SEA Stories #2: Jetsada Johnson
Jetsada Johnson, is currently a Junior studying Biology and Chinese Languages at the University of the Pacific. He began sailing with SEA in their mini camp, went on to the basic program, and then became an instructor and finally a Head Counselor.
Jet’s love for sailing was sparked at a young age, inspired by his father, a seasoned sailor who had sailed an old decrepit 50 footer between St Thomas and St John’s islands in the Caribbean in the mid 70s, then up and down the coast out of LA and SF Bay. In 1984 he sailed from SF to the Marquises, then Tuamotu and Tahiti then on to Samoa. When Jet was young, he had a chance to join his father on a trip through the Andaman Sea off the coast of Thailand, Andaman Sea.
Hearing his stories, and watching his dad navigate vast waters, Jet couldn’t help but dream of sailing adventures of his own. When his dad enrolled him in Sailing Education Adventures (SEA), the stage was set for a journey that would shape Jet’s life. What began as a summer activity to learn the basics of sailing quickly became a passion.
The gentle lapping of waves, the tug of the wind in the sails, and the friendships of the SEA community captivated Jet. Year after year, he returned to SEA, growing not only in skill but also in confidence and character.
Jet’s early days at SEA were filled with excitement and discovery. From learning to rig a boat to mastering sailing techniques like tacking and jibing, he quickly embraced the physical and mental demands of the sport. He still remembers the thrill—and terror—of his first boat tipping in strong winds. “It felt like everything was happening at once, but I learned to stay calm, think clearly, and solve the problem,” Jet recalls. Those moments instilled a sense of resilience that has carried over into all aspects of his life.
Jet’s early days at SEA were filled with excitement and discovery. From learning to rig a boat to mastering sailing techniques like tacking and jibing, he quickly embraced the physical and mental demands of the sport. He still remembers the thrill—and terror—of his first boat tipping in strong winds. “It felt like everything was happening at once, but I learned to stay calm, think clearly, and solve the problem,” Jet recalls. Those moments instilled a sense of resilience that has carried over into all aspects of his life.
As Jet matured, so did his role at SEA. By his teenage years, he had become a junior counselor, helping younger sailors navigate their own first experiences on the water. Teaching others was both challenging and rewarding. “It was amazing to watch kids go from being nervous beginners to sailing their own boats,” he says. “Some of them even started teaching their families, and knowing I played a part in that was incredible.”
But it wasn’t just technical skills that Jet honed at SEA. The labor-intensive work of maintaining boats—hoisting sails, cleaning hulls, and organizing equipment—taught him the value of hard work. He also became more outgoing, learning how to communicate effectively and build connections with his peers and campers. The friendships he formed at SEA remain some of his strongest, built on shared challenges and triumphs.
Now a college student at the University of the Pacific (UOP), Jet is studying biology with dreams of furthering his education overseas. Balancing academics and his passion for sailing, Jet works three jobs on campus, a testament to the work ethic he developed through SEA. “Sailing taught me discipline and determination,” he explains. “If I can handle a boat in rough waters, I can handle a busy schedule.”
Looking back, Jet credits SEA for shaping him into the person he is today. The lessons of teamwork, perseverance, and leadership have carried over into every facet of his life. The joy of teaching others continues to inspire him and he hopes to continue to mentor young sailors just as he was mentored.
Jet’s dreams extend beyond the classroom and campus. He envisions owning his own boat and sailing around the world, following in his father’s wake. “I want to see the world the way my dad did—through the eyes of a sailor,” he says. The idea of charting his own course, exploring uncharted waters, and embracing the freedom of the open sea fills him with excitement.
Sailing Education Adventures gave Jet more than a skill—it gave him a way of life. Through SEA, he discovered his passion, built lifelong friendships, and grew into a confident and capable leader. Whether he’s steering a boat or balancing his busy college life, Jet carries the lessons of SEA with him.“One day, I’ll have my own boat,” he says, a determined smile on his face. “And I’ll sail to places I’ve only dreamed of, just like my dad did. It all started with SEA, and for that, I’ll always be grateful.”
