SEA DANCER

Crew Profile

Captain John-Paul “JP” Dunaway
USCG Master, Unlimited Tonnage • First-Class Pilot, Houston Ship Channel • Masters Upon Oceans

Texas-born and fourth-generation mariner, Captain JP grew up in a family of boat builders and seafarers. Entranced by his grandfather’s tales of far-flung voyages, he built his first “vessel” at eight—a raft inspired by Mark Twain. With a bedsheet sail sewn by his mother and a closet-rod mast stepped by his grandfather, JP learned early how tides, wind, and imagination can turn water into freedom. That spark set the course for a life less ordinary.

Today he holds the highest maritime credentials and has piloted more than 12,000 ships through some of the world’s most challenging and breathtaking waters. Fluent in three languages and seasoned by years spent living in the US & British Virgin Islands and Grenada, JP blends deep-water professionalism with island soul.

Step aboard Sea Dancer and you’ll find more than a captain—you’ll meet a natural teacher eager to share the art of sail trim, knot-tying, and the thrill of “tanker surfing” a ship’s wake. Whether paddle-boarding at sunrise, diving vibrant reefs, or finding zen on a foredeck yoga mat, Captain JP delights in revealing hidden Caribbean jewels and secret hideaways to every guest.

“The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.”
— Jacques Yves Cousteau




Chef Kendra Wilt
​Chef Kendra is passionate about preparing delicious food and is experienced with entertaining guests rooted in her Latina background. Born and raised in Midwest Ohio, where her father is from, her Panamanian mother allowed her the space and grace to work in the kitchen at a very young age. Entertaining friends is a favorite activity, and pleasing people's palates is the goal. Kendra enjoys traveling, meeting new people, and discovering savory recipes from around the world. She is especially fond of Mediterranean cuisine, with healthy eating in mind. Previously, as a baker and young mother, Cake by Kendra made special occasion cakes for weddings, anniversaries, and birthdays. Especially memorable is making her favorite flourless chocolate cake covered in homemade dark chocolate fondant she made for a gluten-free bride and her daughter Natalia's quinceañera birthday. As a mother of a daughter with gluten allergies, Kendra has learned to prepare food catering to food allergies. Living in Panama, her mother's native country, for over seven years allowed her many opportunities to expand her palate from the Midwest to her Caribbean roots.

Kendra has a keen sense of taste to ensure her food is well seasoned and packed with flavor.Kendra loves everything sand & sea, and while on the boat, she can fulfill her dream of having a restaurant, only it is floating with special guests she can spoil for a week by providing nutritious and delicious meals. Her small town Ohio neighbors will remember Kendra for making her delectable Cinnamon Rolls to raise funds for her study trip to France. She is fully bilingual in English and Spanish, and can communicate in French. She loves outdoor activities, from hiking, cycling,swimming, snorkeling, and especially stand up paddle boarding (SUP). Kendra is well-rounded and studied, holding her B.A. in Latin American and Caribbean Studies with Business from Florida State University, her Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) designation from American College, and,most recently, obtaining her M.A. in Teaching from Marian University. Now, she is excited to be chartering out of the beautiful Grenadines, as Grenada is her great-grandparents' country of origin,known as the Spice Island, and for its chocolate.