Meet the Crew
Location: West End, Tortola
Hello, hello, hello! We are incredibly THRILLED to be writing the first blog post for the trip! It’s been a bit too quiet these past few days as we staff have been stocking the boats with food, preparing lessons, and eagerly awaiting the people who make the place…the students! Our new home, the lovely Pure Joy IV, will soon be filled with laughter, excitement, and a lifetime full of memories. We have some pretty exciting adventures lined up, but I can say that the truly life-changing moments will be the little mundane ones that sneak up on you. Perhaps a ridiculous conversation in the dishy pit, or a dance party that delays dinner ever so slightly… regardless of the big moments and the little ones, we cannot wait to set sail!
Now we could go on and on about how amazing ActionQuest is, but we’ll spare you and allow your loved ones to take it from here… Let’s meet the crew!!
Our Skipper, Steph!
Steph was born and raised in New Zealand and brings a classic Kiwi “she’ll be right” attitude along with her. She discovered her love for sailing at just eight years old and steadily progressed through the ranks, gaining experience on both smaller and bigger yachts. Steph has worked closely with teens and youth, using sailing as a platform to build confidence and develop leadership skills, all while making sure there’s an element of fun! When she’s not out on the water, Steph can usually be found doodling in art books or jamming on her ukulele.
Our Skipper/Mate, Max
Max was raised in the sunny U.K. and learned to sail in the Solent. He also gained experience while crossing the English Channel to France. After learning to sail, Max took part in professional yacht deliveries, sailing along the European coastline from England down to Gran Canaria. He has also spent time sailing in the Mediterranean, both as a flotilla skipper and on delivery trips. When Max is not sailing, he’s busy bird watching, making wine or exploring in the bush.
Our Mate, Nicola (Nicky)!
Nicky is a sailor from sunny South Africa and has worked on a variety of vessels around the world, building her skills, gaining sea miles and fully embracing life on the water. More recently, she returned home to grow her experience in marketing within the music industry, but the pull of the ocean never really left.
She’s since completed a few skipper qualifications and is always keen to keep learning and improving her sailing. This summer, Nicola is excited to get back on the water – sailing, diving and sharing unforgettable experiences with people from all walks of life. She’s especially passionate about the impact sailing can have and loves connecting with others who feel the same. When she’s not on the water or with friends, you’ll probably find her reading, hiking, speaking Spanish, or trying something new.
You’ve got a full international staff team this trip! We’re super excited to meet everyone and start this wonderful experience. Bring on PJ4!!!