Your Crew
Jacob Bonds Head Captain
Crew Profile
Both crew members hold BVI work permits until 10/10/2025. Crew is COVID vaccinatedJake’s affable good nature, easy-going personality and caring demeanor have made him many, lifelong friends. He is an excellent captain and holds a USCG Master Captain 100-ton certification. He is also a true Renaissance man with an astonishing array of skills and talents. As an adult, Jake won many tournaments playing rugby for years with the Highwaymen Rugby Club. He was a licensed General Contractor and Real Estate Broker in California. Always good with his hands, he is a Master Carpenter/cabinetmaker/furniture maker/boat builder. (He put these skills to great use as a volunteer rebuilding after IRMA in Sint Maarten.)
He can play the guitar, ukulele and piano, and build giant, 6-foot sandcastles. Jake is also a PADI Dive Instructor and SV Dragonfly is stocked with brand new dive gear. He loves showing people the wonders of the underwater environment here in the Caribbean. The fun factor on an interactive charter aboard SV Dragonfly is tremendous!
Jake was born in Pittsburgh, Penn, raised with his brother outside of Atlanta, GA. and moved to California at age 15. With typical humor he says that this tri-state upbringing “resulted in a progressive spirit mixed with southern charm.” The Pacific Ocean inspired his first dreams of sailing and living on the sea. He was 16 and his best friend in high school lived on a sailboat in Sausalito, CA. This playful introduction to seamanship quickly became a lifetime passion.
Jake lives by the motto “Be the random acts of kindness you wish to see in the world.” He cares deeply about the people that come into his life and goes out of his way for them. He wants new friends coming aboard to know; “We live on the boat and consider it our home. We want our guests to feel like it is their home as well while they are with us. We want to welcome them into our lives so they can enjoy what we get to see and do every day.” Welcome to paradise aboard SV Dragonfly!
Chef Stef doesn’t just cook—she creates magic on a plate. Her passion for food is woven into every dish, from the first sizzle in the pan to the final, artful drizzle of sauce. She believes that great food isn’t just about flavors; it’s about connection, comfort, and celebration. And aboard SV Dragonfly, every meal is a love letter to her guests.
Born and raised on a farm in Santa Rosa, California, Stef’s culinary roots run deep. As soon as she could hold a spoon, she was in the kitchen, standing on tiptoes beside her Nona, Mom, and Dad, learning the art of scratch-made meals. Fresh pastas, slow-simmered sauces, garden-picked vegetables—these weren’t just ingredients; they were a way of life. Her childhood was filled with rolling green fields, homegrown produce, and family feasts that stretched into the evening.
That same passion and authenticity now shine in every dish she serves on Dragonfly. Stef doesn’t just cook meals—she curates experiences. Her guests swoon over dishes like braised beef short ribs in rich red wine ragu with pimento cheese grits and her famous Peruvian chicken over fragrant green rice, paired with crispy tostones, sweet plantains, and a vibrant green sauce that keeps people coming back for more. Every bite tells a story, every plate is made with love, and every meal feels like home.
And Stef’s magic doesn’t stop in the galley. She’s a warm and welcoming hostess, an expert first mate, and a patient dive master, always ready to guide guests through their next underwater adventure or help them master the paddleboards. Whether she’s sharing cooking tips, swapping recipes, or just making sure everyone has exactly what they need, Stef’s goal is simple: to make sure her guests aren’t just having a great time—they’re living their best lives.
So come hungry, come happy, and get ready for a culinary journey you’ll never forget. Chef Stef is here to feed your soul—one incredible meal at a time.
Jake and Stef have been together for 15 years and married for 9. They worked together for several years in Northern California before starting their adventure together in the Virgin Islands. The kindness and love they share with each other and those around them is palpable.
They have a blended family consisting of three grown children. A daughter (28) in Seattle Wa, a son (25) in Southern Ca and the youngest son (22) in Northern Ca. They purchased a 5th wheel in the spring of 2023 so they could travel the states during their off time and visit family on the West coast. They are extremely proud of their children and will happily talk about them and share stories.
When they have time off together you can often find them underwater exploring a new or favorite dive site. They often say "I'm the happiest when underwater". They also love to visit with other boat crews, take Parker on adventures, or hang out and recoup while watching a movie.
Security/Cuddle Officer "Parker”
Parker is a well-behaved, adorable 35#, 4-year-old Portuguese Water Dog. He has hair rather than fur, so he does not shed and is hypoallergenic! He has dedicated his entire life to cuddling, swimming, paddle boarding, and being charming. He enjoys dingy rides to shore for potty breaks (he is boat-trained), naps on guests' feet, long walks on the beach, and picking up food that has fallen on the floor. Parker has never met a stranger and he might just be your favorite crew member! He is a Mama’s boy and follows Chef Stef whenever possible.
Parker has been on a charter boat since he was 9 weeks old. He has made over 400 guest friends in his first 3.5 years of duty! He loves going to the dock to visit his friends from other boats, they always have LOTS of love to share. Parker is a great comfort companion, he has a knack for making sure everyone is smiling, happy, and enjoying their vacation. Parker believes he is a lifeguard; he keeps a close eye on water activities and prefers a hand to touch a float at all times. Your safety is his #1 priority!
Parker’s playful and affectionate nature has connected him to everyone he meets. He has become integral to Captain Jake & Chef Stef’s sailing crew. Whether lounging on deck or splashing in the water, Parker's presence brings a sense of joy and companionship to all those around him.
From Parker, “I love treats, kind people, kids of all ages, and other dogs. I hope to bring you as much happiness and comfort on charter as your pets do at home.”
Join Parker on his sailing adventure and watch the bond between humans and animals that eclipses all boundaries.
**Parker can be boarded upon request**