Roy Rucker

Captain

American

Languages: English

Captain Roy Rucker
Captain Roy Pat Rucker has been helping guests enjoy unforgettable charter vacations since 2013. A Texas-born-and-raised cowboy, he grew up working on ranches and participating in rodeos before building a life centered around the sea.

Roy has spent more than four years sailing throughout the Virgin Islands and is also a certified advanced diver. Before fully embracing charter life, he spent 30 years with BP, working in a variety of technical and leadership roles including mechanic, lead technician, maintenance team leader, fireteam leader, and maintenance planner. His career took him aboard offshore platforms in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caspian Sea off the coast of Azerbaijan.

In 2017, Roy lost his charter yacht, THREE MOONS, during Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico. The loss was devastating, but it also reminded him how deeply he loved life on the water and sharing it with others.

Determined to begin again, Roy and his wife, Natalie, purchased a catamaran together and returned to chartering. Today, he brings technical knowledge, calm leadership, and genuine enthusiasm to every trip, helping guests experience the beauty, adventure, and relaxed rhythm of the Virgin Islands.

Natalie Rucker

Chef/First Mate

American

Languages: English

Chef Natalie Rucker
Chef Natalie Rucker spent 29 years working as a certified optician, where she developed a strong talent for customer service and creating personalized experiences. That same thoughtful, people-focused approach now shapes the way she cares for guests onboard.

Natalie loves helping guests eat well, enjoy great drinks, and make the most of every moment on charter. Her warm personality and natural hospitality create an easygoing atmosphere where guests feel comfortable, welcomed, and well looked after.

She enjoys tailoring the experience to each group, from meals and cocktails to favorite island stops and relaxed afternoons on the water. And, as an added bonus, she can even adjust your sunglasses if you happen to sit on them.

Some of Natalie’s favorite local spots include Dinghy’s on Water Island for Sunday Fundays and live music, and Hull Bay for its quiet, local feel. Her drink of choice is Diet Coke with Cruzan Rum, though she is always happy to enjoy a good margarita as well.

Pete

3rd Mate- Friendly Pup

Miniature Wirehaired Dachshund

Languages: Woof Woof

3rd Mate Pete
Pete is a handsome, well-mannered Miniature Wirehaired Dachshund and a much-loved member of the crew aboard BAREFOOT COWBOY. At five years old, he takes his duties seriously, especially when it comes to keeping everyone onboard smiling.

Laid-back and affectionate, Pete enjoys riding in the dinghy, taking long walks on the beach, swimming, chasing reflections, and fitting in plenty of naps between activities. When off duty, he can often be found close beside Captain Roy.

Pete has already made more than 200 friends during his first year of service and is especially popular with dockhands, who frequently stop by to say hello and bring him treats.

He also takes his role as Security Officer very seriously. Any food dropped on deck is inspected and removed immediately, helping keep BAREFOOT COWBOY clean, secure, and snack-free at all times.