Meet Our Team, Captains & Crew

Our team of licensed captains and experienced crew bring a wealth of diverse backgrounds—from racing inland lakes and cruising the Caribbean to delivering international charters and teaching new sailors. With thousands of nautical miles under their belts, they’re united by a shared passion for the sailing lifestyle and a commitment to delivering exceptional, safe, and personalized experiences on the water. Whether you’re seeking hands-on learning, local insight, or just the perfect place to unwind, our crew is here to make your time aboard unforgettable.

Owners Shawn & Mary

Location: Bahamas – Exumas

Bio (short version): Shawn and Mary are lifelong adventurers with decades of experience cruising the Bahamas and Florida Keys aboard luxury catamarans. Passionate about helping first-time sailors gain confidence, they offer their hands-on experience and authentic insight into the coastal cruising lifestyle. Whether you’re here to relax or learn, Shawn and Mary will make your experience unforgettable.

Captain Jose Velez

Location: Florida Keys

Experience: 200-ton USCG Master | 30+ years boating | USVI & BVI charters
Specialty: Custom charter design, guest experience, safety-first instruction
Bio: (short version) With over three decades on the water and a career that spans sailing, engineering, and entrepreneurship, Captain Jose combines deep knowledge with a relaxed, professional style. From the USVI to the Florida Keys, he’s helped guests craft unforgettable, custom sailing experiences—with a special passion for history, nature, and teaching. Whether you want to learn the ropes or just relax, Jose will make sure your charter is smooth, safe, and uniquely yours.

Captain Tanner Dixon & Crew Selina Madden

Location: Florida Keys

Experience: 10+ years liveaboard & cruising
Specialty: Hands-on sailing education, vessel orientation, Florida Keys local knowledge
Bio: (short version) Tanner and Selina have spent the last decade living, working, and sailing full-time aboard their own cruising sailboats. From the Florida Keys to Central America and the Bahamas, this passionate couple brings deep expertise and an infectious love for sailing. Whether it’s your first time aboard or your first taste of the cruising lifestyle, they’ll help you learn, relax, and experience the magic of life under sail.

Full Bios

⛵Meet the Owners: Shawn & Mary

Your Bahamas Guides to the Cruising Life Aboard The Cathouse

Shawn and Mary are more than just seasoned sailors—they’re passionate guides eager to share the beauty, rhythm, and joy of coastal cruising with new catamaran enthusiasts.

Shawn first discovered sailing as a young boy, introduced to the water by his parents at the age of five. By eight, he was enrolled in sailing school on Michigan’s Coldwater Lake, quickly moving into racing Sunfish, Rebels, and Hobie Cats in weekend regattas. Now, with over 50 years of boating experience behind him—including time spent on hundreds of sailing and motor vessels across the Great Lakes, Alaska, the Florida Keys, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean—Shawn has truly lived a life shaped by wind, water, and adventure.

Over the past decade, Shawn and Mary have logged thousands of hours cruising aboard 50+ foot catamarans through the turquoise waters of the Florida Keys and Bahamas. They are firm believers in hands-on learning and love helping new catamaran lovers gain real-world ocean sailing knowledge—offering not just a luxury escape, but an immersive introduction to the coastal sailing lifestyle.

When not on board The Cathouse, Shawn and Mary can be found enjoying time with their grandchildren in Michigan, cruising the western states on their motorcycles, or flying their floatplane into the wilds of Alaska.

With warmth, patience, and a deep love for life on the water, Shawn and Mary are excited to welcome you aboard and help you start your own sailing journey in the stunning Exumas.

⚓ Meet Your Captain: Jose Velez

Professional. Personable. Passionate about creating unforgettable FL Keyes sailing experiences.

Captain Jose Velez brings a rare blend of top-tier maritime credentials, deep regional knowledge, and a warm, professional presence to every charter he leads. With a 200-ton USCG Master License for both power and sail—plus multiple endorsements and STCW certification—Jose’s foundation as a captain is built on decades of experience, safety, and leadership on the water.

Jose’s journey began with a childhood full of boating, water skiing, and scuba diving in upstate New York. As an Eagle Scout and former Waterfront Director at summer camp, his dedication to water safety and mentorship started early. His first professional boating roles took him to the U.S. Virgin Islands, where he captained large vessels carrying up to 349 passengers daily, later expanding into term charters across the British Virgin Islands. His focus on guest experience, discretion, and smooth scheduling earned him repeat clients who valued both fun and professionalism.

With a strong passion for local history and the natural world, Jose’s charters often highlight the unique environmental and cultural features of the Florida Keys and surrounding waters. Whether you’re looking for laid-back sailing, island hopping, or a more in-depth educational journey, Captain Jose loves tailoring each trip to match your pace and personality.

Beyond the helm, Jose holds a BS in Quantitative Methods of Management and spent years as a successful engineer, entrepreneur, and land developer. That same attention to detail, planning, and client satisfaction now fuels his approach to sailing. He brings a wealth of practical knowledge, excellent communication skills, and a mindset focused on making your charter smooth, safe, and extraordinary.

