Meet Captain Derek
I wanted to write a short introduction about myself so you will know more about the captain. I’m Captain Derek and I came to Miami over 30 years ago from the Caribbean island of Trinidad to go to college. I fell in love with Miami and its people and made it my home. As a result I have explored the amazing waters of Biscayne Bay, The Keys and surrounding areas. Above all we take pride in offering you personalized yacht charters in Miami.
It has always been my dream to share the joy I get cruising these wonderful waters with others. Finally a few years ago I pursued that dream by becoming a captain and acquiring the yacht “Happy Ours”.
I always thought that the most fulfilling part of becoming a captain would be piloting boats. It turned out the joy in what I do is meeting amazing people with so many stories, and sharing this beautiful place called Miami!
I am a USCG Master Licensed Captain with a perfect safety record. When you come aboard the crew will make you feel at home, with personalities that are laid back, easy going and friendly.
My favorite time of day is after the sunsets and the lights of Miami illuminate the skyline, I hope I can have you aboard to share your favorite time of day and get to know your story.
Meet First Mate Jenniver
As a Miami resident, born and raised here by a Cuban-American family, I have a special love for this city. Coconut Grove is my favorite area with its lush landscape and bayside breeze. I happily married Capt. Derek in 2022 while raising two children, Marley and Jose. We all enjoy outdoor eating, entertaining, and the boating lifestyle our beautiful Miami offers. Happy Cruises is such a blessing in all of our lives! Capt. Derek and I have always been moved by a breathtaking sunrise and sunset while cruising the waters of Biscayne Bay.
“The feeling of excitement evoked by the smiles of our guests who come aboard never gets old”! Our Happy Cruises team looks forward to each opportunity to serve and create the lovely memories all take with them from cruising with us. Being a part of Happy Cruises has sparked so much creativity! This year ahead, I am especially excited about hosting the premium, chef-prepared, dinner cruise as the newest addition to the types of private charters we offer. As always, Happy Cruising!
-First Mate Jenniver
Meet Head Crew Alex
Hi my name is Alex. I was born and raised in Miami, my family background is Armenian and Sicilian. I love the water! Since childhood, I have grown up around boats and playing sports, particularly baseball.
At the age of fifteen, I had the pleasure of owning my own boat. I enjoy fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, anything that involves the water. Thanks to my mom I learned not to be shy and developed my people-person skills. It feels good connecting with clients who come aboard the Happy Ours
I love working the Happy Ours yacht, having an amazing boss, and the feeling of being part of a family business.
-Alex
Meet Captain Wade
Hi my name is Captain Wade. I was born and raised in Western Washington state. My family background is Western European. My mom grew up in California and my dad in the midwest. I have very fond memories growing up spending a lot of time on the water. I especially remember the time in Hawaii when my dad pushed me into a wave while I was riding a boogie board and felt that energy come off the wave.I was instantly hooked! Being on the water has been such a great part of my life since. We’d also go camping on lakes and spend much of our time on jet boats.
The weather in Miami, the people, and being near the water are all good features
I truly enjoy about this city. I became a captain because it’s a win win. It’s amazing to be able to be working on the water and getting paid for having fun.” Do what you love and get paid to do it, it’s the best feeling!”
My favorite part of working with Happy Cruises is working with a good and honest team. We all get along and do a good job together as it shows in our client reviews! I am happy to bring my skills as a captain to the Happy Cruises team where I fit in well!
-Capt Wade
