Meet the Crew
PAUL HANNUM
CAPTAINPaul’s lifelong passion for the water began in Maryland, where he grew up boating and fishing with his family on the Chesapeake Bay and along the Mid-Atlantic coast. Years of experience at sea have taken him to spectacular destinations around the world, with the Caribbean serving as his winter home for over a decade.
Captain Paul has extensive local knowledge and deep familiarity with the regions he cruises which allows him to craft thoughtfully curated itineraries tailored to both first-time and returning guests. Whether exploring secluded anchorages or vibrant island harbors, he ensures each journey is seamless, personalized, and unforgettable.
As Master aboard Cynderella, Captain Paul is dedicated to delivering a first-class yachting experience. Together with his professional crew, he is committed to exceptional service, premier destinations, and creating memorable moments on the water for every guest onboard.
JACK HANNUM
MATEGrowing up outside of Annapolis, Maryland, Jack spent time on the water boating and fishing along the Mid-Atlantic Coast, the Chesapeake Bay, and later, Palm Beach, Florida. His lifelong passion for the ocean was fueled by time spent on a variety of vessels, from center consoles and large sportfishing boats to luxury motoryachts.
Jack’s energetic, outgoing personality and keen attention to detail help create an exceptional onboard experience for every guest. When he’s not yachting during the winter and spring seasons, he can be found charter and tournament fishing in the summer months. So don’t be surprised if he helps you reel in dinner!
Holding a USCG Master License, Jack loves to share his enthusiasm for sportfishing, boating, and watersports, ensuring each guest enjoys their time aboard CynderElla to the fullest.
ENGINEERDENNIS STANDER
Originally from South Africa, Dennis has spent the past three years traveling the globe while serving as a Yacht Engineer following a diverse career in Projects, Mining, and Production. A qualified Mechanical Engineer he brings extensive technical expertise to the CynderElla Team.
Whether troubleshooting complex systems or ensuring all machinery operates at peak performance, Dennis is committed to maintaining a safe, efficient, and comfortable environment on board for both guests and crew. Always willing to lend a hand, his upbeat personality and professional demeanor will make you feel at home.
Dennis approaches both his professional and personal life with enthusiasm and a consistently positive outlook.
DECKHANDJONATHAN MAKONA
Jonathan was born and raised in Kansas City, Kansas. Despite growing up far from the water and not knowing how to swim in his early years, he chose to join the Navy in order to broaden his horizons and experience the world.
Following his military service, Jonathan built a career as a personal trainer, combining his discipline and leadership skills with a strong passion for fitness and nutrition. Yachting seemed to be a logical transition for him where he brings energy, dedication, and attention to detail to everything he does onboard CynderElla.
Jonathan is committed to drawing on his diverse background in the Navy and personal training to deliver exceptional service, foster a positive environment, and create memorable experiences for those around him.
CHEFPATRICK WILSON
Born and raised in Central Missouri, Patrick discovered his passion for cooking alongside his father in the family kitchen. He began his culinary career at 15 in a commercial bakery before attending Chicago’s Le Cordon Bleu program at The Cooking and Hospitality Institute of Chicago (CHIC).
At 19, he joined NAHA in Chicago, training for four years under Chef Carrie Nahabedian. He later moved to Portland, Oregon, becoming Executive Chef at OLEA, where he showcased fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
In 2014, Chef Patrick relocated to St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands to serve as Chef de Cuisine at La Tapa in Cruz Bay. Influenced by his travels throughout Europe and South and Central America, he has developed a distinctive style that blends traditional dishes with unexpected flavors while celebrating the vibrant culture of the Virgin Islands. CynderElla’s Chef since 2020, he is passionate about bringing people together through exceptional food and hospitality.
CHIEF STEWARDESSBAILEY FLEMING
Bailey brings five seasons of experience in the Virgin Islands to each charter. Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, she has called the islands home for the past four years and is passionate about sharing their beauty and magic with every guest onboard.
With a warm, welcoming presence and an eye for detail, Bailey is dedicated to creating a top-tier experience. From expertly crafted martinis to thoughtful personal touches, she ensures every charter feels effortless and unforgettable. An avid traveler and photographer, she also offers onboard photography services so guests can take their memories home with them.
She looks forward to welcoming you aboard CynderElla and sharing the charm of the Caribbean.
STEWARDESSELIZABETH STANDER
Elizabeth serves as Second Stewardess aboard CynderElla. Born in South Africa she brings three years of dedicated experience in the yachting industry and offers a confident, composed, and detail-oriented approach to her role.
She is well-versed in all aspects of interior operations, including delivering refined guest service, curating elegant table settings, maintaining impeccable housekeeping standards, and supporting the smooth day-to-day functioning of the vessel. Her comprehensive understanding of onboard service ensures an elevated experience for every guest.
Recognized for her professionalism, strong work ethic, and thoughtful demeanor, Elizabeth excels in dynamic environments and takes pride in anticipating guest needs with precision and care. Her collaborative mindset and positive presence contribute greatly to welcoming environment onboard. Her commitment to excellence ensures each charter is executed to the highest standard.