GRANDE DAME Yacht Charter Catamaran

Crew Profile

Newlyweds, Captain Ryan and Chef Lesli cannot wait to share their love and knowledge of the Caribbean Sea and all its offerings. Their excitement is contagious. Their attention to detail and consideration of safety will leave you with nothing to focus on but the beauty of your surroundings and the equal parts relaxation and adventure they inspire. Ryan and Lesli are avid ocean enthusiasts and adventure seekers ready to provide you with the ultimate charter experience.

Captain Ryan is most at home on the water. He started sailing and boating at 9 years old navigating the waters on Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri, where he grew up. He has since single-handedly logged (solo sailed) over 5,000 nautical miles offshore; from Key West to the Virgin Islands, Bahamas to Grenada and everywhere in between. He has experience on vessels of all shapes and sizes but holds a special place in his heart for traditional tall ships. He is also a sailing instructor, happy to share his knowledge with any interested passengers. A natural athlete, Ryan thrives in competitive wakeboarding, enjoys kiteboarding and wake surfing.
Ryan served in the US Navy where he studied engineering at the US Naval Nuclear Power Training Command in Goose Creek, SC. He is a man of service, whether serving his community or his guests. His knowledge, experiences and entertaining stories set a tone for the most memorable sailing experiences.

Chef Lesli also holds a 100ton USCG Masters license. She has been in the charter industry living and working on boats for the past 8 years. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Interior Design and practiced both residential and commercial design in New York City before finding her ultimate passion of chartering the Caribbean. Originally from Michigan, she grew up spending as much time outside as possible; enjoying watersports on the lakes, hiking, biking and golfing in the summers and skiing and snowboarding in the winters.
Lesli’s second home is in the galley where she can showcase her artistic culinary creations inspired by her surroundings. She loves using fresh, local proteins and produce whenever possible. She has over 15 years of experience in the customer service industry and adores entertaining while sharing her love and knowledge of the ocean with her guests. Lesli will immediately make you feel at home on Sky as she takes great pride in customizing your charter experience, ensuring vacation memories that will last a lifetime.
Ryan and Lesli both enjoy all watersports. They are active divers and world travellers.