MEET THE CREW

Your cruise will begin with our friendly and knowledgeable staff. From our United States Coast Guard Certified Captains and our United States Coast Guard trained crew and our support staff, we welcome you on board Erie Canal Cruises!

We will do our best to provide you a safe and comfortable cruise! Our Captains and Crew perform various functions before, during and after our cruises. Feel free to ask questions about the operation of the vessel, the Locks on the Erie Canal, or about anything you encounter on our cruises. We are hopeful that your time with us is enjoyable, informative and fun!

USCG Captain Jerry Gertz, owner

Captain Jerry is the owner of Erie Canal Cruises Inc. He founded the company in 2003. Previously he and his wife Kimberly owned and operated Anticipation Entertainment Yachts in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, retiring from that business in 1999. They began cruising on their 51 foot Island Gypsy Trawler. On a “great circle cruise” around the eastern United States, they traveled on the Erie Canal. Immediately drawn to the history and scenery, they started to ponder a new venture. While cruising through Herkimer, they saw a visitor center under construction, and opportunity knocked. Capatin Jerry has enjoyed building a fantastic team of professionals that share the passion for this amazing waterway.

USCG Captain Dave

Captain Dave has been a Captain for as long as he can remember. He owns and operates a tug, and has traveled the Erie Canal extensively over the years, as well as the Hudson River and New York harbor.

Captain Dave enjoys sharing the wonder and amazement of visitors who learn so much about the Erie Canal on a 90 minute cruise!

Captain Kari

Captain Kari is in her fifth season with Erie Canal Cruises. She is one of only a few female Captains currently working a commercial vessel on the Erie Canal! Kari has a great story going from a Mate to a Captain, ask her about it when she is at the helm!

Captain Kari loves discussing the operation of the lock and the vessel with passengers.

Dean
First Mate

Dean is in his first season with Erie Canal Cruises. He welcomes passengers on board and assists the Captain with lock throughs and docking.

Dean loves being on the water and spends a lot of time on the Erie Canal. He takes his own boat to work everyday!

Mike
First Mate

Mike is in his first season with Erie Canal Cruises. He welcomes passengers on board and assists the Captain with lock throughs and docking.

Mike loves being on the water and enjoys discussing the operation of the vessel with passengers.