Daniel Smith

I started working with Boatshed Guernsey in May 2024.

Having been boating since 12 years old I am still as enthusiastic about it now as I’ve always been. From cruising, fishing, and technical diving I have always been on or around the sea. I hold a number of RYA qualifications from diesel engines, first aid, survival at sea and yacht master etc. I have many years experience of maintaining, building and operating boats. I currently co-own a Rodman 1250. One of the most recent projects I have been lucky enough to be a part of, is the discovery and TV documentary “The Hunt for Lady Olive & The German Submarine”.

What did you do before working with Boatshed?
Since starting Ocean Cobra Limited in 2008 I have carried out Charter work, Yacht Brokerage, Gardiennage and Maintenance Management. I also have over 18 years’ experience in Tactical Operations, Asset Management and Operational Technology Systems with a local utility company, which provided a lot of transferable skills and knowledge to the marine industry.

What attracted you to become part of the Boatshed team?
Having worked in yacht brokerage for many years we wanted to expand our business and choosing a partnership with Boatshed was an obvious choice due to their large market reach, powerful platform and business values which align perfectly with ours.

Are you a motorboater or a sailor?
I have always been a motor boater. Maybe one day I will get the opportunity to start sailing too.

What is your most memorable boating experience?
Discovering the location of the WW1 German Submarine UC18, which had previously been a mystery since it's sinking. I skippered our Rodman 1250 with technical divers to the location and knowing we were the first people to dive and see it for the first time since it had sunk, over 100 years ago, was very special.