2026 Spring Speaker Series: Mark and Lisa Rinaman

“The Amazing Amara Zee”

Synopsis: The Amara Zee is an unusual ship in design and purpose. Modeled after the shallow draft Thames River sailing barges, with a specially built stage amidship, it has traveled the world as a floating performing arts venue. Mark and Lisa Rinaman will share how the Amara Zee will celebrate Putnam County’s rich blend of history, restaurants, music, local food scene, with the community leaders along the banks of the St. Johns. 

Bios: Captain Mark Rinaman—is a retired Colonel after serving 30 years in the Florida National Guard and Army Reserves. He has served as President of the national Caravan Stage Company for more than 30 years. He is also a chemical engineer with the U.S. Corps of Engineers. 

Lisa Rinaman is the St. Johns Riverkeeper and connected with Mark and the Amara Zee in 2002 while working for the City of Jacksonville. She helped secure support and berthing space for the ship’s first two visits to Jacksonville. Now, she is connecting community science an river enthusiasts through her work and river tours on the Amara Zee.

Mark and Lisa live in Jacksonville, Florida and are raising their two sons in Historic Springfield on the St. Johns River.