MEET THE CREW
Captain Anna – Owner, Operator & Steward of the Volsunga Legacy
Born and raised right here in Stony Creek, Captain Anna has saltwater in her blood and the Thimble Islands in her heart. She’s been aboard the Volsunga since she was just days old, growing up with the rhythm of the tides and the stories of the sea passed down from her father, Captain Bob.
After earning her degree in American History with a specialization in Public History, Anna combined her love of storytelling with her deep maritime roots. She attended Sea School, became a licensed captain, and in 2016, she officially took the helm of the family business following her father’s passing — determined to carry on his legacy and make it her own.
Today, she’s proud to be one of the very few female sea captains in the region, breaking barriers and steering her own course. Her background in history shines through in every tour, as she brings the rich past of the Thimble Islands to life with insight, charm, and passion.
Captain Anna isn’t just running a boat — she’s sharing a piece of her own story, one voyage at a time. And there’s nowhere she’d rather be than behind the wheel of the Volsunga, showing guests the islands she’s loved all her life.
Fun Fact: Anna has spent more birthdays on the water than on land — and she wouldn’t have it any other way.
First Mate Lauren – The Backbone of the Boat
First Mate Lauren has been keeping things shipshape aboard the Volsunga for nearly 20 years. Long before she became Captain Anna’s right-hand woman, she was the most trusted crew member of Captain Bob — the kind of first mate every captain hopes for.
Lauren is more than just an experienced mariner — she’s also an educator in New Haven, sharing her passion for science and learning with students on land, and has previously worked at the Maritime Aquarium, where her love of the sea and its creatures shines through.
But more than anything, Lauren is family. She’s been Anna’s best friend for two decades, and her dedication and heart have been essential in building what the business is today. On deck, she’s quick with a line and even quicker with a smile — making every guest feel welcome, safe, and part of something special.
Fun Fact: Lauren knows every Thimble Island tale — and she’s been part of enough adventures to add a few chapters of her own.
“None of this would be possible without Lauren. She’s been with me through every tide — calm or stormy — and she’s as much a part of this boat as the engine itself.” – Captain Anna
First Mate Beth – The Anchor of the Operation
Beth wears many hats on board the Volsunga — First Mate, problem-solver, lunch-bringer, and most importantly, Mom to Captain Anna. Her steady presence and quiet strength are felt in every part of the business, whether she’s tying off lines or making sure everything runs just right behind the scenes.
Beth has been there from day one — both literally and figuratively — and her unwavering support is one of the biggest reasons Volsunga continues to thrive.
To Anna, Beth isn’t just a crew member — she’s the anchor.
Fun Fact: If something needs fixing, organizing, or quietly being handled without anyone asking — Beth’s already on it.
“My mom is the reason I’ve been able to do this. Her strength, support, and love for this boat and our family are behind every single trip we take.” – Captain Anna
Tim – Official Boat Dog & Morale Officer
No crew would be complete without Tim. Our loyal pup is part greeter, part lookout, and 100% good boy. He loves sunbathing on the dock, getting ear scratches from guests, and occasionally “helping” with dock lines (stealing snacks).
Fun Fact: Tim has his own life jacket with a shark fin on it and gets more Instagram tags than the rest of the crew combined.
“Timmy might be small, but he’s got the biggest heart on board. This little rescue dog has truly found his place as part of the crew on the Volsunga.” – Captain Anna
In 2024, we welcomed two of the finest captains to ever sail these islands.
Captain Matt – Local Islander, Captain, & Resident Fun Guy
Captain Matt was practically born with salt in his veins. As a lifelong islander, he knows these waters, tides, and tucked-away spots better than most — because they’ve always been his backyard. His deep-rooted connection to the area adds an authentic, insider touch to every trip, whether he’s pointing out lesser-known landmarks or sharing stories only locals would know.
Guests love Matt not just for his experience, but for his quick wit, easygoing vibe, and warm, welcoming nature. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a familiar face, Matt makes everyone feel like part of the crew.
Fun Fact: Captain Matt’s jokes are just as legendary as his local knowledge — and both keep people coming back.
“Matt brings the kind of easygoing expertise you want in a captain. He knows these waters like home — because they are — and he makes every single person feel like part of the islands.” – Captain Anna
Captain Brian – Islander, Captain, & Keeper of the Shanties
Captain Brian brings deep local knowledge, salty charm, and a bit of old-school maritime magic to every trip. A proud island resident, Brian knows the Thimble Islands like the back of his hand — from the tidal patterns to the well-kept secrets that only locals know how to find.
But Brian’s talents don’t stop at the helm. He’s also known to break out into sea shanties on his concertina, filling the deck with music and stories that harken back to the golden age of sail. Whether he’s pointing out bald eagles or playing a tune while boarding, Brian makes every ride one to remember.
Fun Fact: Brian knows every shortcut through the Thimbles- even a few that aren’t on any charts.
“Brian’s the kind of captain who reminds you why people fall in love with the sea. He’s got local knowledge, stories for days, and a sea shanty to share that brings it all to life.” – Captain Anna
The last member of our crew is no longer physically with us, but his spirit is on every tide, in every story, and at the heart of every voyage.
In Loving Memory
Captain Bob – The Original Captain
Before Anna took the helm, it was her father, Captain Bob, who built this business with his hands, his heart, and a love for the water that he passed down to everyone around him. He was a beloved figure in the community and a fixture on the dock, always ready with a story or a laugh.
Captain Bob taught us that running a boat business isn’t just about navigating the sea — it’s about connecting with people, respecting the water, and never taking a sunset for granted.
We sail every trip with his spirit on board.
