Crew Profiles

Captain Richard, and Co-Captain / First Mate Shannon are a married couple living an adventurous life as sailing professionals! They have been Abby’s one and only crew and have treated her with the utmost care. They are originally from South Africa, have two sons who are also sailing professionals, and boast seven years of experience as charter captains on 170+ charters in the BVI.

Their knowledge of the islands, commitment to providing a five-star guest experience, and above-and-beyond care for your itinerary truly set your experience apart. Sail between islands, lounge on the beach, or explore colorful coral reefs. Linger over long walks on secluded beaches, sip cocktails in charming bars like the Soggy Dollar and Foxy's, and sandy restaurants like Cooper Island Beach Club and Saba Rock. Visit the Anegada beaches, jump off the Willy T, and play yard games in the sand at the B Line. Richard and Shannon work diligently to ensure the comfort, safety, and enjoyment of every guest!

It is also a very luxurious vacation as Shannon Hallett (who is also a sailor in her own right,) is a phenomenal chef and can match her menu to your dietary needs. She is quite adept at finding delicious, fresh produce on the islands as well as fish and meat. A sumptuous dinner is never over until it is finished with some type of delectable dessert.

Chef Shannon crafts wholesome and flavorful meals for an exclusive on-board dining experience. Enjoy a customized culinary journey that caters to your taste and health requirements, highlighting fresh, local produce and global gastronomic treasures. From a scenic gourmet breakfast to a lavish seafood banquet or a relaxing sunset cocktail session, each dish is a celebration meant to be relished with loved ones. With over 170 charters across the British Virgin Islands on various 48-50 foot catamarans, Chef Shannon brings seven years of expertise to your table.

The adventure part though is what sets Abby Normal To apart from other charter yachts. Part of this is due to the fact that both Richard and Shannon are very familiar not only with sailing, but also with the nature of the islands: the weather and wind, the layout of the area and the many hidden gems the islands hold.

When Captain Richard is sailing the boat he is quite happy to have company sitting next to him at the helm as he explains the processes of sailing a 50 foot catamaran, whether it’s a short sail across Sir Francis Drake Channel on the first evening or a sunrise sail to Anegada. Shannon can show interested sailors how to anchor or how to hook a mooring ball. If you are not up for learning to sail, you can always relax on the beanbags on the tramp, sun up on the u-shaped couch on the flybridge, or read in a nice shady spot.

Captain Richard will sail you to snorkel sites that are off the beaten path, to pristine beaches for lunch and a swim or to explore the RMS Rhône. Shannon can set you up for island tours, scuba diving or even a day diving for conch and making your own ceviche.

Richard and Shannon have sailed Abby Normal To since her first launch in the summer of 2019 and have taken exquisite care of her. They will guide you on the adventure of a lifetime.