Captain John-Paul “JP” Dunaway
USCG Master, Unlimited Tonnage • First-Class Pilot, Houston Ship Channel • Masters Upon Oceans

Texas-born and fourth-generation mariner, Captain JP grew up in a family of boat builders and seafarers. Entranced by his grandfather’s tales of far-flung voyages, he built his first “vessel” at eight—a raft inspired by Mark Twain. With a bedsheet sail sewn by his mother and a closet-rod mast stepped by his grandfather, JP learned early how tides, wind, and imagination can turn water into freedom. That spark set the course for a life less ordinary.

Today he holds the highest maritime credentials and has piloted more than 12,000 ships through some of the world’s most challenging and breathtaking waters. Fluent in three languages and seasoned by years spent living in the US & British Virgin Islands and Grenada, JP blends deep-water professionalism with island soul.

Step aboard Sea Dancer and you’ll find more than a captain—you’ll meet a natural teacher eager to share the art of sail trim, knot-tying, and the thrill of “tanker surfing” a ship’s wake. Whether paddle-boarding at sunrise, diving vibrant reefs, or finding zen on a foredeck yoga mat, Captain JP delights in revealing hidden Caribbean jewels and secret hideaways to every guest.

“The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.”
— Jacques Yves Cousteau




Chef Kendra Wilt
​Chef Kendra is passionate about preparing delicious food and is experienced with entertaining guests rooted in her Latina background. Born and raised in Midwest Ohio, where her father is from, her Panamanian mother allowed her the space and grace to work in the kitchen at a very young age. Entertaining friends is a favorite activity, and pleasing people's palates is the goal. Kendra enjoys traveling, meeting new people, and discovering savory recipes from around the world. She is especially fond of Mediterranean cuisine, with healthy eating in mind. Previously, as a baker and young mother, Cake by Kendra made special occasion cakes for weddings, anniversaries, and birthdays. Especially memorable is making her favorite flourless chocolate cake covered in homemade dark chocolate fondant she made for a gluten-free bride and her daughter Natalia's quinceañera birthday. As a mother of a daughter with gluten allergies, Kendra has learned to prepare food catering to food allergies. Living in Panama, her mother's native country, for over seven years allowed her many opportunities to expand her palate from the Midwest to her Caribbean roots.

Kendra has a keen sense of taste to ensure her food is well seasoned and packed with flavor.Kendra loves everything sand & sea, and while on the boat, she can fulfill her dream of having a restaurant, only it is floating with special guests she can spoil for a week by providing nutritious and delicious meals. Her small town Ohio neighbors will remember Kendra for making her delectable Cinnamon Rolls to raise funds for her study trip to France. She is fully bilingual in English and Spanish, and can communicate in French. She loves outdoor activities, from hiking, cycling,swimming, snorkeling, and especially stand up paddle boarding (SUP). Kendra is well-rounded and studied, holding her B.A. in Latin American and Caribbean Studies with Business from Florida State University, her Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) designation from American College, and,most recently, obtaining her M.A. in Teaching from Marian University. Now, she is excited to be chartering out of the beautiful Grenadines, as Grenada is her great-grandparents' country of origin,known as the Spice Island, and for its chocolate.




Chef Wanda Flannagan
Chef onboard Jan 10,2026 - March 2026
A proud Texan with deep hospitality roots, Chef Wanda Flannagan brings heart, heritage, and bold flavor to every dish she creates. Her passion for food runs generations deep — inspired by her grandmother, a professional waitress, and her father, a Navy chef.

Wanda began her professional journey in education, attending college in the Permian Basin on a swimming scholarship — an early sign of the discipline, drive, and team spirit she now brings to the galley. But it was her grandmother’s encouragement that led her to bartender school and ultimately into the vibrant world of fine dining.

Over the years, Wanda has built a diverse culinary career, working in upscale restaurants, teaching gourmet cooking classes and wine pairings, and mastering both kitchen and bar. Her cooking style blends bold Texas flavors with fresh Mediterranean influences, and she’s especially known for her indulgent desserts — particularly her decadent cheesecakes and anything made with rich, nutty brown butter.

Chef Wanda’s menus reflect not just skill, but soul — each meal served with warmth, intention, and a genuine love for sharing exceptional food and drink with others. Whether she’s crafting a cocktail or plating a five-star dish, she’s all about flavor, connection, and unforgettable hospitality.



Chef Natalia Cruz
Natalia Cruz grew up in Ohio, spending her summers on Lake Erie, where she developed a lifelong love for the water. With roots in Panama, she was immersed in the kitchen from an early age, learning traditional Panamanian and Latin dishes from her grandmother and mother—long before she could reach the counter on her own.

Her culinary style blends bold Latin flavors with creative, from-scratch cooking. Natalia enjoys crafting homemade soups, pasta sauces, marinades, and dry rubs, and loves experimenting with fusion dishes. An avid baker, she is especially known for her cookies, brownies, and pies. She also brings special expertise to allergen-friendly and gluten-sensitive cooking, informed by her own personal experience.

In addition to her skills in the galley, Natalia is an amateur bartender who enjoys creating custom cocktails to complement the onboard experience. When she’s not cooking, she loves hiking, paddleboarding, and spending time on the water. She is also an avid reader and graduated cum laude from Kent State University.

Natalia continues to refine her craft through professional culinary experiences, including time spent at The Chopping Block in Chicago. With a natural flair for blending spices and flavors that truly dance on the palate, she looks forward to creating memorable meals that elevate every charter experience.