crewed@visailing.com | (800)382-9666 | (941)966-9387
SHANGRI LA - CREW BIO
Capt. Sean O'Grady
Growing up sailing with my Dad, I found the love for the ocean at an early age. After a few years off the water, I got back into sailing in SF Bay, enjoying racing and charters both. I have worked with USA76, a former America's cup IACC yacht, since 2018. I have done some commercial fishing in Alaska as well as some sport fish guiding and working on large yachts. I worked as the maintenance director and a Captain on a pair of Santa Cruz 70’s in Monterey Bay for two years. I then made my way to the Caribbean to get some sun and share my love of the ocean breeze with all the great people I get to take out on the water.
I hold a 100 ton near coastal Master license with STCW, Sail and Assistance Towing endorsements. My philosophy as a Captain is to provide a safe fun atmosphere with the highest levels of service. Let’s laugh together and enjoy all the islands have to offer.
Chef Julia Ray grew up in Michigan surrounded by the Great Lakes. She developed a love for boating and sailing on frequent family outings on Lake Huron and the many inland waterways that are abundant in Michigan. Julia was introduced to the Virgin Islands as a child on the first of many annual family vacations more than 30 years ago. Julia learned to cook and entertain while assisting family members during daily meal preparation and by assisting with catering numerous gatherings. Julia has also worked in the restaurant and hospitality industries. She holds degrees in both accounting and social work and although she had a successful career in the corporate world, she left it all behind in 2013 to realize her dream of living in the Virgin Islands. She has since been employed as mate and chef, sailing throughout the islands.
Energetic and personable, Julia loves to meet new people and share her enthusiasm for the islands while ensuring their comfort and safety aboard and in the water. She is certified in first aid, CPR and fire fighting. She spends much of her spare time in the kitchen, preparing and perfecting new recipes for friends and family to sample. Julia delights in spoiling guests with gourmet meals and tempting treats. She prepares a wide variety of meals and remains flexible in her meal planning to ensure the freshest and best quality food is offered to guests. Julia takes much pride in her ability to work with guests to accommodate special diets and food allergies and develop menus that will leave everyone satisfied!
crewed@visailing.com | (800)382-9666 | (941)966-9387