Meet the family team behind Plymouth Pilots
About us
Neil Humphrey
Managing Director/Owner
Neil is our Managing Director, lead boat builder, technical expert, and chief tea maker. With a career in the marine industry dating back to 1999, he has amassed extensive knowledge of boat operation and manufacture. His expertise is further reinforced by over 20 years of dedicated service with the RNLI.
Growing up in Pevensey Bay, Eastbourne, Neil developed a lifelong passion for the water—something that naturally led him to a career in boatbuilding. When he’s not in the workshop crafting new vessels, tackling complex challenges, or carrying out refits, he’s out on the water in another capacity: serving as a Coxswain and ILB Helmsman for the Plymouth Lifeboat Crew.
A keen swimmer and outdoor enthusiast, Neil enjoys nothing more than a beach trip or boat outing with his young family.
Lauren Humphrey
Position: Office & Accounts Manager
Lauren is the organisational backbone of Plymouth Pilots, ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for precision, she works closely with the team in the workshop to keep operations on track.
If you request a brochure or send an enquiry, Lauren will be your first point of contact—ready to provide all the information you need with efficiency and a friendly touch. She’s the welcoming voice at the other end of the line, making sure every interaction with Plymouth Pilots gets off to the best start. She also has the important job of keeping Neil, her other half, in check!
Beyond Plymouth Pilots, Lauren channels her love of nature, the sea, and creativity into Sugarbush UK, her own natural cosmetics business. Crafting luxurious, skin-loving products from pure, sustainable ingredients, she brings the same level of dedication and attention to detail to her entrepreneurial venture. When the workday ends, you’ll likely find Lauren by the water, embracing all that the sea has to offer—especially when it involves quality time with family.
Dan Stone
Position: Boat Builder & Laminator
Dan is the longest-standing member of the Plymouth Pilots team, having joined in 2017. With years of hands-on experience, he plays a key role in every stage of boat construction—from laying up the hull to installing engines and adding the final touches that make each vessel something to be proud of. His meticulous craftsmanship and problem-solving skills ensure that every boat leaving the workshop meets the highest standards.
Outside of work, Dan is a dedicated Plymouth Argyle supporter. A natural problem-solver with a practical mindset, he enjoys tackling DIY projects at home and tinkering with cars in his spare time. Life is never dull with his energetic Weimaraner keeping him on his toes!