Purelyblu

CAPTAIN BRAD

North Carolina native Captain Brad Needham brings a lifetime of sailing experience and technical expertise to PURELYBLU, the luxurious Lagoon 50. Brad’s passion for sailing began in childhood, learning to handle the family’s 12’ O’day Widgeon by age ten and honing his skills through years of summer sailing camps. By 16, he was working as a sailing instructor, later continuing to teach at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington.

Brad’s background includes a degree in mechanical engineering from N.C. State University, giving him a unique understanding of vessel systems. His diverse career path has taken him from hospitality roles to engineering work across the U.S. and even Turkmenistan. However, his love for the water brought him back to the sea, starting with charter fishing boats in Alaska and leading to his captain’s license.

With over 40,000 nautical miles of experience, including Inside Passage deliveries, Brad combines technical expertise with a passion for sharing the joy of sailing. His engaging personality and dedication to creating memorable experiences make him an exceptional captain for your charter aboard PURELYBLU.

#SailingAdventure #Lagoon50 

CHEF ZOE

Hailing from Minnesota, the land of 10,000 lakes, Chef Zoe brings a love for the water and a passion for fine food to PURELYBLU. Her culinary journey began with her very first bite of solid food—fresh focaccia from her aunt and uncle’s Italian restaurant. Inspired by her family’s deep ties to the restaurant industry and her mother’s creative approach in the kitchen, Zoe developed a lifelong love for cooking and hospitality.

Zoe’s professional background is as diverse as her culinary artistry. Raised in her family’s community newspaper business, she gained valuable experience in customer service, management, and organization—skills that shine in her role as chef and mate aboard PURELYBLU. A fine arts degree further enhances her ability to create colorful and inviting meal presentations, blending art and flavor in every dish.

Her international travels, from backpacking in South America to exploring Italy and France, have shaped her cooking style, which focuses on fresh, vibrant, and locally inspired ingredients. After transitioning from the newspaper business, Zoe drove to Alaska sight unseen, where she discovered her calling on the water. With over 10,000 nautical miles logged and a recently earned captain’s license, she brings a wealth of experience and a continued love for life at sea.

Zoe and Captain Brad met in Alaska and have worked together on charter boats for over seven years. Their shared love for the ocean, food, and creating joyful experiences makes them an exceptional team aboard PURELYBLU.

#CulinaryExperience #Lagoon50 #H2oluxuryyachts