Capt. Jake Iversen, President
Joined Watermark in 2017
What is your favorite Watermark product and why?
Impossible to choose just one! From walking tours to charter boat cruises and everything in between, Watermark brings history, culture, and fun to the Chesapeake area. Each of Watermark’s products is unique, distinct, and supports our brand essence statement.
Have you ever held any other positions at Watermark?
I started out as a captain on the iconic Harbor Queen before becoming General Manager of Vessel Activities in 2017. In 2022, my wife Laura and I purchased the tour and charter boat business as new owners, and I became President.
What is your favorite Watermark memory?
My favorite memory dates back to age ten. As a fourth-grader on a school field trip, I was in my element aboard a Watermark vessel, learning about the history of the Naval Academy and Annapolis. I’ve been a fan ever since!
Ginny Mininger, Chief Operating Officer
Joined Watermark in 2011
Why did you first want to work at Watermark?
After a fulfilling career in the superyacht industry, Watermark appeared to be the ideal match, seamlessly blending the joy of delivering exceptional service to guests with the pleasure of being on boats. All of this, coupled with the opportunity to establish roots in the picturesque and historic Chesapeake Bay area, made Watermark a perfect choice.
If you could trade jobs for a day with anyone at Watermark, who would it be and why?
If given the chance to swap roles for a day at Watermark, my choice would undoubtedly be our ticket agents. The sheer delight of meeting and engaging with thousands of guests, whether locals or visitors, is beyond compare. Hearing the unique stories that bring them to our area is not only fascinating but also presents us with countless opportunities every day to exceed their expectations and enhance their overall experience. It’s a role that combines the joy of making connections with the rewarding challenge of making each guest’s visit exceptional.
Chip Johnson, Comptroller
Joined Watermark in the 1980s
What is your favorite Watermark product and why?
I really like them all. From the 40- & 90-minute tours to the Day on the Bay Cruise, or a private charter down the Severn River. I have worked on all of them.
What was your first job?
My first job was as a dishwasher at Country Kitchen in Casper, Wyoming. Needless to say, I don’t like doing the dishes.
Outside of Watermark, what is your favorite thing to do in the Chesapeake Bay area?
There are so many things to do in the area, I think one of my favorites is going to the beach with friends!
Alex Knoll, Director of Sales & Marketing
Joined Watermark in 2020
What was your first job?
My first job was as a paperboy in Springfield, Illinois. I woke up at 5:00 each morning and walked a couple miles up and down my neighborhood delivering 200-plus copies of the State Journal-Register. It taught me responsibility, punctuality and customer service.
Besides Watermark, what are some of your favorite things to do in the Chesapeake area?
I love learning the history surrounding Chesapeake Bay … the fact that Maryland tobacco financed the Revolution; that Annapolis’ capitol is the only active capitol to also be the U.S. capitol; that when Capt. John Smith first sailed the Bay oyster reefs so large they were a navigation hazard.
If you could trade jobs for a day with anyone at Watermark, who would it be and why?
I’d like to switch with one of the captains. But for the sake of any passengers, I’d settle for being mate. When I was younger, I worked several years as mate on a crab boat and loved it. All but the worst days on the water are better than any on land.
Jamie Foster, Director of Guide Operations
Joined Watermark in 2016
What was your first job?
I scooped ice cream in rural Michigan in an old, converted railroad car called the Caboose.
What is your favorite Watermark product and why?
I have to pick two. I really enjoy riding the Harbor Queen but also love our public walking tours! As a history lover, I enjoy walking the streets and hearing the stories of the past. The history comes alive as you make the connections from the things you are seeing and experiencing with stories and information shared by the guides.
Have you ever held any other positions at Watermark?
I have been a tour guide since 2016 and still enjoy giving a tour when I can.
Outside of Watermark, what is your favorite thing to do in the Chesapeake Bay area?
I love being with family and friends as well as hiking the different trails and parks around the area.
