First Mate Cookie

My name is Cookie, and I have the honor of serving as the First Mate at By-La SEA. Working alongside Paul, my loving partner, has been a rewarding journey both on land and at sea. Paul is not only an exceptional skipper but also a patient teacher, making every voyage an enriching experience. 

I was born in Ecuador to a wonderful Ecuadorian mother and an adventurous Swiss father, who instilled in me a love for travel from a young age. While my life didn’t initially revolve around sailing, I was fortunate to join my father, who is also a sailor, on a few memorable sailing excursions, where I caught glimpses of the incredible world that unfolds on the water 

I have been an RN for over 20 years and love it. It has helped me develop the ability to adjust and react to new situations. I have always enjoyed being around and meeting new people. While cruising, we  meet people from all around the world and it's wonderful to expand our connections and share our experiences.

Beyond the waves, I am committed to giving back. In my leisure time, I actively support animal rescues by fostering, and organizing Hops for Hounds- a unique initiative combining pet adoptions with local breweries. And speaking of passion, dancing has been a filelong love. From performing in Carnegie Hall to teaching belly dance and Zumba, the rhythm of dance inspires my life on and off the water. Today, you might even find me dancing on the bow and stern of our catamaran!

At By-La Sea, we invite you to join us in escaping the ordinary and embracing the extraordinary- on the water, under the stars, and with the rhythm of the waves.