Zipper Marine
Zipper Marine is the newest solution to your Great Lakes Yachting needs. Headquartered in Traverse City, Michigan, at Center Pointe Marina, we provide expert service for yachts of any size.
About Us
Zipper Marine is a modern company specializing in traditional sailing and yachting expertise. Founded in 2025, Zipper Marine is owned and operated by Great Lakes Sailing Company, a sailing school and charter company. Great Lakes Sailing Co. has deep roots in the local community with a history of chartering sailing vessels and motor yachts for over 40 years. Zipper Marine continues that legacy of quality and success with a focus on customer satisfaction as we expand our reach across northwest Michigan. Zipper Marine is captained by John Dykhuis-Deely and boasts a crew of skilled, ABYC certified technicians with decades of experience in the engine room, and on the water.
Our Team:
Dave Skibowski
Dave is our fearless leader and head mechanic. An avid sailor, master mechanic, and skilled craftsman. Dave has over 30 years of experience working with sailboats and a lifetime of experience working on engines. Dave is an ABYC Certified Technician.
Jake Pointon
A graduate of the Landing School, Jake is a maestro when it comes to anything fiberglass. In addition to his education, he boasts over 10 years of experience as a rigger. Jake is also an ABYC Certified Technician.
Joe Left
With over a decade of experience working as an engineer in some of the most remote places on the planet, Joe brings a unique set of skills to the table. Specializing in engine repair and electronics, Joe is a dynamo in the engine room.
Dirk Weisbaum
Dirk served in the engine room during his time in the navy. Since then, he has mastered the art of sailing, working as both an educator and mechanic. Dirk has a wealth of knowledge and experience working with production sailboats.
John-Paul Lapp
John-Paul has a diverse background, trained classically as a chef, John-Paul worked in the kitchen for a decade before falling in love with the water. Now he uses those same skills to organize and streamline the back end of our service department.
Zippy
The namesake of the company, Zippy inspires us to work with the speed and focus of a cattle dog on a mission!
John & Brooke Dykhuis-Deely
John and Brooke proudly became the new owners of Great Lakes Sailing Company in the fall of 2025, marking a meaningful transition in the company’s 42-year history. Previously serving as Fleet Manager at GLSC, John brings over 30 years of maritime experience, having sailed tens of thousands of miles across oceans and inland waters around the world. He continues to oversee the day-to-day operations of the charter fleet, sailing school, and service divisions — ensuring the high standards and warm hospitality that guests have come to expect.
Brooke brings a passion for design and a keen eye for customer experience to the company. Her superpower is an exceptional attention to detail — a gift for noticing the small things that make a big difference in how guests feel and how they experience their time with GLSC. Brooke is involved behind the scenes at GLSC and has a career in kitchen and bath design for her “day job”.