Jose thrives on helping new and aspiring cruisers gain firsthand experience with the catamaran lifestyle—so whether it’s your first step aboard or your next adventure, he’s here to make sure it’s memorable in every way.

🌴 Meet Your Captains & Crew: Tanner & Selina

Your Hosts in the Florida Keys Aboard The Cathouse

Tanner and Selina are a dynamic duo with over a decade of full-time liveaboard and cruising experience, and they are passionate about helping newcomers discover the freedom and fun of the coastal sailing lifestyle.

Raised on the waters of Florida, Captain Tanner Dixon brings a lifetime of local knowledge and hands-on marine expertise. From his early days learning mechanics, fiberglass work, and boat detailing, Tanner combined his skills and love of the ocean into a life of sailing. After restoring and cruising his own Pearson Alberg 30, he met Selina—a fellow Floridian with a strong background in vessel management and boater safety. From the start, they shared a vision: live, work, and explore by sail.

Together, Tanner and Selina have refit, lived aboard, and cruised several vessels—most notably a custom steel Barens Seatrader that took them on a year-long voyage through Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala. Upon returning to the U.S., Tanner earned his USCG 100-Ton Master License with a towing endorsement, and they both made the Florida Keys their home base while continuing to work full-time in the marine industry.

Their wide-ranging experience includes sail and canvas repair, rigging, electrical, and vessel education. They’ve delivered boats for private owners and companies like Dream Yacht Charters and have helped countless new sailors learn the ropes, from boat orientation to full-day adventures under sail.

Whether you’re seeking your first taste of liveaboard cruising, dreaming of your own catamaran adventure, or just want to experience life under sail with two seasoned professionals, Tanner and Selina are ready to welcome you aboard and share their passion for sailing the Florida Keys, Dry Tortugas, and the Bahamas.

Stories from aboard The Cathouse

Tanner and Selina are the perfect combination of safety and hospitality onboard a sailing charter. Both are experienced sailors and both have unique talents.

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Tanner and Selina are the perfect combination of safety and hospitality onboard a sailing charter. Both are experienced sailors and both have unique talents. Captain Tanner excels at all facets of vessel security & safe operations, while Selina is focused on the comfort & happiness of the guests onboard. My wife & friends raved about Selina’s ability to keep a group happy and entertained with great cocktails and meals. You can expect top notch hospitality with these two!

Captain Jack Z.

Key West, FL

Stories from aboard The Cathouse

Our vacation aboard this beautiful 58 Ipanema “THE CATHOUSE” in the Bahamas was truly one of the most unforgettable trips we have ever taken!

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Our vacation aboard this beautiful 58 Ipanema “THE CATHOUSE” in the Bahamas was truly one of the most unforgettable trips we have ever taken!

The boat was beautiful, spacious, comfortable, and extremely well-maintained, but what truly made this experience so special was our captain and first mate.

Our captain knew the Bahamas incredibly well and took us to uncharted islands and secluded places that were spectacular to explore, and we would never have discovered them on our own. One of my favorite places we visited was Rachel’s Bubble Bath. It was such a unique and beautiful experience and definitely one of the highlights of our trip. We had the best time swimming in the bubbles and waves! It honestly felt like we had discovered our very own personal, ocean-sized bubble bath. We were laughing and having so much fun – it was one of those moments where you just stop and think, “How lucky are we to be here right now?”

I also loved snorkeling at “The Aquarium.” Swimming through the crystal-clear water with fish all around us, literally swimming alongside us, was absolutely amazing. It felt like we were part of their world. The fish were incredibly colorful, and watching the turtles gracefully float through the water was something I will never forget. And then there were the barracudas—just staring at you as you swam by! It was exciting, a little intimidating, and absolutely fascinating all at the same time.

These are the kinds of experiences you simply can't get from a typical vacation. It was an incredible opportunity to be surrounded by nature and experience the beauty of the Bahamas up close and in such a personal way.

Our captain's knowledge of the history of all the islands was also fascinating. He shared stories and information everywhere we went, which gave us a much deeper appreciation for the places we were visiting. His knowledge of the Bahamas really added another dimension to the entire trip.

And then there was the food! Our first mate prepared breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day, and the food was spectacular. She would ask us what we were craving or if we had any special requests, and she always delivered. Having the fresh catch of the day for dinner was one of our favorite parts. Everything was fresh, delicious, and beautifully prepared. We truly felt spoiled every day.

Between the breathtaking turquoise water, secluded islands, snorkeling with the fish, Rachel's Bubble Bath, incredible meals, fascinating history, and the peacefulness of sailing through the Bahamas, this was so much more than a vacation. It was an adventure and an experience we will remember for the rest of our lives.

The captain and first mate made us feel completely taken care of while still giving us the freedom to explore and experience the Bahamas in a way most people never get to.

We absolutely loved every minute of this trip and would highly recommend this beautiful Ipanema 58 catamaran “CATHOUSE” to anyone looking for a truly unforgettable Bahamas adventure. We are already dreaming about our next trip!

Michele & Nelson S.

