Meet the crew

Keeran grew up close to the sea and the River Tyne, with his passion for the maritime world starting early through sailing from Royal Quays Marina with the Ocean Youth Trust. Before joining boatfolk, he worked at the Port of Tyne as Assistant Harbour Master. His wider career includes time as a Deck Officer on a range of commercial vessels, from LNG tankers to offshore research vessels and containerships. Now well established at Royal Quays Marina, Keeran focuses on creating a welcoming, well-run marina for berth holders, visitors and the local community. Outside of work, he enjoys mountain biking, the theatre, and spending time with the Royal Naval Reserve.

After leaving his role as a senior manager for a well-known supermarket chain, James set sail from Scarborough aboard his Etap 28i, Takaza, with plans to explore the UK and beyond. However, after spending a winter at Royal Quays Marina, he and his partner, Gav, fell in love with the area and embraced a liveaboard lifestyle on their boat.

James first joined the boatfolk team as a Marina Assistant, before being promoted to Berthing Master and then Duty Manager in April 2026. Now part of the marina’s management team, James plays a key role in supporting the day-to-day operation of the site and helping to ensure a warm welcome and smooth experience for berth holders and visitors alike.

David Wood is the Senior Yacht Broker at the Boatpoint office in Royal Quays Marina. After a career in retail management, he decided to follow his passion for boats, swapping the shop floor for the open water as motor yacht crew in the Mediterranean. Eventually, he settled in North-East England, where he found his true calling in yacht brokerage. With extensive experience and a deep knowledge of the boat market, David helps clients navigate the buying and selling process with confidence. Known for his friendly and approachable nature, he makes finding the perfect boat a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Alex is our main man in the boatyard. Being chief hoist driver and crane operator, like as not it’ll be Alex setting your boat down. Alex’s many talents include building rowing skiffs, puppetry, rock musician and a subtle wit. He’s big into wooden boats but chooses to have a fibre glass one!

Brian joined the marina when we first opened and celebrated 25 years service at Royal Quays in 2023. Brian is always happy to share his experience and knowledge and you'll usually find him behind the BBQ at our marina events. As en ex-trawlerman and keen angler, what Brian doesn't know about fishing isn't worth knowing! His experience and understanding of the marina is second to none. In 2024, Brian decided to step back from the role of Assistant Marina Manager but he is still working Wednesday to Friday when you will find him working on various jobs around the marina.

As with all the Berthing Master team, you will find Ken answering the VHF, operating the lock gates, taking your lines, lifting boats, serving fuel, keeping the marina clean, tidy and well maintained, checking boats, recording all the ins and outs, doing security, and working the till. Phew! And he still has time to smile!