crew
The Captain
Captain Travis Ahlf (American)
Travis grew up in Seattle and started his seagoing career in 2005 onboard cruise ships. In 2009, Travis joined his first yacht and spent the subsequent years working his way up through the ranks under the mentorship of illustrious Captains. Travis is a licensed 3,000gt Master. His welcoming demeanor, enthusiasm for travel, and adept leadership lends perfectly to his role as Captain. He looks to exceed expectations by creating an unforgettable holiday from the moment guests step onboard.
Waters Cruised: Mediterranean, Caribbean, Atlantic Ocean, Northern European, U.S. West Coast, New England, Alaska, Iceland.
Hobbies: Travelling, camping, rock climbing, any activity that involves his dog.
DECK DEPARTMENT
You, as a Guest, might notice them climbing the mast to change the courtesy flag, polishing the stainless handrails to a blinding gleam, or assisting the Captain with moving the vessel… ultimately, the mission of STARFIRE’s Deck Crew is to provide you with safe passage from port to port in total comfort throughout your stay.
The Deck Crew can also be counted on for some fun in the sun. They will facilitate your entertainment with jet skis, wakeboards, kayaks, ski bobs, STARFIRE’s Hinckley tender or a cocktail on a secluded beach. They are the keepers of the hidden island gems… the secret beach hideouts.
First Officer
Oliver Leonard (Canadian)
Growing up on the shores of Lake Ontario in Canada, sailing became an integral part of Ollie’s life from an early age, instilling in him a deep love for the sea and maritime adventures. He pursued his academic interests and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Geography from Wilfrid Laurier University. During his college years, he was drawn to geography’s link with oceanography, which fueled his desire to explore the world’s vast oceans.
With over a decade of experience in the yachting industry, Ollie has sailed across the globe, covering the Indian Ocean, Pacific, Caribbean, and Mediterranean regions. He has navigated through diverse and challenging conditions, enhancing his proficiency in handling various types of vessels.
When he is not at sea, he can be found exploring new places, and immersing himself in various cultures worldwide. Ollie is a keen surfer, however, also enjoys golf, mountain biking, and hiking.
Bosun
Dylan Hodgson (British)
Hailing from the scenic Lake District in the UK, Dylan brings a strong maritime background and a sharp eye for detail to his role as Bosun aboard M/Y Starfire. He joined the vessel in April 2025 and has embraced the unique challenges and character that come with working on a classic, well-traveled yacht.
Dylan began his yachting career in 2020, following four years of service in the Royal Navy where he specialized in logistics—a foundation that provided discipline, leadership, and a deep understanding of vessel operations.
Dylan is committed to advancing his career through continued training and certifications. Off the water, he’s a sports and music enthusiast who enjoys live events, running, and staying active wherever the boat takes him.
Deckhand
Dylon Hamilton-Hoskins (South African)
Mike was born in Brazil and spent the first few years of his childhood among the beautiful beaches on the northeast side of the country. He then moved to the island of St Barth to start his studies, and later completed his Baccalaureate in Economics in Biarritz, France.
After observing the yachting environment in St Barth, Mike decided to pursue a career in yachting. He completed his Yachtmaster in 2019 and began working on both sail and motor yachts, with the goal of one day becoming a captain.
Throughout his life, Mike developed a strong relationship with the ocean and began surfing at a young age, reaching a competitive level. He also developed a passion for travel, exploring extensively around the world and seeking out adventures.
Deckhand
Matthew Knapp (South African)
Coming from the scenic coastal town of Ballito, South Africa, Matthew grew up immersed in the ocean lifestyle. From sunrise to sunset, he could be found in the water.
With a natural love for watersports and a vibrant, easygoing personality, Matt thrives on creating memorable guest experiences—whether it’s teaching new skills, offering encouragement, or simply bringing laughter to every day onboard.
Matthew’s early experience included a Red Sea crossing enroute to Asia, igniting a spirit of adventure. He’s known for his high standards, hard work, and unmatched energy— especially when it comes to washdowns, which he claims are among his favorite tasks!
INTERIOR DEPARTMENT
Chief Stewardess
Rebecca Schroth (American)
Hailing from Rhode Island, “The Ocean State,” Rebecca has always had a deep love for the water. Before joining the yachting industry, Rebecca earned her Master’s Degree in literacy education and spent eight years as an Elementary Teacher in both the U.S. and New Zealand. While she loved teaching, her true passion lies in hospitality, travel, and creating exceptional guest experiences.
Since transitioning to yachting, Rebecca has flourished as a Chief Stewardess, expertly managing busy charter and private yacht programs. She has cruised extensively through New England, the Bahamas, Caribbean, and completed transatlantic crossings to the Canary Islands, Scotland, and Norway. Known for her professionalism, leadership, and attention to detail, Rebecca ensures flawless interior operations and five-star service aboard Starfire.
