Your Crew
CAPTAIN Paul Bowring & MATE/CHEF Alexa DeRiggs
Captain Paul and Chef/First Mate Lexy have been sharing adventures on the water since 2017, combining their passion for sailing, hospitality, and exploration into unforgettable charter experiences. With years of experience throughout the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and beyond, they create a warm, authentic atmosphere where exceptional service, fresh cuisine, and genuine island adventure come together effortlessly.
Click each crew profile to learn more about their background, experience, and personal story.
July 2026
<p>Our six nights aboard IARA with Captain Paul and Chef Lexy were the highlight of our two week Caribbean vacation. Traveling with three teenagers, we were hoping for a trip that balanced relaxation, adventure, and quality family time. It exceeded all of our expectations.</p><p> </p><p>From the moment we stepped aboard, Paul and Lexy made us feel completely welcome. IARA is a beautiful, comfortable boat, and there really is no better way to experience the islands.</p><p> </p><p>Chef Lexy’s meals were outstanding. Every breakfast, lunch, and dinner was fresh, creative, and beautifully prepared. We found ourselves looking forward to every meal, and she always seemed to know exactly what we wanted after a day on the water. Our daughter is a notoriously picky eater, so we laughed when one of her favorite meals was a bowl of Kraft Mac and Cheese. Lexy had it ready for her without hesitation, and that small gesture made our daughter feel just as special as the rest of us.</p><p> </p><p>Captain Paul was the perfect guide. His knowledge of the islands and local waters made every day feel effortless, whether we were snorkeling, exploring a quiet beach, or finding the perfect place to anchor for the evening. Together, Paul and Lexy created an experience that felt personal, relaxed, and genuinely special.</p><p> </p><p>One of the biggest surprises was that everyone in our family agreed this was the best part of the trip. With three teenagers, that is saying something. There was always something to do, whether it was swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, exploring, or simply relaxing and enjoying time on the water.</p><p> </p><p>We are incredibly grateful for the memories we made during those six nights. We cannot recommend IARA, Captain Paul, and Chef Lexy highly enough. If you are considering a Caribbean charter, do not hesitate. You will come home with unforgettable memories.</p><p> </p><p>Thanks</p><p>Katie, Jon, Tyler, Dylan, Kayla & Whitney</p>
June 2026
<p>This was a bucket list trip to celebrate my 60th birthday with my adult kids. We chose Iara for its space for the family to spread out and its amenities.<br><br>While the boat was perfect, what really made our trip was Captain Paul and Chef Lexy. We felt safe, cared for and pampered. They quickly got the rhythm of our family and the things we enjoyed doing.<br><br>Captain Paul made sure we got to amazing snorkel spots, patiently taught the kids to e-foil and his golden hour cocktails were 10/10.<br><br>Chef Lexy”s menus were creative with multiple layers of flavors and were extraordinarily yummy. She leaned in and embraced our GF eater and killed it, including making an epic flourless chocolate cake. Lexy cooks with love and every plate is beautifully intentional.<br><br>We are grateful for Paul, Lexy and Iara. This adventure was spectacular! Thank you all so much!<br>~Karen</p>