Capt. Darby Hodges is the founder and principal consultant of Hodges Maritime Compliance, LLC. He is a licensed Master with over two decades of experience in the maritime industry, including service aboard ocean-going tugs, ship-assist vessels, and vessels engaged in the transportation of oil and petroleum products.

Capt. Hodges began his seagoing career in the United States Coast Guard, where he developed a strong foundation in maritime safety, regulatory compliance, and operational discipline. He later transitioned into the commercial towing industry, serving as captain aboard vessels operating in bulk transportation, ship assist, and the oil transportation sector, one of the most highly regulated segments of the maritime industry.

He holds a Master 1600 GRT / 3000 ITC Oceans license and a Master of Towing Vessels (Oceans) endorsement, with extensive hands-on experience operating under ISM and Subchapter M requirements. His background includes direct involvement in Coast Guard inspections, internal audits, and third-party reviews while managing vessels, crews, schedules, and safety responsibilities in high-risk, compliance-driven operations.

As a former vessel captain who has spent years on the other side of the inspection table, Capt. Hodges understands the pressures captains and crews face during audits and inspections. That perspective shapes a practical, respectful approach to compliance—focused on clarity, real-world application, and mutual professional respect.

Rather than treating compliance as a paperwork exercise, his work emphasizes helping captains and crews understand why requirements exist and how to implement them effectively onboard in support of safe, efficient operations.