Christian Worch, Director of Vessel Operations
Joined Watermark in 2021
What was your first job?
I was a parts runner for a local HVAC company and spent summers driving a box truck around the DC area to deliver new units and remove old ones. I also learned a little bit of sheet metal work in the afternoons.
Why did you first want to work at Watermark?
I was discovering more and more about the opportunities of a commercial Captain’s License. I wanted an opportunity to earn sea time to apply for a 100-ton license and was pointed towards Watermark.
What is your favorite Watermark product and why?
I think Day on the Bay is such a unique offering. I’m not very familiar with St. Michaels, so it’s always a fun time for me to get down there and check out the town.
Ralph Creel, Director of Maintenance
Joined Watermark in 2009
What was your first job?
My first job was riding my bike around the neighborhood delivering newspapers when I was 13.
Have you ever held any other positions at Watermark?
I originally joined Watermark in 2009 as Water Taxi captain and had a wonderful time interacting with our guests and showing them around Annapolis.
Outside of Watermark, what is your favorite thing to do in the Chesapeake Bay area?
I love to fish!
Jennifer Bain Spivey, Office Manager
Joined Watermark in 2025
What was your first job?
My first job at 14 years old was at the Orange Bowl at Prince Georges Plaza serving pizza and soft-serve ice cream.
Besides Watermark, what are some of your favorite things to do in the Chesapeake area?
My favorite things to do are kayaking on the South River, and spending time with my family and dogs down at our neighborhood beach.
What is your favorite Watermark product and why?
My favorite Watermark product is the walking tours because they make history come alive.
If you could trade jobs for a day with anyone at Watermark, who would it be and why?
If I could trade jobs for one day I would love to be a ghost tour guide.
Becky Stokes, School & Group Tour Manager
Joined Watermark in 2021
What was your first job?
My first paycheck came as an RA (Resident Assistant) in my college dormitory at Texas Woman’s University. That began my love for and career in the hospitality and travel industry.
Besides Watermark, what are some of your favorite things to do in the Chesapeake area?
During summer, you’ll find me enjoying a day sailing on the Bay or tubing with the kids on one of its many tributaries. Come fall, I’ll be at Navy-Marine Corps Stadium enjoying time with friends and Mids cheering on the Navy football team. And any time of year, I’m enjoying the great foods of the Bay – crab, oysters, fish – at the bountiful restaurants in town.
What is your favorite Watermark product and why?
It’s always great being out on the water, but there’s so much rich history in the maze of cobblestone streets in downtown. The colonial guides are a fount of knowledge, so every tour is an opportunity to learn something new.
If you could trade jobs for a day with anyone at Watermark, who would it be and why?
I’d choose to work the ticket umbrella. Our ticket agents speak with so many of Watermark’s guests — they know where they’re from and what they’re interested in learning about. Plus, they have the best office view!
Jason Ptaszynski, Annapolis Operations Manager
Joined Watermark in 2024
What was your first job?
I was 15 when I got my first job at Kemah Nursery in Seabrook, Texas. I spent much of my time hauling mulch, bushes, Christmas trees, and pumpkins. It was such a great job because I got to spend time outside with the plants and fresh air while developing a solid work ethic that I still utilize in my adult years.
Have you ever held any other positions at Watermark?
When I started working for Watermark, I was fortunate enough to spend my time learning a little bit of everything I could about the company by splitting my time between bartending, inventory, and operations. I believe this was the perfect way to begin my new career as Operations Manager while still being able to contribute to other facets of the company.
What is your favorite Watermark product and why?
I think my favorite product Watermark offers are our private charter cruises. I love how so many companies show their appreciation for their staff in such a unique way by taking them out on the water to get away from the rest of the world for a while. Plus, our catered weddings are some of the most beautiful events I’ve ever had the honor of being a part of.
Outside of Watermark, what is your favorite thing to do in the Chesapeake Bay area?
