Meet the crew

Born in South Shields, Keeran grew up close to the sea and the River Tyne. His passion for the maritime world began early, sailing from Royal Quays Marina in his childhood with the Ocean Youth Trust and Sea Scouts. Keeran joins boatfolk from the Port of Tyne, where he has served as Assistant Harbour Master since 2023. His maritime career began as a Deck Officer on a variety of commercial vessels, ranging from LNG tankers and buoy tenders to offshore research vessels and containerships. This breadth of experience has given Keeran a comprehensive understanding of the maritime sector. He is dedicated to fostering a vibrant and welcoming space that serves the local community, supports visiting boaters, and accommodates our diverse range of users. Outside of work, Keeran enjoys mountain biking, attending the theatre, and dedicating time to his duties in the Royal Naval Reserve.

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.

Sue is ‘Wright’ by name and ‘right’ by nature! All her numbers add up, and she keeps our accounts ship shape and in order – and she’s fun and friendly too! A stalwart of the local sailing club, in her day she was pretty hot in Enterprises and is an old hand sailing back and forth across the North Sea.

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!

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!

As with all the Berthing Master team, you will find Jamie answering the VHF, operating the lock gates, taking your lines, working in the boat yard, serving fuel, checking boats  and getting stuck into whatever other marina jobs need tackling by a willing pair of hands. 

From May to October, we welcome Denise Robinson to the  boatfolk crew at Royal Quays Marina as Summer Berthing Assistant. Denise provides some very welcome additional assistance during our busiest season. With a background working in airline First Class hospitality, Denise is always a cheerful, positive member of the Royal Quays boating community. Denise is kept busy during the summer season and is just as likely to be helping on the fuel berth, catching lines on the pontoons, operating the lock gates, tending the planters, meeting visitors and helping out at events. Phew! Like the return of Swallows, the arrival of Denise back at the Marina is always a welcome sign of spring!