Wake Zone

After an unexpected break, Wake Zone is officially back for Season 2. Life got busy, schedules got chaotic, Capt. Vin had surgery, and the boating season showed absolutely no mercy — but somehow we found our way back behind the microphones. In this episode, we catch everyone up on where we’ve been, what’s been happening behind the scenes, and what we’re looking forward to this season both on and o...

In this episode, Jess and Vin get real about goal-setting—boating style. They share their personal boating goals, explain why those goals matter, and break down real examples of what they want to improve, experience, and achieve on the water. From practical skill goals to big-picture dreams, this conversation is all about getting intentional, staying motivated, and enjoying the journey along the w...

It's the most wonderful time of the year! In this festive episode, we’re diving into the ultimate boater's holiday gift guide . Whether you're shopping for an experienced sailor, a weekend cruiser, or someone who just loves being on the water, we've got the perfect gift ideas for every budget. From high-tech gadgets to cozy apparel, practical tools, and fun accessories, we cover everything a boate...

Pull up a chair and pass the leftovers—it’s our Thanksgiving Water Cooler episode! This week we ditch the agenda and talk about a whole bunch of random stuff, from boating stories and seasonal observations to whatever else happens to come up. It’s laid-back, unscripted, and full of the kind of conversations you’d expect around the water cooler (or dock) during the holidays. Perfect listening while...

It’s getting chilly out there! Captains Jess and Vin talk about what really happens when you hit the water in freezing temps—cold shock, gasping reflex, and how fast things go downhill. Plus, they break down NJ’s cold-weather life jacket law (Nov 1–May 1) and why it’s one rule worth bundling up for.

Grab your dock lines and your appetite — this week, Capt. Jess and Capt. Vinnie are serving up their favorite dock and dine and waterfront restaurants from New Jersey to Ocean City, Maryland , with a few Virginia hot spots sprinkled in. From tiki bars with killer views to marinas with the best crab dip on the coast, we’re spilling our top picks for where to tie up, chow down, and sip something str...

We took the Wake Zone podcast on the road to the Jersey Shore Boat Sale & Expo! 🎙️⚓ Join Capt. Jess and Capt. Vin as we walk the docks, explore the show floor, and chat about the hottest deals, biggest boats, and can’t-miss finds from this year’s event. From special show pricing to gear that caught our eye, we give you a front-row experience of the Expo—no ticket required.

Ever wondered what it’s really like to buy a boat? In this episode, Capt. Jess and Capt. Vin put themselves in the buyer’s shoes and pretend to shop for their dream boat. Joined by Kate Hogan from MarineMax, they walk through the full sales process step by step—from choosing the right vessel to understanding financing, warranties, and what to expect on delivery day. Whether you’re a first-time boa...

The crowds are gone, the water’s calmer, and the best boating days are finally here—welcome to local summer . In this episode, Capt Jess and Capt Vinnie share their favorite parts of this hidden season at the Jersey Shore, from quiet marinas to sunsets that feel like they’re just for you. They’ll also talk about why local summer is the perfect time to invest in yourself on the water—whether that’s...

This week, we’re switching gears! Instead of boating lessons and safety tips, Capt. Jess and Capt. Vinnie are letting their guard down and answering totally random questions. From personal quirks to funny stories and everything in between, you’ll get to know your favorite captains on a more relaxed, behind-the-scenes level. It’s candid, lighthearted, and a perfect chance to see the personalities b...

Hurricane season brings more than just rough weather—it creates dangerous conditions for boaters who aren’t prepared. In this episode, Capt. Vin is back on land and ready to chat. He and Capt. Jess dive into the realities of storms on the water, from sudden squalls to full-blown hurricanes. They share safety strategies, real-world stories, and what every boater should do before, during, and after...

In this episode of Wake Zone , we sit down with our office manager, Cas, to tackle the most common questions about getting certified to operate a boat in New Jersey. From the essentials of the NJ Boating Safety Certificate to the path toward earning your Captain’s License, Cas breaks down what every new and experienced boater needs to know. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your...

In this episode of Wake Zone , Capt. Jess and Capt. Vin dive into the most common injuries boaters face — from slips on slick decks to rope burns, prop mishaps, and docking disasters. We’ll share real-life stories, prevention tips, and safety must-knows to keep your time on the water fun and injury-free. Whether you’re a weekend cruiser or a seasoned skipper, this one’s packed with advice that cou...

Out on the water, knowing the right call to make can save lives. In this episode, we break down the three most important distress and urgency calls – Mayday, Pan Pan, and Securité – what they mean, when to use them, and how to make them correctly over the radio. From true emergencies to important safety broadcasts, we’ll guide you through real-life examples, tips for getting your message heard, an...

The sun is hot, the drinks are cold, and confidence is way too high out on the water. In this episode, Capt. Jess and Capt. Vinnie dive into real-life stories of boaters who let their summertime swagger get the best of them—putting themselves and others in danger. From ignoring no-wake zones to misjudging their own skills (and their boat’s size), we’re breaking down how overconfidence can turn a d...

Kate Hogan from MarineMax drops anchor with us to talk about her journey in the boating industry, the rise of women in marine careers, and how we can all work to get more women on the water. We’re diving into community, confidence, and challenging stereotypes. Don’t miss this inspiring and empowering conversation.

Capt. Jess and Capt. Vinnie dive into Shark Week with wild stories, myth-busting, and real tips for safe boating in shark territory. You’ll laugh, learn, and maybe check over your shoulder next time you’re on anchor.

Think fishing is all patience and peace? Think again. In this episode, we bring on Captain Eric to dive into the wild world of tournament fishing — from monster catches and heartbreak losses to back-at-the-dock chaos. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just here for the stories, this one's packed with adrenaline, strategy, and plenty of laughs.

It’s America’s birthday and we’re celebrating Wake Zone style — on the water! In this episode, Capt. Jess and Capt. Vinnie talk all things 4th of July boating: fireworks, raft-ups, safety tips, and those classic party boat stories that only happen on this holiday. Whether you’re anchoring out to watch the show or dodging the chaos at the boat ramp, we’ve got the do’s, the don’ts, and the downright...

Being the life of the party doesn’t mean risking your life. In this episode, Capt. Jess and Capt. Vinnie break down why the skipper stays sober, how alcohol hits different on the water, and what really happens when the “booze cruise” goes sideways. From stats to real stories—and plenty of sarcasm—we’re setting the record straight: The boat party stays fun, but the captain stays clear-headed.

We’re talking navigation gone wrong—running aground, crossing into restricted zones, and what every boater should know about channel markers. Learn from the mistakes (and laughs) of others! We want you to navigate safely out there after making it through the no Wake Zone.

Welcome aboard! In our first episode, Capt. Jess and Capt. Vinnie dive into the chaos of life on the water - from wild training stories to unfiltered captain truths. It's salty, it's funny, and it's just the beginning. Put your life jacket on, we're getting ready to exit the no Wake Zone.