Meet the Captain and First Mate
Welcome aboard! Meet Captain Rick and his trusty first mate Erik, native Rhode Islanders and lifelong best friends who have been reeling in fish and tall tales together since childhood. With their shared passion for fishing and Erik's knack for making everyone laugh, you're guaranteed a fun and memorable day on the water!
Capt. Rick Bellavance
A true Rhode Islander, Rick has saltwater running through his veins. Under the watchful eye of his dad, he set sail on his seafaring journey at the age of 10, navigating Narragansett Bay in his trusty 12-foot wooden skiff, catching shellfish and winter flounder.
Rick's adventure on the high seas didn't stop there. He honed his skills on some of Point Judith's most respected charter boats, earning a quiet yet formidable reputation as a top-notch skipper. In 1994, he proudly earned his U.S.C.G. 100-ton master’s license, a testament to his dedication and expertise.
Today, Rick wears many hats. He's the current President of the Rhode Island Party and Charter Boat Association and has represented Rhode Island on the New England Fishery Management Council since 2016. As a PADI certified Dive Instructor, Rick is just as at home beneath the waves as he is on the bridge or running the cockpit.
With a deep passion for fishing and a knack for creating unforgettable experiences, Captain Rick is dedicated to making every trip with Priority Charters an adventure to remember. Come aboard and let Captain Rick share his love of the ocean and fishing with you!
First Mate Erik
Capt. Rick and Erik have been best friends for 30 years, making them a great team on the water. Erik is laid back and always knows how to keep things fun and entertaining. He stays cool even when the fish are flying over the sides. With Erik's jokes and easygoing nature, every trip is a blast.