about ocean performance

Gavin Johnstone, the founder of Ocean Performance, is the driving force behind our motivation to excel, advance, and provide exceptional and innovative solutions to our clients. Having always thought his life path would take him to the sky, it wasn’t until after he graduated from the University of Victoria that he fully realized his passion was for the sea.

Gavin brings over 14 years of hands-on experience in multiple roles within the marine industry. He is a Certified Marine Service Technician (MST), holds current Advanced Electronics and Advanced NMEA 2000 Installer certifications from the National Marine Electronics Association as well as an ABYC Marine Electrical endorsement. Gavin also has professional training in project management and is a certified Garmin, Navico (B&G, B&G H5000 & Simrad) and Airmar technician. Outside of Ocean Performance, Gavin instructs future MST’s through the Quadrant Marine Institute.

His passion for boats extends well beyond his professional life. Sharing a trawler with his father, Gavin has been enjoying exploring thousands of miles along the BC coast. Some of his fondest memories and places include secluded anchorages and hot springs in the Great Bear Rainforest, Desolation Sound and the local Gulf Islands. When not cruising, he has also logged many miles under sail, circumnavigating Vancouver Island and racing in the Caribbean.

Jesse McNeill, the other guy at Ocean Performance, is the marine systems and diesel engine specialist. Having grown up in part at his family property on Ruxton Island, boats have been part of his life since day one.

Jesse fell in love with the marine industry in the summers between semesters of his Bachelors degree and has not worked in any other sector since. Jesse is a ticketed Diesel Engine Mechanic, Marine Service Technician (MST), and holds current Advanced Electronics and Advanced NMEA 2000 Installer certifications from the National Marine Electronics Association. In addition to regular duties, Jesse teaches future MSTs through Quadrant Marine Institute.

In his personal time, Jesse works on his diesel-electric Willard 30 trawler, Toyota Landcruiser and whatever home renovations his wife plans for him. He also finds time to write and perform as much music as possible in various bands on the island.