John Conniff's passion and enthusiasm for the sea took an official turn shortly after graduating from Loyola Marymount University with a BA in English Literature. After a short stint with a consulting firm John moved to San Diego and began work with a local sportfishing operation. He took to the aquatic life quickly, and before long was an engineer and licensed captain on a premier long range vessel. This gave him the opportunity to hone his skills fishing such legendary spots as the Revilla Gigedos, Clipperton Island and Panama.
While fishing provided the impetus for John's desire to captain a vessel of his own, so too did his love of the ocean. A strong surfing background and a desire to explore the more remote areas of the pacific coast played an important role in the decision to acquire such a versatile vessel as the Islander. With each passing trip it has become apparent to John that the possibilities for exploration, enjoyment and adventure along this coast are truly endless.