Dauntless: It’s More Than the Name

People often get creative when naming their boats, but the name “Dauntless” is more about meaning than creativity.

If you search for boats named Dauntless, you’ll find plenty—it’s not a unique name by any means. In fact, a U.S. Coast Guard cutter bears the name, and Boston Whaler has an entire product line called Dauntless. I wouldn’t be surprised if someone has a Boston Whaler Dauntless named Dauntless just for the laugh.

But for this Dauntless, the name is only part of the story.

First, let’s break down the meaning. Dauntless means fearless, unshaken by challenges, which is why it’s a popular boat name. It speaks to courage and the strength needed to conquer the sea, making it feel powerful, even badass. And who wouldn’t want their boat to carry that energy?

For me, naming this boat Dauntless isn’t about showing off. It represents the courage it took to make a major life change—one that required me to leave behind a comfortable but unfulfilling life. After years in a high-paying job, a stagnant marriage, and feeling emotionally drained, I needed a change. The name Dauntless reflects the bravery it took to sell everything, walk away, and chart a new course without a set plan. It’s not about fearlessness; it’s about staying true to your path, even when it gets hard.

Years later, I’m happier than I’ve been in a long time. What keeps me going is staying aligned with my love for the water and doing work that lets me use my natural gifts. When you’re doing what you love, work doesn’t feel like work anymore.

The Dauntless isn’t just a name about facing the unknown—it’s about staying the course, no matter what obstacles arise.

Now, onto the artwork.

The Illustration

The Illustration

The name Dauntless came from a major life change, but it’s the artwork that completes the picture. It took months to find the right artist who could bring my vision to life. Each element in the design has a purpose:

The mermaid

She symbolizes feminine strength and resilience, a perfect fit for a woman-run boat. There’s also a long tradition of feminine imagery with boats, but in this case, she represents all of us—powerful, resilient, and ready to face the seas.

By the way – Have you ever wondered why boats are referred to as “she?” You can read more on that here. 

The skeleton

A skeleton reflects the core of who you are, the unchanging part of you that drives you forward—or holds you back. In this design, it’s exposed, symbolizing vulnerability and authenticity. It’s a reminder to let go of fear and be true to yourself.

Read this Forbes article about how “putting yourself out there,” living a bit outside your comfort zone, helps you move forward.

The chain

In boating, chain is essential for anchoring, but here, the chain shackling the mermaid’s wrists is broken. She’s no longer held back or weighed down. Life can feel safe when we’re anchored in place, sometimes it’s necessary, but we can’t move forward unless we break free.

“A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.”
– Franklin D. Roosevelt

The lantern

Lanterns illuminate the way, and this one represents leading yourself and others. You’re the one who lights your path. Too many people wait for the light at the end of the tunnel, but in reality, you hold the lantern—you decide the direction.

In the end, Dauntless is about more than just a name or a life change. It’s a symbol of what it means to create the life you want, face your fears, and keep moving forward, even when it’s tough.

So live fearless my friends, and…