Born and raised in St. Croix, Captain Mark Sperber’s connection to the sea runs deep. From an early age, he developed a passion for sailing the Caribbean’s turquoise waters, spending his youth racing both mono- and multihull vessels. This lifelong love of the ocean inspired him to launch his own successful water sports company on the island—one that continues to thrive today.

Mark’s maritime career is as dynamic as it is impressive. After years at the helm of private yachts in the Bahamas, he brought his expertise to the forefront during the Deepwater Horizon recovery, working with the Gulf’s largest subcontractor in the oil spill cleanup effort. Craving a return to adventure, he later owned and captained the famous 63-foot Peter Spronk racing catamaran, Jolly Mon, delivering unforgettable day charters throughout the Virgin Islands.

When Hurricane Maria struck, Mark knew it was time to come home. Now at the helm of Qara, he brings not only expert seamanship and island insight, but also a genuine enthusiasm for creating meaningful guest experiences. Whether he’s guiding Qara to secluded anchorages, sharing stories from a life spent at sea, or simply ensuring every detail is dialed in, Captain Mark approaches his role with professionalism, warmth, and a deep pride in his island roots.

His calm demeanor, seasoned leadership, and love for the water make him a trusted captain—and an essential part of the Qara experience.

Morgan has been an integral part of Qara for over five years, bringing together maritime expertise and refined hospitality in every charter. A licensed captain, accomplished mate, and Chief Stewardess, she pairs operational confidence with an intuitive understanding of elevated service.

From initial planning to final farewell, Morgan remains a steady and thoughtful presence. She curates personalized itineraries, collaborates on exceptional dining experiences, and ensures each detail unfolds seamlessly.

Originally from Connecticut, she moved to Brooklyn at 17 before transitioning into high-end hospitality management for luxury events. Her experience includes working at the renowned Michelin-starred restaurant, as well as planning five-star weddings and private milestone celebrations, where she developed a sharp eye for detail and a deep appreciation for fine dining service and cuisine.

During Covid, Morgan relocated to St. Croix, where her passion for the sea and hospitality naturally converged. Beginning on day boats and advancing through the maritime ranks, she built a strong foundation in vessel operations, safety, and guest experience — ultimately finding her home aboard Qara.

An adventurer at heart, she enjoys hiking, swimming, snorkeling, and diving, and shares that enthusiasm with guests. When not on charter, she embraces island life with a foster pup never far from her side.

Morgan’s approach is simple: to create charters that feel luxurious, personal, and effortlessly memorable.

Chef Nikki brings fourteen years of professional culinary experience, including more than a decade working throughout the Caribbean charter industry. After leaving her New England roots fifteen years ago for life in the islands, she has sailed extensively through the Virgin Islands and across the Windward and Leeward chains, developing a deep appreciation for the region’s culture, ingredients, and the lifestyle that defines charter living.

Her cooking style is globally influenced and ingredient-focused, with an emphasis on fresh, thoughtfully presented meals that feel both elevated and approachable. Nikki curates personalized menus for each charter, offering everything from refined multi-course dinners to relaxed, shareable meals that encourage connection and enjoyment. With a background in nutrition-informed cooking, she is comfortable accommodating dietary requests while ensuring every meal remains indulgent, balanced, and beautifully executed.

Nikki focuses on creating carefully crafted and memorable dining experiences that become a highlight of each charter. Her approach helps guests feel welcomed, celebrated, and encourages them to relax into the pace and pleasure of life aboard Qara.