CAPTAIN KIERAN & FIRST MATE MICHELLE
Kieran & Michelle (Left in photo) met back in 2012 in Mexico whilst working in the dive industry as instructors and photographers. Since then, they have been on an unstoppable adventure that has taken them across the Caribbean, the Americas, Europe & Southeast Asia. Kieran is an accomplished diver as well as a Captain. He enjoys most water sports and has a keen interest in marine life.
They have now been in the charter industry for 8 years and are enjoying their home in the British Virgin Islands. The country is full of history and secrets that have allowed them to discover more and more as their adventure continues slowly. Both Kieran & Michelle were led to the ocean by a passion for scuba diving and adventure; it was this passion that formed the foundation for a life destined for the ocean. Being on boats has been an integral part of their lives since they were young, and it was a natural progression to move on to running sailing yachts in the Caribbean.
Michelle is an experienced sailor, holding her RYA Day Skipper, a PADI Dive Instructor, and an extremely competent Watersport Instructor, whether it’s surfing, foiling, wakeboarding, or free diving, she’s got you covered. If that wasn’t enough, she’s also professionally culinary trained and has worked as a yacht chef for 5 seasons. In addition to working on charter yachts, Kieran & Michelle’s other passions are adventure and photography. It is this combination that led to the birth of the Panga Expeditions. For the past 10 years, they have been traveling the world, capturing incredible footage from both above and below the surface, and have been featured on numerous national TV channels and online media outlets, including National Geographic, Discovery, Shark Week, GoPro & Google. Whilst enjoying brief sponsorships from GoPro, Light & Motion, and other adventure sports companies to help capture incredible footage.
CHEF ASHLEIGH
With a diverse background rooted in hospitality, Ashleigh found a natural transition into the world of yachting through a love of the sun, sea, and travel. Starting as a deckhand, it wasn’t long before a strong passion for food, nutrition, and cooking led to a permanent place in the galley.
Formally trained in culinary arts, Ashleigh also takes every opportunity to deepen their culinary knowledge through hands-on local cooking courses in destinations around the world—from the vibrant markets of Indonesia to the traditional kitchens of Italy. These immersive experiences inspire a globally influenced style that blends bold flavours with beautifully presented, contemporary dishes, celebrating regional ingredients and creating menus tailored to each unique destination.
With a strong foundation in nutrition, Ashleigh is dedicated to creating meals that not only taste incredible but also nourish and support individual well-being. Special attention is given to dietary requirements and preferences—whether plant-based, gluten-free, allergen-sensitive, or health-focused—to ensure every guest feels considered and cared for.
Using fresh, locally sourced ingredients wherever possible, Ashleigh curates menus that reflect the destination and the season, from relaxed alfresco lunches to elegant multi-course dinners. Each dish is designed to enhance the charter experience through flavour, creativity, and a personal touch.
STEWARDESS CAMERON
Cameron grew up between the rocky coastline and snowy mountains of Portland, Maine. While she’ll always love her home state and skiing its peaks, her love for the ocean and warmer weather eventually pulled her further afield. After graduating from the University of Maine, Cameron joined the yachting industry in 2018, a path that has since taken her around the world. She has worked aboard both large sailing yachts and catamarans, from the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas and Caribbean to the far-flung coasts of Patagonia, Alaska, and even Greenland.
Holding her Yachtmaster Offshore certification, Cameron brings a strong foundation in seamanship while balancing her role with a natural flair for hospitality. Her time managing a boutique hotel in Costa Rica gave her valuable experience in creating exceptional guest experiences, which she now blends seamlessly with her life at sea.
Cameron is happiest when she’s in or on the ocean- surfing, scuba diving, free diving, or simply under sail. She also loves hiking, traveling, and discovering new corners of the world. With her adventurous spirit, love for the sea, and diverse background, Cameron is excited to contribute to the crew and deliver an unforgettable season for guests.”