Captain Bobby
Growing up in the desert of Las Vegas, I never imagined my life would revolve around the ocean,” Captain Bobby Chiodini often says. After more than 20 years in law enforcement, where working with at-risk youth became a true calling, I found myself drawn to the Gulf Coast. Now, as Master Captain for the Sarasota School District’s Marine Science Program, I get to share my love of the sea with kids every day. It’s not just about teaching them about marine life; it’s about seeing their eyes light up when they discover something new, just like I did. The Gulf has become my second home, and I’m grateful to share its wonders.
Meet Captain Billy Duhe
Raised on the backwater bayous and Gulf Coast of South Louisiana and now cruising the Gulf of America, Captain Billy has saltwater in his veins .
With a USCG 100 Ton Master License, a NSBC boating instructor certification and a current member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, he’s as skilled as he is fun! When he’s not steering Island Hoppers Boat Tours to spot dolphins and sandbars, you’ll find him working as a Captain with the marine biologist from Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium discovering the Gulf’s coolest marine life.
Safe, smart, and a whole lot of fun — that’s how he rolls!
Captain Chad Thibodeau
After coming from the beautiful coast of Maine and exploring the enchanted islands of the
Florida keys, Chad has set his roots firmly here in the Anna Maria Island District. With his love of all things water and a background of masonry this rugged, yet sweet captain enjoys a hands on experience on our Islands and sand bars. Searching for sea life and entertaining is more than a passion for him.
When asked what makes working with Island Hoppers and the team so special. His response was charming with his crooked smile “It’s more than just a team, more than just a job. It’s a family, it’s a way of life.”
Meet First Mate Melissa Yanko
Born and raised in Melbourne, Florida, Melissa brings a lifelong love of the water and the Sunshine State to every Island Hoppers adventure. A graduate of the University of Florida with a degree in Accounting, she is also a successful business owner who has owned and operated Christmas ornament stores for more than 20 years. When she’s not helping guests create unforgettable memories on the water, Melissa enjoys staying active through fitness and tennis, spotting dolphins, and sharing her local knowledge of Florida’s beautiful coastline. Her passion for people, boating, and the outdoors helps create a fun, welcoming, and memorable experience for every guest who steps aboard with Island Hoppers Boat Tours.
Meet First Mate Cameron Ehrlich
Cameron’s Island Hoppers Boat Tours journey started as a student in Captain Bobby’s Marine Science & Biology program with the Sarasota School District — and this summer, it turned into a hands-on internship!
Born and raised right here on Anna Maria Island, Cameron has spent his whole life on the water, making this role a perfect fit. His passion for boating and marine life shines through every tour, and we’re thrilled to have him as part of the Island Hoppers crew!