🧭 Brooke Carleton – First Mate, Sail Libra
Born and raised in New York, Brooke Carleton grew up sailing the waters of Long Island Sound with her family — weekends and summers spent trimming sails, reading the wind, and learning the rhythm of the sea. That early connection to sailing never faded — it deepened and eventually guided her toward a life at sea.
She began volunteering at the South Street Seaport Museum in NYC, where her talent, reliability, and hands-on dedication quickly earned her a paid role — and awards recognizing her outstanding contributions. From classic schooners to heritage vessels, Brooke proved she could handle anything the dock — or the water — could throw her way.
Her journey with Sail Libra began as a client, looking to test herself offshore on a passage from St. Thomas to Grenada. What followed was a natural progression: another trip, then volunteering for maintenance projects (including replacing the crew head — not glamorous, but she tackled it with trademark steadiness and good humor). When Libra made her way to the Northeast, Brooke was never far, often showing up on short notice to lend a hand — tools in one hand, coffee in the other.
Today, Brooke serves as Libra’s full-time First Mate, and her presence defines the experience onboard.
⚓ What She Brings Aboard
Brooke wears many hats — and none of them sit idle. She’s mechanically sharp, able to rebuild fuel systems, trace electrical faults, or go aloft to inspect rigging. She’s also the steady force behind much of Libra’s preventive care — keeping the boat polished, maintained, and mission-ready.
When something breaks underway — and it always does — Brooke isn’t just part of the solution, she’s usually leading the brainstorm. From building a makeshift oil cooler offshore to troubleshooting systems in tough conditions, she brings resourcefulness and calm under pressure.
And then there’s the galley. Brooke regularly turns out meals for eight in a rocking boat, in between managing sails, teaching winch handling, and helping clients with their logbooks. Her meals are as memorable as her leadership — a rare balance of comfort and capability.
🌊 Her Style as First Mate
Brooke’s approach to leadership is direct, kind, and rooted in safety. She’s the first to welcome new sailors aboard, walk them through the layout, explain the systems, and make sure every person — no matter their experience — feels at home.
She takes pride in building confidence, not just competence. Whether she’s coaching someone through a night watch or showing them how to reef for the first time, Brooke creates space for growth without pressure.
🧵 Beyond the Boat
When she’s not offshore, Brooke finds balance through skiing and quilting — yes, quilting. She’s a skilled maker, and some of her handcrafted quilts live aboard Libra. Travel for her often revolves around water: sailing in Italy, ferry-hopping through Denmark, or simply finding the next harbor to explore.
Brooke’s passion for the sea runs deep. She doesn’t just help Libra move forward — she helps every sailor aboard do the same.
Brooke Carleton – First Mate
Sailor. Fixer. Galley ace. Brooke grew up sailing Long Island Sound and now helps run the show aboard Libra — from mechanical repairs to mentoring new crew.
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