Kathleen McMenamin
Captain for 15 years, Island Rec Center; Outdoor Recreation, Ibis
Originally from “the world.” I have lived in six different countries and five different states, but Hilton Head Island is what I say is my home.
In the Lowcountry on and off for 35 years
What sort of excursions do you offer? I do it all! Currently, sailing, kayak, SUP, and surfing with Island Rec Center, as well as eco tours, ski trips, history tours, and shark tooth trips with Outside Hilton Head.
What drew you to working on the water? I’ve always found something deeply grounding in the presence of water. The tides are steady and constant, reliable rhythms in a world that can often feel chaotic. There’s peace in knowing that no matter what’s happening on land, the water continues its cycle, entirely outside of my control. That balance between consistency and unpredictability is what draws me. Working on the water lets me be close to that force every day. It reminds me to stay present, adapt, and trust in the rhythm of things bigger than myself.
What is your biggest challenge working in a male-dominated field? Working in a male-dominated field, the biggest challenge isn’t proving my ability, it’s being seen beyond assumptions. I meet every challenge with grace, determination, and skill. I don’t need to talk myself up; my actions speak louder. I’ve developed the skills to handle complex maneuvers on the water, such as parallel parking a boat, with confidence and precision. I am able to coach kids into perfect surf or water ski stances and skills. I lead with respect and confidence, knowing that true credibility comes from consistently showing up and doing the job well.
Favorite thing about the job? My favorite part of the job is being immersed in the natural beauty of the Lowcountry. I feel deeply connected to this place. It brings me so much joy to be out on the water, watching the tides, wildlife, and landscapes all interact in such a dynamic, living system. I still have those “wow” moments regularly, where I pause and think, “I can’t believe I get to do this and see this!” That sense of wonder is what fuels me every day.
Tell us about a memorable “on the water” experience you’ll never forget. One experience I’ll never forget was a ski trip in Bull Creek several years ago. A fast-moving storm rolled in from Savannah, following the typical southwest wind pattern. I saw it coming early and quickly pulled the family off the tube and back into the boat to make a run for Shelter Cove. As we exited Bull Creek and turned down the Cooper River toward Hilton Head, the wind picked up so suddenly and intensely that it tore the Bimini top fabric right off the boat. We pushed through with the fabric flapping in the wind, racing the storm back to safety. Thankfully, everyone was safe and we made it in just before the worst of it hit. It was a powerful reminder of how quickly conditions can change on the water—and how important it is to stay aware, act fast, and prioritize safety.
When I’m not on the water, I’m … When I am not on the water, I can be found with my family! But my favorite place to go with my family is to the Appalachian mountains, my other happy place. I love long hikes, camping in quiet, forested areas, and fully disconnecting in nature. Whether I’m on the water or in the woods, I’m most at peace when I’m outside, exploring and appreciating the natural world.
Amber Kuehn
Captain for 25 years, Spartina Marine Education Charters, Spartina
Originally from Bluffton
In the Lowcountry for 51 years
What sort of excursions do you offer? Educational ecology tours
What drew you to working on the water? I grew up on the May River and became an unofficial boat captain at the age of 12.
What is your biggest challenge working in a male-dominated field? The assumption that I don’t know what I am doing.
Favorite thing about the job? Giving passengers the opportunity to connect the dots to answer questions that I pose about the environment. In my curriculum, I give them all of the information that they will need to put the answer together.
Tell us about a memorable “on the water” experience you’ll never forget. My whole childhood was a new and memorable experience on the water, from feeding my pet dolphin Dolly (illegal after 1992) to catching a sea horse in my cast net. More recently, I watched a dolphin feeding at the edge of the mudflat with her calf in tow. She was distracted, so the calf took advantage and swam swiftly toward my boat. I turned off the engine as it went under the boat. The mother noticed that the calf had left her side and began splashing vigorously before taking the exact path underneath my boat. She caught up to him, and they moved away from the boat to have their “time out.”
When I’m not on the water I’m … Managing a nonprofit, Sea Turtle Patrol Hilton Head Island; and managing a golden doodle named Ruby.
Jenna Wertz
In her second year as a captain,Vagabond Cruise, Mystique and Solaris
Originally from Toledo, Ohio
In the Lowcountry for 4 years
What sort of excursions do you offer? I run sightseeing/dolphin tours, happy hour tours, and sunset tours as well as fireworks cruises out of Harbour Town.
