MEET THE CREW

Captain Daniel Dawson & Chef David Hedgcock

Captain Daniel Dawson grew up in Michigan and Colorado coming from a four generation commercial construction family. Carrying on the family tradition, Dan joined his father's company and worked his way up to job foreman working on large commercial projects. Growing up, he sailed on family yachts and chartered in the Florida Keys. Dan soon came to realize that owning his own charter yacht in the Caribbean was where his heart belonged. Wanting to do things right, Dan attended the Professional Mariners Program at Chapman's School of Seamanship and added a PADI Dive Master certification to further his education. Leisure activities also include backpacking, Mountain Biking, rock climbing and hiking. Upon finishing school, Dan purchased Mauna Loa where he worked as first mate before taking over as captain. Whether it be snorkeling, diving, hiking or just sitting and reading a book, Dan is eager to make it a memorable vacation for his guests.

Chef David Hedgcock was born in Iowa and raised in Minnesota. He moved to Colorado to attend college and be closer to the mountains for winter sports. After college he began a successful sales and marketing career. At one point, David headed the international division of a resort marketing company. Driven by a passion for cooking, he opened a company that catered functions for 2 to 2000 people. To further his culinary experience, David graduated from the School of Culinary Arts at the Colorado Institute of Arts. With his degree, he continued his catering business and was a personal chef for several clients. In addition to cooking, David spends his time between his two sons and his antique automobile. While on board the Mauna Loa, you will savor fare from the world over. For Chef David, the cuisine's appearance is just as important as its taste. David's top priority is to gastronomically excite and please his guests.

The team of Dan Dawson and David Hedgcock are delightful, charming and caring. As soon as you step aboard Mauna Loa you will feel at home. The team is truly dedicated to making their guest's time aboard one they will never forget. So come and join one of the Caribbean's most popular yachts and enjoy the vacation of a lifetime.