Maine Sea Kayaking GuidesMeet Old Quarry's Kayaking Guides & Instructors![]() Michael Daughertyis an ACA Level 3 Coastal Kayaking Instructor. His excursions in the Stonington-Isle au Haut archipelago, as well as extended trips along the Maine coast, the Florida Keys and the Everglades are documented in his blog, Sea Kayak Stonington, and in articles in Sea Kayaker and Ocean Paddler magazines."I am a Registered Maine Guide and have worked at Old Quarry for several years." ~Michael Daugherty
Luke Saindon"I grew up on Deer Isle and have spent my life on or near the water; making the waters around the Island familiar as well as a big part of my life. Old Quarry was my first job after being hired Sophmore year in High School, summer of 2006. I've been coming back between engineering internships for the last six years. By winter I'm a mechanical engineer spending time at the University of Maine, NASA centers and other research and development firms focusing on aerospace propulsion. Being in a technical field has only heightened my appreciation for our natural treasures and always love coming home to show people our beautiful spot in Maine. After taking a guide course with Richard MacDonald in 2009 I was certified as a Maine Sea Kayak Guide in the spring of 2011. Before certification I spent many years as the waterfront assistant, observing and assisting all of Old Quarry's outstanding guides. As a guide I make sure to go at a pace the whole group or family can enjoy, while learning local natural history, exploring island beaches, and maintaining flexibility to explore each group's special interests." ~Luke Saindon
Emily Mueller Wendellis orginally from western North Carolina where she began her adventures in kayaking in a short, tippy whitewater kayak. After a detour out West and a move to Maine, she soon realized that she preferred sea kayaking. Emily became a Registered Maine Sea Kayak Guide in 2002, guiding every summer since except 2010, when she was pregnant with her daughter Lilia Anne. She worked in Bar Harbor guiding for Coastal Kayaking Tours for 5 years, mostly exploring the Porcupines in Frenchman Bay, but also leading multi-day trips beginning in Stonington or Naskeag Harbor, crossing Blue Hill Bay, and ending in Seal Cove on Mount Desert Island. In 2006, she earned her Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of Maine and began teaching fourth grade in Deer Isle. She started guiding tours for Old Quarry Ocean Adventures in the summer of 2007 and soon realized Merchant Row could be the best spot to guide in all of Maine. (There are no cruise ship tenders to dodge and incredible white pocket shell beaches!) If she's not outside in a kayak or taking a hike, you might find her in a yoga class or hula hooping with one of her handmade creations.
Nate Hansonenjoys sharing our unique and dynamic ocean environments with clients, and is eager to help you gain the skills that will add confidence, safety and enjoyment ot all your kayaking! He is certified by the American Canoe Association as a Coastal Kayaking Instructor, and holds the 4-Star Sea Leader Award from the British Canoe Union. He is also a Registered Maine Guide (Sea Kayaking), and is certified in Wilderness First Aid.
Jake Adams, a native of Deer Isle, grew up on the island and has experienced much of what it has to offer. He first met Capt Bill when Bill was a substitute teacher for his 3rd grade class. Now he is a senior at Bates College in Lewiston, ME majoring in American Cultural Studies. Jake has been a Registered Maine Sea Kayak Guide for two years. When he isn't studying or working at Old Quarry Ocean Adventures, Jake spends his free time playing drums and steel pan, volunteering at the Stonington Opera House, mountain biking, and doing everything in his power to keep his motorcycle running. He just returned from a semester abroad in Ghana and is glad to be back in cooler climates. He enjoys sunset paddles and long walks on the beach.
Buddy Chasehas been a licensed Maine Guide for 5 years and working for Old Quarry on the weekends since then. He has been an avid kayaker for 15 years. His day job is as a graphic artist out of Ellsworth, Maine. He has been doing that for many years. In the winter he is on the Maine ski patrol on weekends as well. He loves showing people the sites on the islands, including the eagles and osprey nests, during his trips.
Jessica Naylorgrew up sailing and kayaking on Frenchman's Bay beginning at the age of 12. At age 14 she purchased and restored her first sailboat. Jessica is certified as a U.S. Sailing Small Boat Instructor and Licensed as a Maine Sea Kayak Guide. She has worked for Old Quarry for eight years teaching private sailing lessons and running Old Quarry's sailing schools. When not sailing Jessica can often be spotted guiding kayak trips and loves camping on the islands in the archipelago.When not on the ocean, Jessica finds her way to adventures such as summiting Mount Ranier, trekking in the Himilayas, or competing in triathalons. She is an avid outdoors woman and ready for a safe and exciting adventure. Jessica works with adolescents in the off season as a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She is also currently attending Graduate School at the University of Maine. |
















