Crew Profiles
Captain Naya
With over five years of experience navigating the pristine waters of Kaua‘i, Hawai‘i, and Southeast Alaska, Captain Naya brings a calm, confident presence and a true passion for the sea to every charter. Her extensive background in both sailing and diving allows her to create immersive, unforgettable experiences—whether guests are seeking serenity in hidden coves or thrill-seeking adventure on and below the waterline.
Naya holds a USCG Merchant Mariner Credential, certifications from the American Sailing Association, and is both a PADI Freediver and Divemaster. Her technical skill and deep respect for the ocean make her not only a capable and safety-minded captain, but also a knowledgeable guide for exploring marine life, navigating local waters, and fostering guest confidence and comfort at sea.
Her leadership style is warm, attentive, and guest-focused. She believes that the best charter experiences come from a perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and genuine human connection. Guests appreciate her steady presence, thoughtful communication, and passion for creating moments that linger long after the voyage ends.
When she’s not on the water, Naya enjoys photography, jewelry making, hiking, reading, and—unsurprisingly—diving. With her wide-ranging interests, artistic eye, and deep maritime knowledge, Captain Naya is dedicated to delivering seamless, meaningful, and memorable charters for every guest aboard.
Chef Tiera
Chef Tiera brings a vibrant blend of Maui island roots, global inspiration, and heartfelt hospitality to the galley aboard Some Kind of Wonderful. Born and raised in Hawai‘i, she grew up surrounded by tropical abundance and developed a passion for cooking with fresh, organic produce and a true farm-to-table style.
Her menus are as colorful and diverse as her background. Guests can expect everything from creative vegan dishes bursting with flavor, to indulgent red meats marinated and cooked to perfection, to the freshest-caught seafood prepared with elegance. Tiera especially loves crafting bright ceviches, delicate sashimi, and tropical desserts that balance the natural sweetness of fruit with rich, indulgent touches.
Her flair extends beyond the plate—she’s known for mixing vibrant, island-inspired cocktails that pair perfectly with her meals and add a festive, refreshing note to every charter. With an eye for detail and a deep love for feeding people well, she curates every menu to reflect her guests’ preferences and to make each day onboard feel special.
Warm, creative, and always eager to share the aloha spirit, Tiera makes dining aboard Some Kind of Wonderful an experience that is both nourishing and indulgent—a true celebration of the sea and the islands.