Capt. Tuuli Messer-Bookman Esq.

I have been a maritime expert witness and consultant since 1998 and have worked with approximately 50 firms on roughly 100 cases, split between defense and plaintiffs. I have testified in both state and federal court. I am available to work worldwide and am flexible on travel charges.

I am a 1986 graduate of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and earned my J.D. in 1995 from the University of San Francisco School of Law. I hold an unlimited tonnage Master’s license, the highest license available to civilian mariners.

I taught professional maritime subjects at California Maritime Academy since 1995 and retired in 2018 as a full professor. As a Professor Emerita, I maintain my relationship with Cal Maritime. I have over 300,000 sea miles serving as a deck officer on oceangoing ships. I have also taught maritime subjects for the U.S. Power Squadron and Cal Maritime’s Extended Learning Department.

As an avid boater, I have owned and operated many sail and power vessels from 8-75 feet. My husband and I currently own a 50’ trawler.

I have three published books:
"Maritime Casualties: Causes and Consequences"
"Close Quarters: A Woman's Guide to Living and Working in Maritime Environments"
"The Master's Handbook on Ship's Business" 3rd ed as well as various articles and papers in maritime periodicals.

My expertise is in Marine Accidents (Recreational/Commercial), Boating Accidents, Rules of the Road, Collisions, Boat Operations, Navigation and Piloting, Boat Handling, Watchstanding, Seamanship, and Maritime Training and License Standards.

Professor Emerita – Marine Transportation Department, California Maritime Academy, 2019
USCG License – Master, Unlimited Tonnage, Upon Oceans
B.S. Marine Transportation – U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, 1986
J.D. – University of San Francisco School of Law, 1995
U.S. Naval Reserve, Lt. Commander, 1986-2006