Slow is Pro

"Where Awareness and Adventure Cross"

Slow is Pro is more than just a motto—it’s a call to action. We continue Stephen Cross' legacy by raising awareness about boating safety and emergency preparedness.

educate.
equip.
empower.
evolve.

Captain Stephen Cross

carrying the legacy, changing the culture

Raising Awareness, Saving Lives

At Slow Is Pro, we believe safer boating begins with three core principles: awareness, preparedness and mentorship. By promoting a culture of caution and mindfulness on the water, we can prevent accidents before they happen. When emergencies do occur, every second counts —  we believe in equipping boaters, crew and supporting response teams with the tools needed to respond quickly and effectively. 

Through the Stephen L. Cross Jr. Scholarship, we invest in the next generation of mariners, supporting their journey toward becoming responsible, respected leaders on the water.

As a fiscally sponsored project of Sea Corps Maritime, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Slow Is Pro is more than a campaign — it’s a growing movement for cultural change in the yachting and boating world. Our mission is to educate, equip and empower marine communities through emergency action sheets, outreach events and strategic partnerships — all with the goal of fostering safer waters for boaters, swimmers, marine life and coastal communities alike.

Elevating Industry Standards

Our Goals - Join the Movement

Destination Specific Action Sheets

At Slow is Pro, we believe that every second counts on the water. Having Emergency Action Sheets readily available in destination specific boating areas can mean the difference between panic and a coordinated response—and ultimately, between life and loss.

Stephen L. Cross Jr. Scholarship

The Stephen L. Cross Jr. Scholarship is awarded to U.S. individuals pursuing careers in the yachting industry who demonstrate a strong commitment to safety, professionalism and environmental stewardship. Individuals like Stephen.

Awareness/Support Response Teams

We plan to support emergency response teams, the teams critical to responding to medical emergencies on the water. We will raise awareness through outreach campaigns, partnerships with industry leaders, local businesses and active engagement at yacht shows.

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get to know him

Captain Stephen L. Cross Jr.

Captain Stephen L. Cross Jr. was a seasoned mariner with a lifelong passion for the sea and over two decades of experience navigating Atlantic and Caribbean waters. The kind of captain who led with both skill and soul. Known for his leadership, professionalism and deep knowledge of marine operations, Captain Cross earned the respect of crew and guests alike. His calm demeanor, attention to safety and commitment to providing exceptional experiences made him a standout in the world of yachting. Check out some words from previous guests, family, industry colleagues and more in the "Share a Story" tab.

Skill and Soul
Heart at the Helm
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a word from our top sponsors

Our Sponsors

Supporting Slow is Pro means standing up for a culture of mindfulness and responsibility on the water. Their mission to educate boaters, reduce speeding, and protect marine life aligns perfectly with our values. We’re committed to ensuring that locals and visitors alike can enjoy our islands safely, respectfully, and sustainably.

Hendos Hideout

White Bay, Jost Van Dyke
In a world that’s constantly rushing, Slow is Pro reminds us to pause, breathe, and make space for meaningful impact. We’re honored to support an organization that uplifts our community and inspires a safer yachting industry.

Mango Media

St. Thomas
A message from Caitie

"Let's change the culture together"

This mission is deeply personal. It was born from unimaginable loss—the tragic passing of my fiancé, Captain Stephen L. Cross Jr., who was struck by a speeding boat in a mooring field. Stephen was a passionate mariner who was a creator of core memories, but also believed that true seamanship meant putting safety first. His favorite saying, “Slow is Pro,” wasn’t just words—it was a way of life. Through this nonprofit, we honor his legacy by promoting safer practices at sea, raising awareness, and ensuring that every mariner returns home safely. Let’s change the culture together—one mindful moment at a time.

Caitie Rosko

CEO, Slow Is Pro

Educate. Equip. Empower.

We are dedicated to fostering a culture of mindfulness and professionalism on the water—where slowing down means protecting lives, preserving our oceans and elevating industry standards. Emergency Action Sheets prepare even the most skilled crews during crisis.