Your Crew
CAPTAIN Tyler Boruff & CHEF Katie Saunders & MATE Fabian Thomas
Rotation | Captain Tyler + Captain Shawn
Our captains follow a four-on, four-off rotation schedule, which balances their professional duties with personal time. This structure not only allows our veteran captains to cherish quality moments with their families and pursue personal growth but also ensures they return to their roles rejuvenated and committed to our Ohana values.
The rotation schedule currently begins on the 15th of each month, though this may be subject to change. For the most up-to-date information on who will be working during your charter please inquire.
2025: Jan-March, Shawn | March-July, Tyler | July-Nov, Shawn | Nov-Dec, Tyler
2026: Jan-March, Tyler | March-July, Shawn | July-Nov, Tyler | Nov-March 2027, Shawn
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Captain | Tyler Boruff
Tyler is always on the move and ready for an adventure. He is a man of many hobbies and easily relates to others. He grew up fishing, boating, wake-boarding and water-skiing. When he was ten he sailed for the first time and he quickly became hooked. In college, he worked as a wind surfing and scuba instructor. His passion for being on the water followed him to the East Coast where he owned fishing boats and served as a first mate/instructor on several dive boats.
Tyler is an outdoors-man; whether it’s hunting or backpacking in the mountains of North Carolina, where he calls home, cave diving in North Florida or free diving in the Keys. He satisfies his land-based tendencies by hiking around on the islands and finding the best jumping spots to plunge into the ocean. On the water, he enjoys throwing out a line or diving for lobsters in the USVI and in the BVI he enjoys kite boarding. In the water, he is an avid free diver and exceptional at fish identification.
He is no stranger to hospitality. Tyler has years of experience in guest service management and is even a licensed bartender. As your captain, Tyler will make sure you have a fun, safe time on Ohana.
He is dedicated to helping his guests create unique memories. Tyler will work with you to make sure your trip is full of destinations and adventures that fulfill your island vacation bucket list.
Tyler's Charter Experience | 120+ Charter weeks
Virgin Islands (USVI, BVI), Spanish Islands (Puerto Rico), South America (Aruba, Bonaire), USA East Coast (FL, SC, NC, MD), Southern Caribbean, Mediterranean Sea (Spain, France, Italy), North Sea (Norway)
Tyler's Crossing/Delivery Experience | 40,000+ NM Offshore
Atlantic Ocean Crossing x3, Caribbean Sea, Mediterranean Sea, Straits of Gibraltar, South America, Chesapeake Bay, USA Eastern Coast, Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Africa, Poland (Sunreef Factory Build/Sea Trials), Bay of Biscay, Mediterranean Sea
Tyler's Qualifications:
—Yachting—
Master 200 GT Oceans Captain's License | USCG
Endorsements: STCW II/3, Sailing, Towing
Medical Persons in Charge (MED PIC) | USCG
Qualified Member of the Engine Department - Oiler (QMED) | USCG
First Aid + CPR, AED, O2 Administration | USCG
—Water Safety + Scuba Diving—
First Aid + CPR, O2 Administration Instructor | American Red Cross
Lifeguard, Beach | American Red Cross
Scuba Diving Course Director | NAUI #54354 L
Scuba Diving Gold Level Instructor | SSI #65840
Scuba Technical Diving Instructor | TDI #21125
Emergency First Responder Instructor | PADI
Cylinder Hazmat + Fill Station Operations | PSI-PCI
Service Tech | Scuba Pro
Specialized Training: Freediving, Lobstering/Spearfishing, Full Cave Diver (GUE), Water Sports
—Hospitality—
Bartending License | American Bartenders' Association
—Industry Awards + Achievements—
Best Crew In Show 2017 | USVI VIPCA Charter Yacht Show
Best In Show (Under 50') 2017 | USVI VIPCA Charter Yacht Show
—Wellness—
Interests: Triathlons, IronMan Athlete, Cycling, Trail Running, Deep Sea Fishing
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Captain | Shawn Hardesty
Shawn grew up on the scenic coast of North Carolina, where his passion for the ocean and outdoor adventures began at an early age. Scuba diving, surfing, and sailing quickly became staples of his life, eventually inspiring him to pursue a career as a USCG-certified Captain. His journey in yachting began as a second engineer aboard motor yachts, but he soon found his true calling as a captain on sailing catamarans. With a background in the superyacht industry, Shawn brings a keen eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to exceptional service.
