CAPTAIN GRAHAM & CHEF/MATE KRISTIANN
Your Captain and Chef are native Texans who have been married since 2007. Avid travelers, Kristiann and Graham have lived on four continents and visited over fifty countries. Their experiences have taught them that great vacations are made up of many small details. Consummate hosts, Graham and Kristiann delight in creating memories for their guests.
After 10 years in the corporate world, the Gips reached a point where they could focus on what they love to do most: travel, host guests, and sail. In 2015, they purchased a 44’ catamaran, Allende, upon which they began their chartering career and sailed over 30,000 nautical miles. After seven successful seasons aboard Allende, Graham and Kristiann were thrilled to upgrade their charter program aboard the luxurious Colibrí.
Both Graham and Kristiann are licensed by the United States Coast Guard and are CPR/First Aid certified. They are fully vaccinated for COVID-19. They will be joined by a third crew member for the 2023-2024 season.
CAPTAIN GRAHAM
Graham is an engineer by training who spent a successful career in the oil and gas industry. While working abroad, he learned to sail on a 20ft racing dinghy with Kristiann as crew. They raced weekly for several years, topped the local podium, and earned the chance to compete internationally.
While he has a competitive streak, Graham is a detail-oriented and safety-conscious sailor who puts the comfort of his guests first. He knows the islands well and can craft an itinerary that suits everyone aboard. When the anchor is set each evening, Graham then turns his attention to crafting cocktails to your taste.
CHEF KRISTIANN
Before joining the yachting industry, Kristiann ran a successful catering company. She honed her culinary skills by accommodating a wide variety of preferences and dietary needs each day. In 2021, Kristiann further refined her skills by training at the acclaimed Ashburton Cookery School in England.
Kristiann loves to combine gourmet ingredients with local delicacies for new twists on classic dishes. She works with the Captain to design a menu that perfectly complements your sailing itinerary. When she’s not in the galley, Kristiann enjoys escorting guests on snorkel safaris.
STEWARDESS/DIVE INSTRUCTOR
While earning her degree in Geography, Matilda worked as a water sports instructor in the UK taking guests paddle-boarding, kayaking, and cliff-jumping. Unwilling to give up a life on the water, Matilda then worked a Mediterranean season onboard a 50m yacht. She achieved her PADI instructor qualification in Thailand and loves sharing her knowledge of diving and marine life. Her knack for teaching will inspire confidence as you try new activities aboard!