Rachel, Ember, Randy, Ash, and Doodle Steelman:
We’re the Steelmans—a big, adventurous family with kids (and grandkids!) of all ages. Randy is a builder, boat captain, and jack-of-all-trades; Rachel homeschools, manages our properties, and keeps the family adventures organized. Our home base is in Northern Michigan, and we also co-own Pura Vida Cottage with Rachel’s parents. In 2024–2025, Randy, Rachel, Ember, and Ash took our biggest adventure yet—living aboard our 48-foot boat, Silver Linings, and cruising more than 6,000 miles of America’s Great Loop. Along the way, we fell in love with Punta Gorda, which led us to create Captain’s Retreat in 2026 as our winter escape and a place to share with others. Above all, we love traveling, making memories with our kids and grandkids, and bringing that same family-owned, personal touch to the places we share with our guests.
Follow our adventures on YouTube at Authentic Adventures (@SteelmanAdventures).
Bob and Deb Porter (Pura Vida Cottage co-owners):
Bob and Deb Porter are active retirees, and split their time between Michigan and Arizona. Both are avid readers, and Bob enjoys golfing all year long. Deb likes to hike with her friends, and in the summer, go to the Pura Vida cottage and enjoy the lake on her pontoon inviting guests to join her. Bob and Deb jointly own the Pura Vida cottage with their daughter, Rachel, and son in law, Randy. Together they turned a dilapidated property into a charming and inviting cottage enjoyed by guests who rave that it is a tranquil, clean, and well appointed space.
