OHANA

About the Crew

Rotational Crew 

Our captains and chefs follow a rotation schedule, which balances their professional duties with personal time. This structure not only allows our veteran crew 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.

Captain's Rotation: Two-On, Two-Off 
Captain Tyler + Captain Brian
The rotation schedule currently begins on the 1st of each month (unless noted), though this may be subject to change. For the most up-to date information on who will be working during your charter please inquire. 

2026: Jan, Tyler | Feb-March, Brian | April-May, Tyler | June-July, Brian | Aug-Oct, Tyler | Oct 20 - Dec 15 Nov, Brian | Dec 15, Piers 
2027: - Feb 15, Piers | Feb 15-Apr 15, Brian | April 15 -June 15, Piers | June 15 - Aug 15 Brian | Aug 15 - Oct 15, Brian | Oct 15 - Dec 15, Piers| Dec 15 -, Brian

Chef's Rotation: Three-On, Three-Off 
Chef Dominic + Chef Sam 
The rotation schedule currently begins on the 1st of each month (unless noted), though this may be subject to change. For the most up-to-date information on who will be working during your charter please inquire. 

2026: Jan, Dominic | Feb-April, Sam | May-July, Dominic | Aug-Sept, Sam | Oct-Nov, Dominic | Dec, Sam
2027: Jan-Feb, Sam | March-May, Dominic | June-July, Sam | Aug-Sept, Dominic | Oct-Nov, Sam | Dec, Dominic 

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Rotational Captain | Tyler Boruff 

Always on the move and ready for the next adventure, Tyler is a true waterman with a deep love for the outdoors and a talent for connecting with people. Raised on fishing, boating, wakeboarding, and waterskiing, his passion for life on the water began early. At just ten years old, he went sailing for the first time and he was hooked.

During college, Tyler worked as both a windsurfing and scuba diving instructor, combining his love for the ocean with his natural ease in teaching and leadership. His journey later took him to the East Coast, where he owned and operated fishing boats and served as a first mate and dive instructor on several charter and dive vessels. After earning his degree in finance with a minor in business, he set out for a corporate job. He was simply too dry. 

When he's not on the water, Tyler is likely deep in the wilderness. A true outdoorsman, he enjoys backpacking and hunting in the mountains of North Carolina, his home base. He also enjoys cave diving in North Florida and freediving the reefs of the Florida Keys. Island life suits him perfectly: he’s often found exploring trails, searching for cliff-jumping spots, or diving for lobsters in the USVI. In the BVI, you’ll likely catch him kiteboarding when the breeze is right. An expert freediver with a keen eye for marine life, Tyler is also known for his impressive fish identification skills.

Hospitality comes naturally to him. With years of experience in guest service and management, and even a bartender’s license, Tyler understands how to create an inviting and memorable guest experience. As your captain aboard Ohana, he combines his love for adventure with a strong focus on safety, professionalism, and good times.

Tyler began his yachting journey alongside his wife, Erika, who worked as his chef. Together, they formed a dynamic duo, bringing exceptional hospitality and heart to every charter. In 2023, they welcomed their baby girl into the world. A milestone that inspired them to step back from full-time yachting. Since then, Tyler has transitioned to a rotation schedule, allowing him to balance family life with being a charter yacht captain.

Tyler is passionate about helping guests turn their dream island vacations into unforgettable memories. He’ll work closely with you to design a custom itinerary full of adventure, relaxation, and bucket-list moments - ensuring your time aboard Ohana is as fun and fulfilling as the islands themselves.

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
BVI Work Permit | RYC 

—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, Mountain Biking, Trail Running, Deep Sea Fishing, Board Sports, Overlanding 

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Rotational Captain | Brian Schott

A lifelong ocean enthusiast, Brian has built a dynamic career rooted in his deep love and respect for the sea. Raised in the coastal haven of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, his connection to the water began early as a junior lifeguard, where he developed a strong foundation in ocean safety, awareness, and confidence in the surf.

His passion for hospitality led him to pursue a degree in Hospitality and Hotel Management, after which he relocated to Southern California. It was in the lively waters of San Diego Bay that Brian first fell in love with sailing. At the helm of small sailboats, he discovered a true passion for seamanship and navigation—an experience that would chart the course for his future.

