Introducing the person behind Tortuga Marine Services: James Alexander Lowe.
Starting from a love for classic motorbikes, which I restored and worked on from a young age, this gave me the skills that led me to getting a MA in Sculpture from Winchester School of Art, where I developed my techniques with materials such as metal and wood. Moving on from university, I trained in education to teach Fine Art and Graphic Design, and after 9 years of working in the sector, I decided to move from the stresses of education to working within the residential building trade. Since then I’ve been developing a wide range of skills, and increasing my river knowledge. This includes training as a lock and weir keeper with the Environment Agency and spending much of my younger life working on dolphin tours and fishing vessels in New Zealand.
For the past ten years, I have lived on the water and have come to have a solid understanding of what a good balance of modern day comforts and being environmentally friendly requires in this lifestyle. Over time I’ve been increasing my green credentials for offgrid living and travelling as a liveaboard boater, trying various methods such as water filtration systems and renewable energy sources.
I formed Tortuga to help others to access the inland waterways and enjoy them at any budget. Allowing as many people as possible to experience the hidden treasures of the UK canal network and the outstanding natural beauty of its river systems. So whatever your project is a weekend getaway, a full-time liveaboard or a bespoke business boat, we are happy to help you achieve your goals.