India, June 17 -- Seafarers are often seen as quiet, thoughtful people-those who've learned life lessons from the ocean that can't be taught in a classroom. Terry Birles is one of them. "Big yachts are impressive," he says, "but the real magic of the sea is in the stories, the traditions, and the knowledge passed down through generations."

Birles is a maritime expert and cultural preservationist who believes that today's fast-paced industry still has room for old wisdom. While others focus on speed, automation, and profit, Birles is working to connect cultural heritage with sustainable tourism, especially in coastal communities.

Unlike many of his peers, Birles spends his time gathering maritime stories, recording ship repair techniques...