In 2017, Brian made the bold decision to leave the corporate world behind and commit fully to life on the water. Since then, he has logged over a decade of hands-on experience in the maritime industry, demonstrating a unique ability to adapt across a wide variety of vessels, from nimble sailing yachts to luxurious motor yachts.

His diverse background includes leading multi-day charter adventures, offshore deliveries, private family cruising, and managing liveaboard programs. Whether curating bespoke itineraries or ensuring seamless day-to-day operations, Brian brings a calm, confident presence and an unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction. Known for his approachable leadership style, he creates a relaxed yet professional onboard atmosphere centered on safety, teamwork, and genuine enjoyment.

In 2025, after nearly a decade of yachting, Brian met his now-wife, fittingly, on a boat. The couple recently welcomed a baby boy in their UK home-base. Brian started rotating as a captain when he started his family. 

Today, Brian continues to bring his trademark energy, precision, and enthusiasm to every Ohana charter—delivering unforgettable experiences with a personal touch, one voyage at a time.

Brian’s Charter Experience | 120+ Charter weeks
(USVI/BVI), Croatia, Montenegro, Greece, Italy, Ireland, French Polynesia, Seychelles, Bahamas, British Virgin Islands, Grenada, and the Southern Caribbean

Brian’s Ocean Experience | 25,000+ NM Offshore
Caribbean Sea, Mediterranean Sea, Straits of Gibraltar, Chesapeake Bay, USA Eastern Coast, Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Poland (Sunreef Factory Build/Sea Trials), Baltic Sea, Indian Ocean

Brian’s Qualifications:

—Yachting—
Master 500 GT Near Coastal Captain's License | USCG
Endorsements: STCW II/3, Sailing | USCG
Royal Yachting Association Offshore Yachtmaster License | RYA
Endorsements: Commercial 
GMDSS, EDCIS | USCG
First Aid + CPR, AED | USCG
BVI Work Permit | RYC 

—Water Safety + Scuba Diving—
Dive Instructor | PADI

—Wellness—
Interests: Scuba Diving, Freediving, Snowboarding, Running, Fine Wines 

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Rotational Captain | Piers Helm 
Born and raised in the British Virgin Islands, Piers Helm naturally developed a deep connection to the ocean. Most free time was spent on or in the sea, from freediving for lobsters to teaching windsurfing during the summers. A passion for the ocean emerged at a young age, with weekends dedicated to exploring the bays and islands of the BVI aboard power and sailing boats.

Piers began sailboat racing early on, traveling to other Caribbean islands to compete in regattas. His journey in the hospitality industry started during his early teenage years, progressing from bartending to captaining day sailboats across the Virgin Islands. The joy of sailing and entertaining led him to run term charters, advancing from bareboats to crewed yachts, and eventually managing several mega yachts.

After years of chartering larger yachts, Piers transitioned to performance multihulls, pursuing his love for high-speed sailing and freediving. Following seven years of managing private yachts, he decided to return to charter boats, reigniting his passion for sharing the beauty of the BVI and his love for the ocean with charter guests once again.

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Rotational Chef | Dominic Hörl

Dominic’s culinary journey began in the picturesque village of Schreiersgrün, Germany, where his early connection to nature and food was nurtured by his grandparents’ gardens and the surrounding forests. Foraging for wild herbs, vegetables, and mushrooms sparked a fascination that led him to begin his culinary career at just 16.

He launched his apprenticeship at a Michelin-starred restaurant within a renowned spa hotel in the German countryside, where he quickly discovered a love for precision, creativity, and exceeding expectations. Over the next decade, Dominic thrived in Michelin-caliber kitchens, mastering the art of refined cuisine. His dedication and skill were ultimately recognized when, as head chef, he helped lead his restaurant to earn its own Michelin star—an achievement that remains a proud milestone in his career.

After years of high-level success, Dominic was ready for a new adventure. He relocated to the Caribbean, where his connection to nature deepened—this time through the sea. Embracing freediving and scuba diving, he explored vibrant marine life and diverse island ecosystems, finding new inspiration in every dive. It was here, in the British Virgin Islands, that he and his wife chose to make their home.

