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About Us

Our Crew

Our warm-hearted and knowledgeable crew have spent decades around the waters and islands of British Columbia. Each highly skilled in our own field, we share wisdom on secret spots, nature’s routines, and authentic connections with the local people. Our anticipatory service lets you focus on undisturbed family and friend bonding time.

Captain Colin Griffinson, Owner

Dublin, Ireland

Our resident storyteller and charismatic Captain holds a deep affection for wooden vessels, the open ocean, and the unique experiences when immersing himself in a combination of the two. A true explorer at heart with over five decades of sailing expertise. He loves to share his seafaring wisdom, insightful stories, and humour with both adults and children, making everyone laugh along the way.

Taylor King, Adventure Concierge

Williams Lake, BC

Taylor is a nature enthusiast who enjoys mountain biking, hiking with her dogs, lake fishing, and downhill skiing. As the Adventure Concierge, she is your go-to person for planning your dream Pacific Yellowfin expedition. She takes care of all your pre-trip details and communicates regularly with our onboard crew about your preferred preferences to ensure a smooth and unforgettable experience.

Ben Barter, Executive Chef & Relief Engineer

Salt Spring Island, BC

Ben’s journey on the Pacific Yellowfin began in 2015 as our Executive Chef, but his role has since evolved. He now alternates as executive chef or relief engineer, providing the crew with much-needed breaks. He affectionately refers to his relief crew shifts as “celebrity shifts”. Ben is known for combining international culinary knowledge with local ingredients to create impressive fusions.

Cassidy Bellavance, Stewardess & Deckhand

Salt Spring Island, BC

Cassidy grew up in the Gulf Islands, operating boats her whole life, making the ocean her favourite place. She has been busy acquiring her marine tickets toward her ultimate goal of becoming a captain one day. You’ll see Cassidy behind the scenes preparing our water toys for your safe enjoyment or driving the tender boats for your next Yellowfin adventure.

Scott Rempel, Engineer

Prince Rupert, BC

Scott, our Engineer, is quite familiar with these waters. He has lived on Vancouver Island and resides in a float house on Teakerne Arm in Desolation Sound. A dedicated seafarer, Scott enjoys all things water-related. He actively volunteers for Pacific salmon enhancement programs.

Neil Charlesworth, Deck Hand

New Westminster, BC

Neil is a versatile crew member who steps in wherever needed, covering deck duties, sommelier service, and guest care. With 23 years in hospitality as an award-winning Vancouver beverage director, he excels at anticipating guest needs and pairing exceptional BC wines with our chef’s creations. Neil’s favourite thing about BC is its natural beauty. Aboard the Pacific Yellowfin, his contagious energy shines as he loves witnessing the “wow” moments on guests’ faces—especially the kiddos—knowing these trips create memories that last a lifetime. Off duty, he relaxes with his partner, kids, and two dogs.

Evan Szabo, Relief Engineer & Deck Hand

Victoria, BC

A Small Vessel Machinery Operator training to be a Marine Engineer, Evan keeps our machinery running flawlessly. Raised in Victoria, his incredible background spans carpentry, tree planting, and restoring classic wooden boats as an apprentice shipwright. Having spent 120 days mastering a vessel with the exact same Atlas Imperial engines as the Yellowfin, he truly respects our ship as a living museum. Driven by pure zeal, Evan loves acting as our onboard “naturalist”, sharing his deep knowledge of BC’s wildlife and coastal lore with guests on this dream job. Off duty, you’ll find him enjoying arts and music or road-tripping to beautiful places with loved ones.

Abby Rothwell, Relief Stewardess

Salt Spring Island, BC

Abby is delighted to return to the Pacific Yellowfin as relief stewardess. Her love of the outdoors and being out on the water keeps drawing her back to our crew. After completing her Tourism Management Diploma in 2016 she soon fell in love with marine tourism. Abby is excited to welcome guests aboard and assist in creating unforgettable memories!

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