Although Shawn’s charter captain career has been largely rooted in the Caribbean, his experience spans the globe. He has led bespoke boat trips for fishing and surfing in Nicaragua’s stunning Rivas Province, and in recent years, he has captained yachts throughout Europe and French Polynesia. His extensive chartering experience includes cruising the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, the historic coastlines of the Mediterranean, and the breathtaking islands of the South Pacific.
Wherever his travels take him, Shawn’s passion for the outdoors shines through. Whether catching waves, harnessing the wind, or exploring new shores, he thrives on adventure and a deep connection to nature.
As the captain of Ohana, Shawn is dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences for his guests. From selecting the best activities to guiding you to hidden gems, he’ll tailor every moment to craft the island adventure of your dreams.
Shawn's Charter Experience | 120+ Charter weeks
Virgin Islands (USVI, BVI), Spanish Islands (Puerto Rico), Southern Caribbean, Mediterranean, French Polynesia, USA East Coast (NE, SC, FL), Central America (Nicaragua)
Shawn's Crossing/Delivery Experience | 40,000+ NM Offshore
Atlantic Ocean Crossing (x2), Caribbean Sea, Mediterranean Sea, Pacific Ocean, French Polynesia (Society Islands, Tuamotu Archipelago, Tahiti), US Eastern Coast
Shawn’s Qualifications:
—Yachting—
Master 200 GT Oceans Captain’s License | USCG
Endorsements: STCW II/3, Sailing, Towing
Able Body Seaman (AB), Lifeboatman | USCG
CPR, AED, First Aid, Emergency Oxygen Provider | USCG
—Water Safety + Scuba Diving—
Scuba Diving Instructor | NAUI #61521
Professional Surf Guiding: Pacific Coast of Central America
—Wellness—
Interests: Trail Running, Hiking, Surfing, Kiteboarding, Foiling, Yoga
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Chef | Katie Saunders
Chef Saunders may be a small-town girl, but her culinary expertise is truly world-class. With a rich background in catering, resort event planning, cafés, and organic eateries, Katie has always been passionate about cooking and creating unforgettable dining experiences. Her journey brought her to the sunny shores of St. Thomas, where she fell in love with the relaxed, vibrant rhythm of island life. It wasn’t long before the opportunity to combine her love of food with her love of the water arose, leading her into the exciting world of yachting.
With over eight years of experience as a luxury yacht chef and chief stewardess, Katie has mastered the art of delivering exceptional dining and hospitality aboard luxury yacht charters throughout the Caribbean. Her culinary creations are nothing short of extraordinary, and her warm, welcoming demeanor ensures every moment of your vacation is as memorable as her incredible meals. Whether it’s a gourmet feast or a casual beachside spread, Chef Saunders is dedicated to making your dining experience a highlight of your time on the water.
Katie's Qualifications:
—Yachting—
STCW | USCG
—Culinary + Hospitality—
Bronze Level Graduate | White Pepper Chef Academy & Cookery School
Food Safety and Hygiene Certification, Level Two | White Pepper Chef Academy & Cookery School, City & Guild Assured
—Industry Awards + Achievements—
First Place, Top Rum Cocktail 2020 | USVI VIPCA Charter Yacht Show
First Place, Top Dessert 2020 | USVI VIPCA Charter Yacht Show
Second Place, Top Entree 2020 | USVI VIPCA Charter Yacht Show
First Place, Top Dessert 2018 | USVI VIPCA Charter Yacht Show
—Wellness—
Interests: Running, Hiking
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Mate + Dive Instructor | Fabian Thomas
Growing up in London, far from the sea, Fabian always felt a profound connection to the ocean. As a child, he eagerly awaited summer trips to the coast, where he fell in love with fishing and snorkeling. Back in London, his passions revolved around football and skateboarding, but the pull of the water never left him. Channeling his love for sports and adventure, Fabian pursued roles as a personal trainer and swimming instructor while studying Geography at the University of Exeter. During his studies, his oceanic passion deepened—he traded skateboarding for surfing and spent his summers working as a kayak and coastal exploration guide.
