London born, Raph grew up dinghy sailing from a tender age in UK waters but it wasn’t until 2012 that his career in sailing was truly launched.
He partook in the Oyster round the world rally that took him from Mallorca, Spain all the way to Thailand, via the gems of the Pacific Ocean. It was this trip that caused him to fall in love with all things Ocean and he promptly obtained his RYA Yachtmaster.
During this time, he also acquired his bachelor's degree at the University of Leeds but the pull of getting paid to do something he loved was too strong and he returned to a life on the Ocean.
To date he has completed 4 Atlantic Crossings, 1 Pacific crossing and over 50 charters, so as well as being a fun, friendly and easy-going addition to your group, know you’ll be in extremely safe and experienced hands too.
Anna, originally from Michigan, always had a passion for travel and adventure. During the pandemic, she relocated to the USVI after living in New York City for 5 years. Whilst in New York, she was a professional Modern dancer and Assistant Rehearsal Director for world renown company, Jennifer Muller/The Works. Being a dancer, fitness was always important, driving her to complete her 600 hour Pilates certification from New York Pilates. Once Covid struck, the dance world was put on hold and Anna dove head first into a full time career change.
Anna’s love for sailing started in 2018, when she experienced her first trip in Greece. Immediately after, she realized her desire for the industry and began working for a sailing company as a freelance charter chef in Greece, Croatia and the British Virgin Islands.
Raph and Anna met in the Caribbean islands in 2017 while Anna’s family was on vacation, where she met her forever favorite captain, Raph. Since then, Anna and Raph have been inseparable, spending most of their time on sailing yachts, New York and London. With their shared love for adventure and hospitality, they make a great team to ensure the best experience aboard Okeana.