Xandros
Crew profile

Captain: Tyler Armstrong
Tyler was raised on the lakes of Texas and holds three engineering degrees with focuses on design, controls, and systems management. He transitioned to yachting in 2017 during the Mediterranean summer season then became a full-time charter captain in the Virgin Islands from 2018 to 2020. During the pandemic, he returned to engineering, leading a rocket control actuation system design team. Since then, he has continued to work as a freelance captain on short-term charters across the globe. In 2024, he returned to BVI!

Qualifications:
RYA Yachtmaster Offshore w/ Commercial Endorsement
USCG MMC, Master 100GRT
Adult and Pediatric First Aid / CPR / AED –American Red Cross Association
STCW 95/ENG 1
Quarterdeck Academy Graduate
April 2017 PADI Adv. Open Water Diver
[Upgrading to Dive Master end of 2025]

Chef: Ryan Katona
Ryan was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan and began working in hospitality at just 14 years old. By the age of 16, he had transitioned into the kitchen, where he discovered his passion for cooking.

While working as a chef, Ryan trained to become a paramedic and briefly worked in the field after qualifying. However, after two weeks on duty, he realized his true passion lay in cooking and returned to the kitchen. He went on to win a global cooking competition, the Super Yacht Scholarship. This took him to a leading maritime academy in England and followed by further culinary training in France.

Since then, Ryan has had the privilege of cooking in numerous countries aboard a wide range of yachts, from 90-meter sailing vessels to charter catamarans. He takes pride in engaging with guests on a personal level, allowing him to tailor each dining experience and ensure every meal exceeds expectations.

Outside of work, Ryan is a ping pong champion and never travels without his paddles.

Ryan and Ellen met while working together onboard a superyacht in the Caribbean islands. Their love for traveling is what brought them together and they continue to build a strong relationship. Together, life is one big adventure.

Qualifications:
STCW, Bluewater
Eng Medical 1
Serve Safe Certification, Food Safety Guys, Minnesota 2015
AHA Healthcare Provider CPR Certification Oakland Community College, Michigan 2013
Voted ‘Most Valuable Employee of the Year’ at West End Tavern, Traverse City 2016
Voted ‘Best Catering Company’ at Distinctive Catering and Events by Minnesota Bride Magazine 2015
2017 Won the Chef Super Yacht Scholarship with Dockwalk

First Mate: Ellen Kay-Shuttleworth
Ellen comes from both English and Filipino backgrounds and grew up in the beautiful coastal town of Knysna, South Africa. Growing up in a culturally diverse family, her parents instilled a strong sense of adventure and a love for travel from an early age. These experiences inspired her to explore the world and ultimately led her into the yachting industry.

She holds a BA in Visual Communications, majoring in Graphic Design, and enjoys bringing her creativity to life through flower arrangements, table styling and themed dining experiences. Ellen also has a passion for creating memorable moments for guests through attentive service, as well as her appreciation for good food and wine.

In addition, Ellen has completed her RYA Yachtmaster and is eager to join in when hoisting the sails. With previous experience as a deck/stew on superyachts, she enjoys being active outdoors, participating in water sports and discovering the beauty of the Caribbean alongside guests.

Qualifications:
STCW 10 (incl. PDSD)
Level 2 Food and Hygiene
Eng Medical 1
RYA Yachtmaster Coastal Sailing and Power RYA Powerboat Level 2
RYA Personal Watercraft Certificate
RYA VHF Radio