Oregon, OH

Stories from aboard The Cathouse

What an adventure on S/V Cathouse! We flew into Georgetown Bahamas and were promptly met by our highly capable and experienced Captain and Crew.

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What an adventure on S/V Cathouse! We flew into Georgetown Bahamas and were promptly met by our highly capable and experienced Captain and Crew. Cathouse is impeccably appointed and stocked with everything one would need for a first-class adventure. The food was amazing! Lobster on demand as the captain would slip over the side and return with lobster and fresh fish daily. We were also invited to join in these endeavors daily. There is every piece of gear aboard one needs to venture above and below the sea from fishing, snorkeling, complete diving gear, paddle boards, fishing equipment and more. The trip will take you to all the best sights to see from Racheal’s bubble bath, the Grotto at Staniel Cay to hiking hilltop caves for an afternoon of exploration. The state rooms are immaculate, as is the entire vessel throughout. Everything one needs is provided for a relaxing, adventurous and comfortable voyage. The sunsets and the captain’s proprietary endless Rum Punch is the pinnacle to ending a fun filled day. This is truly a five-star sailing trip and once in a lifetime adventure. We will surely be booking again this winter.

Pete D.

Anchorage, AK

Stories from aboard The Cathouse

Our experience aboard The Cathouse was absolutely unforgettable! From start to finish, everything was first class.

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Our experience aboard The Cathouse was absolutely unforgettable! From start to finish, everything was first class. The captain and crew were exceptional—professional, friendly, knowledgeable, and always ready to make sure we had an incredible experience. The accommodations were first rate, incredibly comfortable, and made the boat feel like a true home away from home. The itinerary was fantastic, giving us the opportunity to see so many of the highlights of the British Virgin Islands while still leaving plenty of room for adventure. And there was certainly no shortage of it! From scuba diving and exploring the incredible underwater world to lobster fishing and discovering the beauty of the islands, every day brought something new and exciting. The Cathouse was perfectly appointed for every activity we wanted to do. The combination of an amazing crew, beautiful accommodations, a spectacular itinerary, and endless adventures made this a trip we’ll never forget. The Cathouse exceeded our expectations in every way, and we can’t wait to do it all again!

Scott & Jill M.

Knoxville, TN

Stories from aboard The Cathouse

Our two-week January adventure aboard the Cathouse, sailing from Nassau to Duncan Town, was truly unforgettable!

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Our two-week January adventure aboard the Cathouse, sailing from Nassau to Duncan Town, was truly unforgettable! The crew was exceptional, and our captain made sure we were part of the daily planning, offering wonderful options for activities and destinations. We fed pink iguanas, enjoyed a bonfire at Rachel’s Bubble Bath, paddle boarded, snorkeled (including an exciting octopus sighting!), hiked the islands, and explored the art trails. The food was delicious and varied, with fresh fish often going from the sea to our table the very same day. And while the adventures were amazing, we also loved the slower moments—relaxing on the shaded top deck with a cold drink, watching sunsets, enjoying the scenery, and visiting with friends. Our comfortable stateroom with a queen bed and private bath made for wonderful nights of sleep, although we hardly wanted to be inside with so much beauty outside! The Cathouse provided an incredible combination of adventure, relaxation, great food, and an amazing crew. It was a vacation we will always remember and highly recommend! ❤️

Jen & Louis M.

St George, UT

Stories from aboard The Cathouse

With Tanner at the helm I always felt safe.

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Recently widowed & a resident in the heart of the Florida Keys I don’t get out on the water nearly enough. I decided to plan an impromptu weekend with lifelong friends & take my late husband’s yacht out for a staycation! I knew my friends and I couldn’t be tasked with doing it on our own, so I hired Captain Tanner & Captain Selina to do so. In years past the knowledgeable couple have helped maintain the vessel, so I knew the pair were a good fit. With Tanner at the helm I always felt safe. My girlfriends and I weren’t sure where we wanted to go, so we left it up to the captain to create a fun itinerary that did not fail to disappoint. There wasn’t anything that Selina couldn’t do. She handled the lines on deck, teaching us girls a things or two. Met by her accommodating nature keeping us girls comfortable, well fed & entertained! I cannot say enough great things about this duo!

Sheryl H.

Marathon, FL

Stories from aboard The Cathouse

I had a fantastic experience aboard The Cathouse sailing through the Bahamas!

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I had a fantastic experience aboard The Cathouse sailing through the Bahamas! The boat was incredibly comfortable, with a great set of sails, and the crew was knowledgeable, adventurous, and wonderful to spend time with.

We explored some beautiful and remote areas of the Exumas and beyond, enjoyed hikes and island adventures, and spent plenty of time in that spectacular turquoise water. Exploring Thunderball Grotto, the underwater cave made famous by the James Bond film, was unforgettable! My personal favorite was snorkeling and getting to use a Hawaiian sling.

I also loved fishing while underway, and the food aboard was excellent, especially when we got to enjoy our fresh catches. There's nothing quite like eating fresh fish after a day of sailing and exploring the islands!

It was a wonderful combination of sailing, exploration, adventure, and good company. I'd happily sail aboard The Cathouse again!

Shelly T.