What drew you to working on the water? From as young as I can remember I always knew I wanted to move somewhere coastal after high school. After graduating high school, I attended Johnson & Wales University in Miami, Florida, with a major in tourism and hospitality management, followed by completing my MBA with a hospitality concentration from Johnson & Wales University online. During both my undergraduate and Masters, the courses I enjoyed the most were geared towards commercial cruise operations that spanned from small boat companies to large international cruise lines. The summer before graduating with my Masters I found a summer internship program with Vagabond Cruise that gives college students the opportunity to cross train in reservations, food and beverage, as well as boat operations. After enjoying living on the island and working on boats for that summer, I knew this line of work was for me. Thinking I would only be here for one college semester, that has turned into more than four years! I was the first employee within the company that worked from intern all the way to captain!
What is your biggest challenge working in a male-dominated field? As a young female captain working in a male-dominated field, I have faced judgment and challenges that men don’t seem to experience. One of the biggest challenges I encounter on a regular basis is not being taken seriously for my age and the fact I’m a female captain. I’ve been questioned if I’m old enough to be qualified to drive a boat, how can I be a captain if I can’t do all the physical or mechanical labor on boats that men can, or received side comments of “women belong in the galley, not behind the wheel” on countless occasions. More times than not these comments are coming from men, but in some cases from women. Experiences like this have made me feel as if I have to work twice as hard to prove that I am equally as capable of performing my job among working with male captains. However, I am fortunate to work with a great group of male captains within the company that have taken me under their wing and have been a tremendous help at getting me to where I am today. Though they do not experience the same feedback and judgment that I encounter on a regular basis, and I do not have the extensive knowledge in boating/boat mechanics as they do, I know they all have my back – and for that I’m grateful.
Favorite thing about the job? My all-time favorite part of the job is getting to see dolphins and sunsets every day! I definitely would not get to experience this if I still lived in Ohio!
Tell us about a memorable “on the water” experience you’ll never forget. I have had several memorable experiences since becoming a captain, but there is one that stands out. Last spring when my parents flew down to visit, I surprised them with booking them seats on one of my Mystique afternoon trips, which would be the first time they would ever get to experience being on a boat with me as their captain. My parents have been a constant support system my entire life and when I told them I wanted to go to Sea School and pursue a career in boating, they were behind me all the way! Watching them tell other guests on board that they were my parents and how proud they are of me, made all the time, effort, and and even a few tears shed to get to where I am today all worth it.
When I’m not on the water I’m … Definitely either watching Dance Moms or fishing!
Renee Iannotti
Captain for 26 years, Vagabond Cruise, Spirit of Harbour Town, Tammy Jane, Solaris, Mystique; Haig Point Ferry
Originally from Centerport, New York
In the Lowcountry for 6 years
What sort of excursions do you offer? Dolphin cruises, shrimping, crabbing, dinner cruises, private charters, cocktail cruises.
What drew you to working on the water? I grew up on the water, and it’s always been where I feel most comfortable. Working on the water gives me a sense of peace, focus, and purpose that I don’t find anywhere else. Whether it’s the challenge of the environment, or the camaraderie that comes with it, the water has always felt like home to me.
What is your biggest challenge working in a male-dominated field? One of the biggest challenges working in a male-dominated field is constantly having to prove that I am just as capable of doing the same work. There’s often an unspoken assumption that I won’t be able to keep up or handle certain tasks, especially physical ones. So, instead of being seen for my skills right away, I usually have to go the extra mile to earn that respect. It can be frustrating but I let my work speak for itself.
Favorite thing about the job? One of the things I love most about my job is that every day is different. You have to be confident, quick on your feet, and ready to switch gears to make important decisions. I thrive on the unpredictability of the job.
Tell us about a memorable “on the water” experience you’ll never forget. I have many memorable experiences but there’s not one that sticks out. I’ve seen lots of big fish, sharks, whales, etc., but I always remember and am so grateful for the beautiful sunsets that I get to see every day.
When I’m not on the water I’m …Home with my dogs.