These experiences cemented Fabian’s lifelong dedication to the water. Before long, he discovered his true calling beneath the waves, becoming a scuba diving instructor. This role has taken him to breathtaking dive sites across the globe, including Egypt's Red Sea, Sri Lanka, the Mediterranean, and Thailand, where he completed his divemaster and instructor certifications. Sharing the awe-inspiring wonders of the ocean with others has been one of the most rewarding aspects of his journey—a passion he’s excited to bring to you.
Fabian also has a strong background in hospitality, having worked as both a bartender and a barista. For over two years, he has thrived in the maritime world, working aboard vessels ranging from 60 to 230 feet. His adventures have taken him across the Mediterranean, on an Atlantic crossing, and now to the Caribbean. Along the way, Fabian has taken on diverse and vital roles, from managing engineering tasks to leading professional dives around shipwrecks and archaeological sites. His focus is always on creating safe, unforgettable experiences for those on board.
Fabian's Qualifications:
—Yachting—
STCW | USCG
AEC 1/Approved Engine Course | MCA
AEC 2/Approved Engine Course | MCA
Powerboat Level 2 | Royal Yachting Association
Proficiency in Designated Security Duties Security Training | USCG
Swimming Teacher Level 2 | American Swimming Association
Fitness Instructor and Personal Trainer Level 3
—Water Safety + Scuba Diving—
Dive Instructor | PADI
First Aid + CPR, AED Administration | PADI
Emergency First Responder - PADI
Care for Children | PADI
React Right (CPR, AED, O2, FA) | SSI
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Chief Stewardess | Maddy Tupper
Despite growing up in a landlocked province in Canada, Maddy’s passion for aquatic pursuits has always been undeniable. She started scuba diving at age ten and has experience as a lifeguard and swim instructor. Maddy spent her summers wake surfing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Recently graduated from university, with five years as a varsity student-athlete, Maddy's competitive spirit makes her always up for a beach game, a hike, or family board game. Her sense of team-work and commitment to the best experience radiates through everything she does. She will ensure each moment aboard Ohana is filled with laughter, relaxation, and joy accompanied by the hydrating drink of your choice!
Maddy has a background in the high-end service industry. She has pursued continuing education which has earned her key knowledge when it comes to pairing your wines, whipping up custom cocktails, and making sure your cravings are catered to. Her creative side and attention to detail shines when it comes to curated party planning, laying beautiful table scapes, and ensuring your space
onboard exceeds your expectations.
Maddy's journey with Ohana began as a guest. She chartered with Tyler three times and spent the entirety of her last charter repeatedly badgering Tyler for a job. So, heed this warning: the beauty of the BVI and the unforgettable experience aboard Ohana will keep you coming back, maybe indefinitely!
Maddy's Qualifications:
—Yachting—
STCW | USCG
Pleasure Craft Operator License | Transport Canada
—Water Safety + Scuba Diving—
CPR/AED Level C | National CPR Foundation
National Lifeguard | Lifesaving Society
Water Safety Instructor | Canadian Red Cross
Dive Master | NAUI
Specialized Training: Swim Instruction
—Culinary + Hospitality—
Food + Wine Level 1 | WSET
Food + Wine Level 2 | WEST
Alberta ProServe Certification | AGLC
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This crew's strong background in water safety and background in scuba diving makes them capable of providing an extra level of security to all of their guests.
Combined, their experience on the water, hospitality, and love for fun will ensure your vacation is full of unforgettable memories. You can guarantee Ohana is the best destination for your vacation.
ALL CREW HAVE BEEN FULLY VACCINATED FOR COVID-19
