Ronnie Caldwell

Captain Ronnie Caldwell is a U.S. Coast Guard licensed Master Captain who was born and raised around Lake Norman, where his love for the water began at just three years old riding aboard his grandmother’s old pontoon boat. Growing up around the lake, water has always been a part of his life — from spending his younger years water skiing to now captaining hundreds of trips each year on Lake Norman.

Ronnie has extensive experience operating charter vessels, including serving as captain aboard the largest charter boat Lake Norman ever had, formerly known as the Naples Princess and later the Lady of the Lake. His lifelong connection to the water, combined with his passion for people and education, makes him a natural fit for the Catawba Riverkeeper Floating Classroom.

In addition to his maritime background, Ronnie and his wife previously owned and operated a successful environmental science/services company for 16 years. Today, he combines his love for the lake, environmental stewardship, and public outreach by helping educate students and guests about the importance of protecting the Catawba River Basin and Lake Norman.

He currently resides on Lake Norman with his wife and remains passionate about sharing the beauty, history, and environmental importance of the waters he has called home his entire life.