Julie Goraj
Captain for 2 years, Native Son Adventures; Commander Zodiac
Originally from Sioux Falls, South Dakota
In the Lowcountry for 4 years
What sort of excursions do you offer? With Native Son I do the tiki boat tours – dolphin watching, shell island, crabbing, or just a sunset cruise taking in the Lowcountry views and listening to great tunes. With Commander Zodiac I do dolphin, salt marsh, sunset, and secluded beach combing tours.
What drew you to working on the water? I grew up in middle America where summer was spent at the lake or in the pool. My uncles used to pull me all day long, waterskiing or tubing. I never wanted to get off the boat or out of the water. I spent summers in college at one of my favorite places – Lake Okoboji – and my dear friends the Mau family owned one of the best marinas around and we were on the water almost every day and every night. Sunset waterskiing was one of my favorite parts of the day. As an adult, most of my vacations have involved a beach and being on the water. Being on the water makes me so happy and I am very fortunate that Lauren Porter with Island Water Sports and Caitlin Hubach with H2O Sports encouraged and supported my path towards obtaining my captain’s license.
What is your biggest challenge working in a male-dominated field? I could definitely list stereotypes – many of which hold some truth – but for me, I approach this with humility and deep gratitude for the exceptional male captains who have treated me with nothing but respect and kindness. Every day on the water is a humbling experience and an opportunity to learn. I am so appreciative of captains Tom, Mark, and Scott with Commander Zodiac and captains Byron, Nick, and Will with Native Son. They have so much incredible experience to share and I feel so fortunate to learn from all of them.
Favorite thing about the job? Being able to be on the water every day. Also, meeting new people, showing off our amazing island, making a kid’s day, laughing with the customers, getting people to sing along with my yacht rock playlist, discovering all the different waterways, and learning every day.
Tell us about a memorable “on the water” experience you’ll never forget. I spent three years working for Island Water Sports/Salty Cat Sailing in South Beach working with Captain Delaynie. She and I were on a sail together last summer and there were a lot of kids on the boat – for a family reunion. She introduced us before the sail: “Hi, I’m Captain Delaynie and this is Captain Julie, who will be my first mate today.” There was all this chatter on the boat and then several of the little girls exclaimed, “Wait, what? This big boat is being run by girls? Just girls? That’s SO cool.” It was really rewarding to see their awe and hear their excitement. After the sail all the little girls high-fived us and said, “Girl Power!” It makes me smile every time I think of it.
When I’m not on the water …I’m also doing marketing and event work on a contract basis and working during the school year at Hilton Head Prep. I love to try new places and experiences on the island. I travel a lot – I have visited 48 different countries. But I also have a very introverted side where I love nothing more than staying home with a great book, or movie, or puzzle.
Jennifer Klippel
Captain for 37 years, Drifter Excursions
Originally from New York City
In the Lowcountry for 46 years
What sort of excursions do you offer? Drifter Excursions is my family business. My brother, nephew, son, and I all work together. We offer fishing charters, dolphin watching, nature, and educational children’s tours.
What drew you to working on the water? I grew up on the water. My family has always had boats and I knew how to row a boat before I could ride a bike.
Favorite thing about the job? My favorite thing about my job is that every day is different. I have met a lot of interesting people and have gotten to see some amazing things while out on the water.
What is your biggest challenge working in a male-dominated field? I don’t feel like I have any challenges working in a male-dominated field.
Tell us about a memorable “on the water” experience you’ll never forget. I’ve had many experiences on the water that I will never forget. I have seen numerous whales in our waters including right whales and humpbacks. I have even seen a 40-foot humpback whale swimming in Calibogue Sound. I have witnessed two fellow charter boat captains get their anchors accidentally picked up by giant manta rays while fishing offshore of the island. The manta rays then started towing the boats because the anchors were stuck on them. Nothing will remind you more of the dangers that can occur on the ocean than watching your friends and fellow charter boat captains being towed in their boats by a giant manta ray.
When I’m not on the water I am … Spending time with my family.
Delaynie Grove
Captain for 2 Years, H2O Sports
Originally from Vincennes, Indiana
In the Lowcountry for 6 years (seasonally)
What sort of excursions do you offer? Dolphin tours, Daufuskie shuttles, and Banana Boat rides
What drew you to working on the water? My first summer working as a paddle board and kayak tour guide opened up the opportunity to start crewing on a sailboat. I fell in love with being on the water and sailing. The captain that I crewed for pushed me to keep learning and taught me everything he could to help me become a captain.
