Ascente

Mike Simpson - Rotational Captain

For over two decades, I’ve served as a tugboat captain throughout the waters of British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest—ranging from the rugged coastline of Alaska to the river systems of Portland, Oregon. Alongside my maritime career, I have operated a successful yacht delivery and charter business for more than 20 years. As I transition from the tugboat industry, I am excited to dedicate myself fully to my true passion: sharing the beauty of our coastline with guests seeking exceptional experiences on the water. My extensive local knowledge, gained through a lifetime at sea, allows me to curate safe, memorable, and deeply personalized journeys. For the past 15 years, I have also completed Pilot Waivers for mega yachts and commercial vessels over 500 tons, ensuring smooth and compliant navigation through some of the region’s most challenging waterways. I’m passionate about people, adventure, and the unparalleled magic of the Pacific Northwest—qualities that make this the perfect next chapter in my career. I look forward to welcoming you aboard and showcasing the extraordinary waters I’m proud to call home.

Tyler Frumento - Rotational Captain

With over 13 years of experience working on tugboats and the past 1.5 years transitioning into the yachting industry, I bring a strong commercial maritime background combined with a growing passion for yacht operations. My career has given me extensive hands-on experience, a solid work ethic, and a calm, reliable approach in demanding environments. I take pride in being safety-focused, adaptable, and a dependable team player who understands the importance of professionalism and efficiency onboard. Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, golfing, fishing, and keeping up with sports. These interests reflect my appreciation for teamwork, the outdoors, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle, which I believe translates into a positive attitude and strong camaraderie with crew and guests alike.

Randall Pilkington - Engineer

Randall Pilkington is a seasoned deckhand and systems maintenance specialist, currently serving aboard the elite yacht ASCENTE. With over two decades of experience in equipment operation and maintenance across diverse industries and certified in STCW Basic Safety Training from the Maritime Institute, Randall brings a unique blend of technical expertise, maritime professionalism, and high-security awareness. Known for his discretion, meticulous attention to detail, and proactive problem-solving, he ensures the vessel operates at peak performance while maintaining the privacy and safety of all guests and crew. Randall is committed to upholding the highest standards of safety, functionality, and confidentiality in elite maritime environments.

Nathan Ward - Deckhand

An Australian national currently based in British Columbia, he has built a diverse career across yacht operations, private estate management, and construction trades. Nathan has served in senior roles including First Mate, Chief Mate, Relief Captain, and Marina Manager on vessels up to 241 feet, working throughout Florida, the Bahamas, the Gulf of Mexico, Australia, and worldwide cruising programs. Known for his professionalism, strong leadership, and calm command in high‑pressure environments, Nathan brings a wide technical skill set that spans project management, contractor coordination, engineering support, safety operations, guest services, and deck management. His experience also includes water‑sports instruction, tender driving, freediving, spearfishing, and shark‑safety diving—skills that have enhanced guest experiences on charter and private vessels alike.

Reed Philpott - Deckhand

I am a 27-year-old who was born and raised in the Yukon, and English is my primary language. I have a strong passion for the outdoors, especially activities on and around the water. I have been around boats since I was a toddler and have sailed extensively throughout Alaska, down to California, and everywhere in between. I have been working as a deckhand and maintenance crew member on ASCENTE since May 2025. Prior to that, I spent approximately six years as a deckhand and maintenance crew member on Equanimity. During this time, I also worked as a chef, bartender, and carpenter, which has given me a broad and versatile skill set. I take great pride in my exceptional attention to detail and strong commitment to safety.

Kevin Houssais - Chef

With over 23 years in the hospitality and culinary industry, Kevin brings a versatile, hands-on background shaped by classic techniques and elite kitchens worldwide. His experience spans foundational training in France, a prestigious 2-star Michelin restaurant, luxury venues across Europe and Canada, fine hotels, and superyachts. As a dedicated private chef, he excels at crafting bespoke experiences for high-profile clients and families—delivering intimate multi-course dinners, personalized menus, and flawless service in private homes, villas, and exclusive settings. Passionate about fresh, seasonal ingredients and precise creativity, Kevin is known for his enthusiasm, intelligence, ambition, and ability to inspire teams. His expertise ensures exceptional service and guest satisfaction through refined tasting menus and thoughtful, customized meals. Confident in his skills and leadership, he creates personalized, unforgettable culinary journeys that elevate every occasion.

Katie Diehl - Chief Stewardess

Katie Diehl is an accomplished Chief Steward, Crew Chef, and Holistic Wellness professional with more than 14 years of experience working aboard private and charter superyachts around the world. Known for her calm leadership, exceptional service standards, and ability to create elevated guest experiences, Katie has built a dynamic career spanning interior management, culinary operations, event coordination, wellness programming, and refit project oversight. Her yachting journey has taken her across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Bahamas, Central America, Japan, Australia, and North America, where she has held key roles on vessels ranging from 28 to 60 meters. Beyond her operational expertise, Katie brings a strong foundation in wellness and hospitality. She is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, 900‑hour certified yoga instructor, and PADI Divemaster, allowing her to support crew and guests with a focus on health, balance, and safety. Her background in geography, nutrition, dive leadership, and yoga uniquely enhances her presence onboard, enabling her to deliver a holistic, guest‑centered approach to luxury service.

Sonya Simpson - Rotational Stewardess

Sonya is a seasoned hospitality, tourism, and maritime service professional with a strong foundation in yachting, including deck operations, provisioning, bartending, and luxury guest care. She has supported private clients, charter vessels, and high‑end properties across the Pacific Northwest, known for her organized, efficient, and polished approach in both marine and land‑based settings. Her background includes stewarding a range of yachts, detailed interior upkeep, galley support, and provisioning charters and superyachts. Valued for her clear communication, teamwork, and commitment to exceptional service, she consistently delivers elevated guest experiences. Sonya also speaks Slovenian and enjoys traveling, cooking, pickleball, hiking, and skiing.

Courtney Morris - Rotational Stewardess

My name is Courtney Morris. I am a stewardess from Canada, with a strong, elevated hospitality background, and recent experience on charter and private motor yachts. With over 10 years of service experience, I am very excited to bring my polished, friendly demeanor and expertise to M/Y ASCENTE! I work well under pressure, and am able to anticipate guests’ needs, while maintaining high standards, and positivity throughout the charters, and during the detailed cleanings between! In the recent year I have had the opportunity to assist in providing excellent service to high profile clients during the Monaco Grand Prix, and Cannes Lion festival. During my free time, I enjoy travelling, experiencing new cultures, taking my golden retriever for forest walks, yoga, and relaxing at the beach! With my worldly experience and first language being English, I find ways to connect with international and local guests, to personalize, and perfect their luxury vacation!