When I’m not working and I want to stay out on the water, I love crabbing and fishing with friends on the boat. On land, I enjoy playing golf anywhere from Pax River Naval Base to Queenstown Harbor Golf on the Eastern Shore and anywhere in between.
Unike Brown, Retail & Merchandise Manager
Joined Watermark in 2021
What was your first job?
My first job was at a nursing home. I played bingo in the afternoons with the residents of Ginger Cove!
Besides Watermark, what are some of your favorite things to do in the Chesapeake area?
Outside of work, I enjoy hanging out with my family. We love to fish. Currently sports control our lives. My daughter plays travel basketball, and my son plays soccer, so we are always on the GO!
What is your favorite Watermark product and why?
As an Annapolitan, Water Taxi rides have been somewhat of a tradition in my family. If you get honor roll in school, you knew my dad and mom were going to take you to the Chart House for dinner and on a Water Taxi ride. For me, it’s a really cool tradition in our family that has been done with me and my siblings, and now my kids.
Kelsey Dunn, Charter Sales & Event Manager
Joined Watermark in 2024
What was your first job?
At 16, in Seaford, DE, I was hired at a new pizza spot in the area called Hungry Howie’s for the summer. I helped prep the location for opening day, took delivery and carry out orders, made the food and even at times stood outside with a sign to promote the new business. I ended up leaving this job once school started back up as the schedule began to conflict with my cheerleading practice and football game schedule.
Outside of Watermark, what is your favorite thing to do in the Chesapeake Bay area?
I love to get together with friends and family to enjoy the great food, drinks and atmosphere at the many local restaurants. Especially one with outdoor seating and views of the water. If there are crabs to be picked, it makes it even better!
If you could trade jobs for a day with anyone at Watermark, who would it be and why?
I would love to be a Captain on one of the boats for a day! Growing up, my dad always let me take over on his boat once we hit open water. I’ll just need someone else to guide the boat out of the marina and away from the docks, LOL!
What is your favorite Watermark product and why?
Cruising on the Catherine Marie for an event would have to be my favorite Watermark offering. The vessel screams LUXURY, and I love that.
Samantha Politis , Charter Sales & Event Manager
Joined Watermark in 2025
What was your first job?
My first job was at a DIY art studio! It was a super fun and creative job where people would come in and paint pottery, fuse glass, or build mosaics.
Have you ever held any other positions at Watermark?
Yes! I spent the 2025 season as a bartender. It was cool to work a variety of events and serve drinks across all our vessels.
If you could trade jobs for a day with anyone at Watermark, who would it be and why?
I would trade with the operations team. I think it would be fun to help dock the boats and make sure everything runs smoothly. They really keep things afloat!
What is your favorite Watermark product and why?
I love the Sunset Cruise with Live Music! You get all the best Annapolis views with a variety of the best local musicians
Outside of Watermark, what is your favorite thing to do in the Chesapeake Bay area?
You can find me anywhere my dog, Ellie, is welcome. Our best day is chasing waves at the Quiet Waters Dog Beach followed by a fun time at Davis’ Pub (their dog menu is too cute)!
Linda Heinz, Executive Assistant
Joined Watermark in 2017
If you could trade jobs for a day with anyone at Watermark, who would it be and why?
I would trade jobs with a Water Taxi captain to be out on the water all day and to have chance to chat with our Watermark guests.
Have you ever held any other positions at Watermark?
I started with Watermark in 2017 as the Retail/Program Manager and added the role of Special Events Manager in 2018.
What is your favorite Watermark product and why?
My favorite products are our special event cruises, such as our Blue Angels cruises and our Day on the Bay to Saint Michaels, because they are a great way to connect with the Annapolis community and the Chesapeake.
Outside of Watermark, what is your favorite thing to do in the Chesapeake Bay area?
When boating is not an option, I love exploring Annapolis on foot along one of the hidden walking trails or enjoying the beauty of downtown and Eastport. I love strolling along the quaint streets, over the draw bridge, and meeting friends for dinner or music at one of the many great local restaurants.