Outside of work, she stays active with fitness, tennis, swimming, snorkeling, and long walks. Personable and dedicated, Rebecca brings warmth, organization, and enthusiasm to every charter.
Second Stewardess
Danielle Damonse (Canadian)
Hailing from Toronto, Canada, Danielle is a proud supporter of the Blue Jays and cherishes the tradition of attending games with her father whenever she’s home.
A natural adventurer, Danielle spends much of her free time traveling the world—sampling new cuisines, immersing herself in diverse cultures, and capturing unforgettable moments through her camera lens. It was during her travels that she discovered the world of yachting.
With a strong background in Toronto’s vibrant hospitality scene, Danielle found a seamless transition into yachting as a stewardess. Her passion for service and attention to detail are matched by her love of mixology—so don’t hesitate to challenge her cocktail-making skills! Danielle takes pride in delivering top-tier service and brings enthusiasm, professionalism, and a warm personality to every charter experience.
Stewardess
Tessa Lye (British)
Tessa brings a unique blend of experience and professionalism to Starfire. An accomplished athlete, Tessa carries forward the discipline, resilience, and team spirit developed through athletics into every aspect of her yachting career.
With experience serving members The Royal Family, celebrities, and other high-profile guests, she delivers top tier hospitality with grace and discretion. Her foundation spans luxury service, nannying for private families, and working as an assistant yacht broker.
Onboard, Tessa excels in guest interaction, table service, detailing, and organization. Energetic, proactive, and always meticulous, Tessa is a key part of the Starfire experience.
GALLEY DEPARTMENT
While pondering the idea of chartering STARFIRE, you might dream of white beaches, turquoise clear waters, a luxurious cabin and sun-soaking relaxation and fun. Yet, when you leave STARFIRE all you can think about is getting that oh-so-divine recipe from STARFIRE’s talented culinary Chefs!
Special requests are always met with rave reviews. STARFIRE’s Chefs will only be satisfied if they fulfill all of your personal dietary dreams.
Head Chef
April Oden (American)
Chef April is a passionate and versatile culinary professional with over eight years of experience in superyacht galleys and more than a decade in the yachting industry. Her cuisine is inspired by global flavors and driven by a love for fresh, locally sourced ingredients— offering guests a dynamic blend of inventive recipes and comforting classics.
With a strong background in hospitality, excellent galley management skills, and a calm, adaptable presence, April excels in high-paced charter environments.
A lifelong sailor with over 25 years on the water, along with extensive experience in diving and kiteboarding, April is no stranger to the rhythm of life at sea. She’s also a certified yoga teacher, bringing balance and mindfulness to both her cooking and crew culture. Always seeking new challenges, Chef April is dedicated to elevating the culinary experience on board with heart, precision, and creativity.
Sous Chef
Tatum Baily (American)
Tatum brings a vibrant blend of creativity and discipline to the galley, with a background in luxury yacht service and professional culinary training from Ashburton Cookery School.
After several years as a stewardess, Tatum transitioned into the galley full-time, previously serving as 3rd Chef on the 83m M/Y Alfa Nero, where she prepared diverse, flavorful meals for 28 crew and supported guest service for large events.
Passionate about hearty, health-forward cuisine, Tatum draws inspiration from Mediterranean, Southeast Asian, Mexican, and Caribbean flavors. She thrives in high-pressure environments and is eager to keep learning under experienced Head Chefs.
Outside the galley, Tatum enjoys diving, surfing, ceramics, and staying active—always bringing energy and positivity to the team.
ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Chief Engineer
Colby Martino (American)
Colby hails from the beautiful green mountains of Vermont, United States. He grew up around several freshwater lakes, where he spent a lot of his childhood growing up, rousing his curiosity of the water from a young age. During these young adult years, he also developed a keen interest in mechanics, working on equipment and miscellaneous toys, which drove him to enroll in Vermont Technical College, ultimately graduating with an associate degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology.
In 2012 he had an opportunity to join the yachting industry and has never looked back. Colby has collectively worked on 6 different vessels over the years, and in 2018 he successfully became a fully qualified Chief Engineer.
Colby has also successfully earned his FAA Private Pilot’s License (airplane) and is a certified PADI Rescue Diver. During his free time, he enjoys water skiing, wakeboarding, snow skiing, fishing, and photography, as well as travelling to and exploring new places, the most notable being: The Panama Canal, and Southeast Alaska.
Second Engineer
Bram Smoor (Dutch)
Born into a yachting family and raised on the water, Bram was destined for a life at sea. With a background in maritime engineering and a Second Engineer <3000kW license, he brings a solid blend of hands-on experience and technical precision to M/Y Starfire.
Bram has worked on motor yachts, sailing yachts, and he also gained commercial experience through cadetships aboard cargo ships which strengthened his understanding of large-scale marine engineering systems.
Passionate about yachting and engineering alike, he’s always ready to take on new challenges and support safe, smooth operations at sea.