DANTE

Capt. Brad Needham
As a North Carolina native, one of Brad’s earliest memories is sailing with his father in the Pamlico Sound on the family boat, a 12’ O’Day Widgeon. By age ten, he could singlehandedly sail the family boat, and he spent many summers attending sailing camp, ultimately joining the staff as an instructor by age sixteen.

He continued teaching sailing while attending the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, sharing his passion by helping others learn the craft. Having graduated from N.C. State University with a degree in mechanical engineering, he also has a keen awareness of the inner workings of many vessel systems. His combination of formal engineering training and real-world troubleshooting experience means he’s equally comfortable consulting technical manuals or improvising solutions when the unexpected inevitably occurs on the water.

Brad also has a strong background in hospitality, having worked in both front and back of house positions in numerous hotels, restaurants, and bars while pursuing his undergraduate degree. Brad worked as an engineer for a private company in Homer, Alaska, traveling throughout the U.S. and internationally to Turkmenistan for border security installations, but was soon reacquainted with his need to be on the water after taking a vacation cruising around Florida on a friend’s 28’ Cape Dory.

This prompted a career change into charter fishing boats in Alaska, and subsequently multiple boat deliveries along the Inside Passage and throughout the Caribbean. With over 40,000 NM under his belt, spanning the Atlantic coast, the rugged North Pacific, and the Virgin Islands, Brad is an accomplished captain and enjoys sharing his experiences with others.

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Chef Zoe Gahan

Growing up in Minnesota, the land of 10,000 lakes, Zoe developed a natural affinity for water, spending summers enjoying fishing trips, water sports, and wilderness canoeing. The family story goes that her love for fine foods began with her first-ever bite of solid food as a baby: fresh homemade focaccia. Since she can remember, cooking and serving food to loved ones has been a passion and deep source of joy.

With a background in a family-owned community newspaper, Zoe gained valuable experience in customer service, management, and organization. These skills translate perfectly to her role as mate and chef. Her fine arts education enhances her culinary presentations, where she combines technique with creativity to deliver meals that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Zoe’s international travels have always centered around exploring local cuisines, enriching her diverse cooking style.

When the publishing industry began changing, Zoe sought new horizons and made the bold decision to drive to Alaska sight unseen. After her first day working on a charter fishing boat in Alaska, she knew she had found a special calling working on the water, and worked on a variety of vessels in Alaska ranging from 28’ to 65’. Now having earned her captain’s license, she continues to expand her maritime knowledge with every voyage, which includes vessel deliveries from the Virgin Islands to both Grenada and Florida.

Brad and Zoe met in Alaska almost nine years ago (for a funny story, ask how!), and they’ve been working on charter vessels, both independently and as a team, since then. They are happiest when on the water, whether it’s fishing or sharing good food and laughter with new and old friends alike.

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Together, Brad and Zoe make an exceptional team—combining his seasoned seamanship and engineering expertise with her artistic culinary flair and warm hospitality. Whether he’s navigating the perfect course or troubleshooting systems at sea, and she’s crafting visually stunning, flavor-forward dishes, their shared love for the water and genuine delight in creating memorable experiences ensure every charter is seamless, safe, and supremely satisfying. Together, they look forward to welcoming you aboard and turning each voyage into a celebration of adventure, friendship, and outstanding service.