About Us
Joe Crespi
Outdoor enthusiast, Joe Crespi moved from his home town of Orlando, FL to the frothy rivers of western North Carolina to earn a B.A. in Wilderness Leadership and Experiential Education from Brevard College. During his time in the mountains he worked as a raft, canoe, and kayak guide for local outfitters on the French Broad and the Nolichucky rivers.
Once he graduated College, Joe moved to Charleston, SC where he worked for Epic Kayaks Inc. in sales, marketing, event planning, and customer support. Soon after, Joe earned his Level 3 ACA Coastal Kayak Instructor Certification, his rolling instructor endorsement, and his Wilderness First Responder(WFR) certification.
Now in Atlantic Beach, he is the organizer of a local paddling Meetup group (The Jacksonville Kayaking Meetup Group), which has grown through his hard work and dedication to Jacksonville’s local paddling community. With over 12 years of experience, he offers his expertise in kayak instruction and safety to meet up members and clients of First Coast Outfitters.
What Our Customers Say…
“Truly I can’t say enough about how great the guides at First Coast Outfitters are! They give experiences of a lifetime! Joe and Rachel, and all the guides do a fantastic job…It’s great to have people like this representing our paddling community in North Florida!”
—Rick S.
“Joe and Rachel, Thanks for coming to the Mississippi Gulf Coast and training our staff to be efficient and safe guides! You guys did a great job, and we can’t wait to have you guys back again next year!!”
—Damien R.
“Perfect location to learn the fundementals of bracing and rolling from two first-class instructors. Every kayaker should have these techniques in their paddling toolbox for safety security and…fun! Thanks to Joe and Rachel for a super weekend in the pool.”
—Herb G.
“I really enjoyed this class — it was a great opportunity to get acquainted with my new kayak in safe water. Joe and Rachel are such great teachers — they make you actually look forward to falling out of the boat (again and again).”
—Jerilyn D.
“This was such an outstanding trip! Joe you did a fantastic job of putting on a truly wonderful and unbelieveable experience for all that were able to make it… The water so pretty and clear, all of the wildlife…the weather was perfect…It just couldn’t have been any better of a trip! This is one that is a “must do it again”!”
—Peter C.
“Our family had an amazing time on the First Coast Outfitters Family Tour!! Rachel was great with the kids and an incredible story teller with a wealth of historical knowledge about the area…This trip was a year ago, and they are still talking about it!! We can’t wait to come back to Jacksonville, and take on the next adventure FCO will have planned for us!!”
—Eric M.