Ahoy Mates! I am Susan Shipp. I like to introduce myself as a 10th-generation, Native Floridian (a rare species), a Certified Mermaid, and a self-proclaimed Pirate! Honestly, I just love a good adventure!
I’ve had the joy of owning and operating my own tour companies as well as serving as a Tour Director for Premier Alaska Tours and Joshua Expeditions. I’m a proud University of Florida alumna with degrees in Communications (Journalism) and Business (Marketing). Over the years, I’ve mastered the art of seamless logistics – managing hotels, baggage, excursions, and transportation for groups of 15–52 – while keeping travelers entertained with history, culture, and a good dose of humor.
What makes my journey unique is the variety of experiences I bring to the table. I’m a former radio personality and reality show cast member (The Blox, Season 8). I’m also a USCG-licensed Captain, certified SCUBA diver, and yes – a real-life Mermaid! Along the way, I’ve been the creative force behind multiple tour and event companies, including Drunken Pirate Tours, Crystal River Trolley Tours, and Lead Foot City. My passion for community has led me to serve as a leader, festival organizer, and board member for my local Chamber of Commerce, state parks, and national refuges. When I ask, “Arrrghhh you ready for an adventure?,” I truly mean it.
Guests often tell me they appreciate that I make them laugh, teach them something new, and make them feel like they’re part of the story – not just along for the ride. Whether I’m guiding travelers past Alaska’s glaciers, sharing pirate lore in Florida, or helping groups navigate new destinations, I love creating connections and turning every trip into a memory that lasts a lifetime.
When I’m not on the road, you’ll usually find me chasing another kind of adventure – whether it’s SCUBA diving, trail riding, kayaking, hiking, offshore fishing, skimming across the water on an airboat, or tinkering with my vintage Jeep. Family and my deep-rooted heritage are at the center of my life, and I treasure both making memories with loved ones and researching my ancestry. A lifelong learner, I enjoy studying new subjects and earning new certifications, always seeking to grow. I’m also passionate about giving back to the communities I serve through volunteer work, and I proudly serve as the Public Relations Coordinator for a national nonprofit – a role that allows me to extend my impact and make a difference beyond the road.
At the end of the day, I don’t just guide tours; I help write chapters in people’s stories, filled with laughter, learning, and lasting memories. I bring a mix of professional expertise, adventurous energy, and a collaborative spirit to everything I do!
