I found Steve “Flipper” Boughton in the most unexpected way—through a Gumtree ad. I was looking for someone to help deliver a yacht, and figured I’d ask a few questions. From that very first call, it was clear Steve was operating on an entirely different level. That call became the start of one of the most beautiful friendships I now have. I was looking to buy my first boat, but I had no idea how complex—and risky—the process could be without the right guidance. Steve immediately stepped in, not just as someone with knowledge, but as a genuine buyer’s advocate. Over the following weeks and months, we went through dozens of listings. No matter what I sent him, Steve had sharp, detailed insights—he knew every model, its quirks, its strengths and weaknesses. He could assess a boat’s condition from the way the ad was written and the photos were framed. He gave honest, practical, and experienced advice. Thanks to his guidance, I avoided several bad buys. When it came time to inspect my shortlist, he came with me in person—checking every detail, asking the tough questions, and giving me complete clarity on what I was getting into. We ended up buying a Bounty 35, named Carpe Diem. With Steve’s help, we negotiated a great deal—and I bought the boat with complete confidence. But that was just the beginning. Steve joined me on the delivery sail to Lake Macquarie—my first offshore passage. For over ten hours, he never stopped teaching: navigation, weather, safety, sail handling, mindset. I stepped off that boat not just as a new owner, but as someone who genuinely felt ready to sail. Then came the refit. Carpe Diem needed work—and Steve didn’t just advise, he got stuck in and did it all himself, every single detail. He installed a new anchor winch, electronics, autopilot, solar panels, toilet, soft rigging, list goes on and one. He thought me how to antifoul the hull, helped with fixing issues along the way and more. He always found the smartest, most cost-effective solutions—treating my budget like it was his own. I trusted him completely. Eventually, I sold Carpe Diem at a profit. But more importantly, I walked away with real experience, confidence, and a mentor who changed the way I sail and think. I walked away with a friend.