Genesis Foley, Tour Coordinator
Joined Watermark in 2023
What was your first job?
My first job was bussing tables, in a full tuxedo, at a German restaurant.
What is your favorite Watermark product and why?
As a history major and huge architecture enthusiast, I have to say the ArchiTrex tour. It’s a great way to learn about Annapolis’ rich and eclectic architectural history.
If you could trade jobs for a day with anyone at Watermark, who would it be and why?
I love Halloween and all things spooky, so I’d love to lead a ghost tour in October.
Outside of Watermark, what is your favorite thing to do in the Chesapeake Bay area?
In the summertime, sitting with family by the water, sharing a bucket of Natty Bohs and picking crabs is pretty hard to beat.
Tiffani Worley, Captain & Company Security Officer
Joined Watermark in 2022
What was your first job?
My first job was an animal handler at a petting zoo in Reston, VA. I spent my lunch breaks with Kramer the camel or hanging out with the kangaroo joeys. However, driving the Massey Ferguson tractor was by far my favorite activity!
Besides Watermark, what are some of your favorite things to do in the Chesapeake area?
Dog Beach with my main four-legged man, Drexel!
Why did you first want to work at Watermark?
Originally hailing from the DMV, I embarked on a water-based career that took me to the Caribbean, Michigan, and Newport Beach, California. As I found my way back home to Maryland, Watermark was the operation with the best reputation and brand. How could I not want to be a part of their team?! From Baltimore to the Eastern Shore, Watermark is rich in history, culture, and unforgettable journeys.
Alyssa Cargill, Marketing & Communications Manager
Joined Watermark in 2025
What was your first job?
I made sandwiches and deliveries at the once reputable establishment Quiznos.
Besides Watermark, what are some of your favorite things to do in the Chesapeake area?
I love anything water related, just being near big bodies of water reminds me how small we are in the grand scheme of things.
Why did you first want to work at Watermark?
I love the experiences we offer to a wide audience and was very interested in helping to share these stories with more people.
Lindsey Williams, Baltimore Opps Manager
Joined Watermark in 2021
What was your first job?
My first job was as a lifeguard at the Sports and Learning Center in Landover, MD.
What is your favorite Watermark product and why?
My favorite Watermark product is the Day on the Bay Cruise. You get to literally spend the day cruise on the bay to St. Michaels, which is always a nice way to get away from the downtown areas of Annapolis and Baltimore.
Have you ever held any other positions at Watermark?
Yes! I started as a deckhand and branched into bartending. Then worked on tickets, as an operations manager and finally as a captain.
If you could trade jobs for a day with anyone at Watermark, who would it be and why?
It would be a member of the maintenance team. They get to work on all of the boats in a more hands on capacity and there’s a physicality to the job that I like.
Outside of Watermark, what is your favorite thing to do in the Chesapeake Bay area?
I love going to different coffee shops in the area and trying their specialty drinks.
Tony Doorman, Inventory Manager
Joined Watermark in 2025
What was your first job?
My first job was a dishwasher and busser in a Ski Lodge at Bogus Basin Ski Resort in Boise, Idaho.
What is your favorite Watermark product and why?
My favorite Watermark product is definitely our lighthouse cruises. Being able to see iconic Maryland lighthouses up close while learning about them from an amazing tour guide is so fascinating!
Have you ever held any other positions at Watermark?
I did! I started out as a bartender last season and moved into helping with the inventory and stocking of the boats before finally getting to the Inventory Manager role.
If you could trade jobs for a day with anyone at Watermark, who would it be and why?
I would love to switch places or a day with one of the boat captains. Working on and around all these different vessels is so much fun but operating them and driving them from place to place seems exciting!
Outside of Watermark, what is your favorite thing to do in the Chesapeake Bay area?
I am an avid concert goer and am always checking out a live show or music festival, especially at smaller and more local venues.