Leader and Follower Relationships at Sail Caribbean

During my time at Sail Caribbean thus far, I have experienced many different types of leader/follower relationships. The organization is comprised of different fleets and programs and within these fleets there is a strict hierarchical organizational structure. Within this structure there are program directors, fleet captains, provisions managers, captains, mates, and interns (called Mates-In-Training). Program directors and fleet captains remain at the top of the power structure because they are responsible for the wellbeing of all of the students and all of the boats. Provisions managers, captains, mates, and interns fall behind them. Additionally, Mike Liese, the owner and director of Sail Caribbean and Sail Caribbean Divers, is at the top of the power structure, and also the go-to man for both big and little decisions. I believe that this is really crucial to the success of Sail Caribbean because while there are differences and distance between the different fleets and programs, Mike serves as a source of continuity and a great resource for everyone involved.

Leader and follower relationships are particularly important at Sail Caribbean due to the nature of the program. Sailing, diving, and living in a tropical climate can at times be very dangerous. It is important to have a strong power hierarchy not only for decision making but also for medical scenarios and knowledge. Without trust and respect from everyone involved, it would be impossible to run a program like Sail Caribbean. It is crucial that everyone involved in the company can be a leader, but it is also crucial that everyone in the company can be a follower. Without the give and take that I believe makes Sail Caribbean special, we would not be able to foster such a strong learning, growing, and changing environment.