Temporary Crew of Koru on Esperanza through December 2020.

Cpt. Keith Allen

Keith has always had an adventurous spirit, inherited from an extremely nomadic family, mostly spread between Kenya, the U.K., U.S.A. and of course Australia, where he grew up. He has been fortunate enough to have been raised as a well travelled youth which enabled him to grow into someone who can build rapport and friendships with people from many different walks of life and cultures. A trait invaluable when considering the multicultural and close-knit conditions living and working aboard a yacht.

Keith has sailed around all of the windward isles, from St Maarten to Grenada; the Dutch Caribbean, Panama, the Andalusian coast of Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Croatia and the Greek Islands in the Saronic Gulf of the Mediterranean. He has also spent time working on a superyacht that sailed up the east coast of the United States from Fort Lauderdale to Rhode Island as well as around Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard but realized his heart and true passion was in sailing and smaller boats. Keith's favorite part about skippering on yachts is hunting for unique bays and the little hidden gems on the islands; from the best beach bars to reefs full of life that can only be reached by boat.

Keith is a certified divemaster and free diver and loves hunting for fresh spiny lobster to serve, butterflied and grilled in his signature style paired with one of his craft cocktails. A passionate photographer, he loves providing memories to guests that will last a lifetime and offers several packages for guests to choose from to ensure no moment is missed. Whether it’s chauffeuring guests to dinner by tender, or towing them with tube or wakeboard, you are in safe and capable hands with Keith at the helm.


Chef/Mate Melissa Kodman

Born and raised in Arizona, Melissa has always longed to explore the world. Annual trips to Hawaii with her family gave her an initial taste for travel and adventure. After graduating from business school she began a corporate job but soon after decided to leave her desk behind. With just the bag on her back she travelled to an idyllic balkan country, Croatia. Here she fell in love with European traditions, local produce, crystal clear water, and a life on the ocean. Three years later and she’s worked in Croatia, Greece, Montenegro, and the Virgin Islands. Through her work-and-travel lifestyle she's seen almost thirty countries on five different continents. The Virgin Islands has easily become her second home. Through the community of locals and sailors alike she has learned of all the best hidden gems this paradise has to offer. When she's not in the galley creating masterpieces you can find her diving into the turquoise blues of the Caribbean.

Melissas passion for food began in her family's kitchen and evolved to hosting lavish dinner parties. She loves not only the culinary experience but also sharing stories and life experiences. The opportunity to see so many places and different cultures has greatly influenced Melissa’s cooking. She tells a story with each dish she makes. Melissa loves to incorporate fresh, local, and nutritious ingredients. Cooking for so many different people has allowed her to cater to any dietary restriction, allergy, or preference in order to create the perfect menu just for you!

Fun, young, upbeat and experienced. Keith and Mel will take your vacation to the next level. Whether you are looking for an action packed week of Watersports, diving and adventure or a calm, laid back and serene holiday; Keith and Mel have got it covered.