Maritime Expertise

Areas of Specialization

Captain Ron Short offers decades of experience navigating complex vessel operations and maritime law challenges.

ISM / SMS Implementation

Captain Ron supports vessel owners and managers with maintaining in placed ISM Code-compliant Safety Management Systems (SMS) that improve operational safety, crew accountability, and audit performance.

Small Passenger Vessel Compliance

Captain Ron guides small vessel operators through U.S. Coast Guard requirements, offering hands-on support in training, licensing, and inspection prep to maintain safe, legal operations for public-facing marine services.

Scientific Research Vessels

With extensive experience in marine research coordination, Captain Ron ensures safe execution of oceanographic missions by facilitating agency collaboration, minimizing risk, and supporting vessel readiness and compliance.

Recreational Charter Sport Vessels

Captain Ron helps sport fishing, sport diving leisure charter operators implement effective safety practices, manage guest liability, and meet all legal and licensing standards for smooth, incident-free commercial recreation trips.

USCG-Inspected Vessels

Captain Ron prepares commercial passenger vessel operators for successful Coast Guard inspections by streamlining compliance documentation, crew procedures, and ongoing safety management practices for dependable operation.

Maritime Expertise for Legal Cases

Captain Ron provides technical clarity in maritime legal disputes by delivering objective, experience-backed insights into vessel operations, safety procedures, and regulatory standards to support litigation efforts.

Litigation Support

Combining four decades of maritime command experience with legal insight, Captain Ron offers expert testimony, case consultation, and detailed analysis for attorneys managing complex marine-related litigation.

Research Risk Analysis

Captain Ron helps scientific teams identify and reduce operational risks during marine research missions by providing strategic planning, crew coordination, and safety evaluations in remote and high-stakes environments.

My Recommendations

— Heroic Maritime Rescue & Rapid Response

Your alertness and professionalism were directly responsible for the rapid recovery and medical care of two men from the frigid waters near the Columbia River. Despite the tragic loss of one, you can be justifiably proud for saving a life. Your dedication and resourcefulness make the sea a safer place. Read in Full

Captain M.P. Farrell

— U.S. Coast Guard

— Emergency Readiness Leadership

Your efforts to improve the firefighting and rescue skills of the crew through collaborative drills with local fire departments have significantly enhanced their ability to respond effectively in emergencies. Your leadership and initiative are commendable. Read in Full

Richard Muller

— Marine Superintendent

— Master Navigator with Unmatched Professionalism

Ron is a self-starter, energetic, and capable of approaching tasks with enthusiasm through to their conclusion. His navigational ability and boat handling skills are outstanding, and his professionalism is unmatched. Read in Full

Dale Pihlman

— Owner/Manager

— Elite Shiphandling & Operational Precision

I was impressed with Ron’s expert shiphandling and the meticulous care he gave to the vessels he captained. His working knowledge of maritime rules and his professionalism make him an asset to any maritime operation. Read in Full

James R. Stith, Chief Mate

— Alaska Marine Highway System

— Commanding Leadership in Oceanographic Research

Ron Short’s career as captain of the research vessel Point Sur showcases his dedication to maritime research and safety. His ability to manage advanced equipment and lead a crew of eight while accommodating researchers highlights his exceptional leadership and expertise. Read in Full

Silas Spaeth

— Journalist

— U.S. Coast Guard–Certified Maritime Training Authority

We have evaluated Mr. Short’s qualifications and granted approval for him to teach Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities, Personal Survival Techniques, and Basic Fire Fighting courses. His expertise and professionalism are evident in his work. Read in Full