Now with over 18 years of experience in hospitality and fine dining, Dominic brings a calm confidence and thoughtful approach to every table. As a rotating yacht chef, he has found the perfect harmony between his love for exploration and his dedication to delivering unforgettable culinary experiences. His cuisine blends the elegance of Mediterranean techniques with bold Asian influences and a hint of Caribbean soul—tailored to delight Ohana's guests with every bite.

Dominic's Qualifications:

—Culinary + Hospitality—
Degree of Culinary Arts | German Restaurant + Hotel Association (DEHOGA)
Culinary Studies | German Restaurant + Hotel Association (DEHOGA)
Sommelier Degree | ISC

—Yachting—
STCW | USCG
ENG 1 | MCA
BVI Work Permit | RYC 

—Water Safety + Scuba Diving—
Scuba Diver | 

—Industry Awards + Achievements— 
Wine Pairing Award First Place Winner 2016 | Bordeaux Wine Boot Camp
Michelin Star Award, Restaurant Carrousel Head Chef, 2015 | Michelin Guide 
Culinary Competition for the German State of Brandenburg First Place Winner 2009 | Rudolf Achenbach Preis

—Wellness—
Interests: Freediving, Foraging, Hiking, Travel 

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Rotational Chef | Sam Middeke 

Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, Sam is a trained chef with a deep-rooted passion for crafting thoughtful, ingredient-driven cuisine. After completing culinary school in his hometown, he honed his skills in the dynamic food scene of Nashville, Tennessee, working under some of the city's most respected chefs. Through dedication and creativity, Sam quickly rose through the ranks to become Executive Chef at one of Nashville’s culinary mainstays.

In 2020, Sam started a Supper Club in Nashville. Developed during the covid-19 pandemic to give people an opportunity to get together in a small, safe environment when options were scarce. His first taste of cooking in a more intimate and private setting. 

After six successful years in Music City, Sam set his sights beyond the restaurant world—exchanging brick-and-mortar kitchens for a life at sea. As a yacht chef, he now brings together his love of scratch cooking and his appetite for adventure, drawing inspiration from global flavors and techniques discovered through his culinary travels. 

Recently, Sam discovered a new passion for skydiving and paragliding. Adrenaline-fueled pursuits that perfectly complement his adventurous spirit. These high-flying hobbies have sparked a renewed drive for exploration, learning, and pushing boundaries. The thrill of jumping and traveling inspired him to shift to a rotational schedule, offering the freedom to chase new experiences while maintaining his love for life at sea.

When he’s not in the sky or on the water, Sam stays connected to his culinary roots. His time off allows him to continue hosting his signature Supper Club and collaborate with fellow chefs in Nashville, keeping his creativity sharp and his menus ever-evolving.

Sam's boundless curiosity, eye for detail and commitment to excellence make him a skilled chef. He designs bespoke, handcrafted menus tailored to each guest, making every meal a memorable experience on Ohana.

Sam's Qualifications:

—Culinary + Hospitality—
Degree of Culinary Art | STLCC 

—Yachting—
STCW | USCG
BVI Work Permit | RYC 

—Water Safety + Scuba Diving—
Advanced Scuba Diver | NAUI

—Industry Awards + Achievements— 
Best Crew In Show 2022 | USVI VIPCA Charter Yacht Show 
Best Crew In Show Runner-Up 2023 | USVI VIPCA Charter Yacht Show

—Wellness—
Skydiving B License | USPA
Paragliding 2 | USHPA 

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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 Ohana.

Fabian's Qualifications:

—Yachting—
STCW | USCG
ENG 1 | MCA
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 
BVI Work Permit | RYC 

—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 five years of experience as a lifeguard and swim instructor. Maddy spent her summers wake surfing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding.

After earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Finance in 2024, Maddy decided spreadsheets and boardrooms weren’t nearly as exciting as sunshine and saltwater. With five years as a varsity student-athlete, her competitive streak means she’s always game for anything—beach volleyball, a hike, or a fiercely contested family board game. In her two years sailing with Ohana, she has perfected her craft, sharpened her eye for detail, and mastered the fine art of having fun at work. You can count on Maddy to keep spirits high, laughter flowing, and everyone hydrated with the drink of their 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 tablescapes, and ensuring your comfort 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
ENG 1 | MCA 
Dayskipper | RYA
Pleasure Craft Operator License | Transport Canada
BVI Work Permit | RYC 

—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.