What is your biggest challenge working in a male-dominated field? When I first started captaining, a challenge I faced was not having enough confidence. However, I have been very blessed to not face any major challenges as a female in this male-dominated field. As a young captain with a lot to learn, I have had no end of support and guidance from the male captains that I have had the pleasure of working with.
Favorite thing about the job? My favorite thing about the job is getting to spread knowledge about the wildlife that lives in and around our waterways here on Hilton Head Island and getting to meet new people every day.
Tell us about a memorable “on the water” experience you’ll never forget. My most memorable on the water experience was my first collegiate keelboat (sailing) regatta. The regatta was in Chicago on Lake Michigan and the night before the racing started, we went out for a practice sail that ended with us watching the sunset and getting to see the Chicago skyline light up as we finished our sail in the dark. It was an amazing evening on the water with good friends doing our favorite activity. I would have never had the opportunity to sail in college had I not started my job working on the water in Hilton Head a couple of summers before this.
When I’m not on the water I’m … Running, snowboarding, or in school pursuing my Masters in public affairs.
Anneliza “Pippi” Itkor
Captain for 5 years, Outside Brands
Originally from Richmond, Virginia
In the Lowcountry for 22 years
What sort of excursions do you offer? I offer a wide variety of excursions designed to showcase the natural beauty and rich culture of the Lowcountry. These include eco-tours, the Daufuskie Artisan and History Tour, and the Outback Adventure – a unique experience where guests boat to our private island and enjoy a guided kayak tour through the tidal salt marsh. Other favorites include the Ultimate Lowcountry Day (a customizable trip with options like tubing, dock-jumping, dolphin watching, fishing, paddleboarding, and more), the Shark Tooth Island Excursion, Vanishing Island Adventure, fireworks cruises, and private charters.
What drew you to working on the water? I’ve always felt a deep connection to water. Growing up, my family spent summers at Sandbridge Beach in Virginia, where I developed a love and respect for the ocean. At age 10, we moved to Chicago, where the majesty of the Great Lakes captured my heart. Later, I relocated to Los Angeles and spent 16 years exploring the Pacific Ocean and learning all I could about its ecosystems. When I returned to the East Coast, it felt natural to give the Atlantic the same reverence I had given the Pacific. I started as a kayak and paddleboard guide, which allowed me to intimately explore the tidal salt marshes – and I was hooked. My curiosity evolved into a deep passion for learning about this island’s environment, history, and culture, and for sharing that knowledge with anyone willing to listen. Becoming a boat captain allowed me to expand that reach and invite more people into the magic of the Lowcountry.
What is your biggest challenge working in a male-dominated field? I’ve been fortunate to grow as a captain within a supportive company like Outside Brands. At first, I did worry I’d have to prove myself more than my male counterparts. But I soon realized that professionalism, consistency, and confidence in my training would speak louder than any stereotype. I also recognize that I’m part of a broader shift in the maritime industry. Every time a young girl sees me at the helm, I hope it reshapes her idea of what’s possible. I didn’t always have a role model who looked like me in this field. Now, I get to be that role model for someone else, and that means the world to me.
Favorite thing about the job? There’s so much to love, but the most rewarding part is watching the moment of wonder cross someone’s face when they experience something new. Seeing a guest light up as they spot a dolphin for the first time – it never gets old. Their joy becomes mine, every single time.
Tell us about a memorable “on the water” experience you’ll never forget. One of my most unforgettable moments actually happened on a paddleboard. I was guiding a family on a stand-up paddleboard nature tour. A five-year-old was riding on my board while her parents, a bit behind us, were paddling with her older siblings. We had paused to dip our feet in the water when suddenly, a massive manatee surfaced right beside us – so close that it brushed against my legs. The older kids screamed with surprise while the little one clutched me tightly. But instead of fear, her eyes sparkled with awe. “Wow!” she whispered. “Let’s do that again!” That moment of pure, fearless joy has stayed with me ever since, and it’s what I draw on during the tougher days on the water. It reminds me why I do this.
When I’m not on the water…I’m soaking up life with my wonderful husband, Josh, and our beloved menagerie of furry friends. You might find me singing at church, whipping up something delicious in the kitchen, photographing wildlife and community events, or working as the communications coordinator for Hilton Head Plantation. I live a full, joyful, purpose-driven life – and I’m grateful for every part of it.
