Your Crew
CAPTAIN Matt Mullins & MATE/CHEF Tara Phelan
Matt and Tara are an experienced energetic couple with a great sense of fun. They have a diverse range of skills above and below the water. A highly motivated, organized couple with an eye for detail and the desire to ensure their guests have the vacation they have been dreaming about.
Captain Matt, an RYA/MCA certified Yachtmaster, boasts over 15 years of professional sailing across Australia, Italy, the UK, and the BVI. His journey includes a two-year tenure as a charter skipper in Italy's southern waters, where he led a diverse array of boats and groups.
Prior to his transition to private crewed yachts, Matt imparted his knowledge as an RYA & ASA sailing instructor in the BVI, focusing on beginner to intermediate courses. His role as Sunsail's flotilla skipper saw him navigating up to fifteen boats through the islands' serene waters. Passionate about sailing, Matt thrives on the camaraderie with guests, the thrill of new challenges, and the joy of discovering novel locales and cultures.
A professional chef, Tara spent two years at one of London's top catering colleges, and 10 years working in some top restaurants and hotels in London. Wanting to travel she became a diving instructor and started exploring the world, including spending 7 years on Grand Cayman as a diving instructor and underwater videographer. In her free time, she set up her own company, catering for cocktail parties and small business lunches. Here is where she combined her two passions: cooking and the ocean.
In 2010, Tara's journey brought her to the BVI, where she served as the chef aboard a 105-foot trimaran, navigating the Caribbean waters and delighting up to 20 guests with her culinary creations. Her impeccable organization skills were key to satisfying the appetites of 27 people daily. With her extensive training, Tara adeptly tailors her menu to accommodate any dietary needs, continually crafting innovative dishes to offer an unforgettable dining experience to her guests.
In 2012, Matt and Tara united as a dynamic Captain and Chef duo, committed to providing top-notch charter experiences in the stunning British Virgin Islands. Their collaboration has set a high standard for sailing adventures, blending expert navigation with exquisite culinary delights, all set against the backdrop of the BVI's breathtaking scenery.
Indigo Feb 13-20
We had a marvelous time hosted by the "Awesome" Tara & Matt! A very unforgettable experience for these BVI's Virgins! We will be back... But have to lose some weight after eaten so well and often! We will definitely recommend you to our friends (Acquaintances), FERGS
What an amazing week! Where to begin? Tara's cooking is insane! We were spoiled rotten and are taking home a few extra pounds. Captain Matt took care of us and kept me laughing all week long.'
We will miss you and look forward to another week in paradise! Love Suzy & KD (KBD)
February 2026
We had not visited the BVI since 2012, and are so glad we came again — and thrilled that we chose the Indigo hosted by Matt and Tara. We could not have had a more enjoyable week.
The shoreline and beach race trail excursions, the peaceful moorings, expert boat handling by Capt. Matt (and also his excellent bartending)...
The warm welcome and master culinary skills shared with us by Tara — three unbelievable creations each day!
Thank you and I hope we meet again,
Cindy & Kurt
Dallas, TX
P.S. Matt’s Mint Chocolate Martinis — YUM!!
A week in paradise with the most extraordinary hosts!! Every single day was a fabulous experience. Matt & Tara shared their knowledge of the island — what to see & do, great snorkeling sites. Nothing can describe the phenomenal meals we were served… there are just not words! Tara is an Artiste!!! Every meal exceeded any expectation. Beautifully presented, delicious works of art. I have never eaten so many scrumptious meals, one after another — each one more pleasing to the taste buds & eye than the one before.
Matt & Tara attended to our every need, many times before we even opened our mouths to request. Truly perfect hosts — delightful, joyous, positive, funny people, so lovely to spend a week with!
Thank you ever so much,
Wendy & Bill
Dallas, Texas