M/V STORM CREW
On M/V Storm, we’ve carefully selected an exceptional crew to lead your expeditions. Our team is not only highly skilled but also deeply passionate about their work, committed to making your journey as safe, seamless, and unforgettable as possible.
Scott Carnahan
Founder / Owner / Operator
Scott is the founder, owner, and hands-on operator of the M/V Storm and all Storm Fleet expeditions. With over 25 years of experience in SCUBA, filming, exploration, and expedition leadership throughout Mexico, he is one of the most respected professionals in the field.
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An IANTD Scuba Instructor Trainer, Scott has taught and worked worldwide. He has authored numerous training standards and materials for cave diving, advanced cave diving, rebreathers, and specialty diving. His maritime credentials include managing and operating charter vessels, holding a U.S. Coast Guard Commercial Master Captain’s License, and working as a Master Marine Surveyor.
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Scott is widely regarded as Mexico’s foremost expert in documentary film logistics and dive safety supervision. His deep knowledge of Baja California’s marine life, ecosystems, and local communities, combined with his ability to bring all the moving parts together, makes him truly unmatched in the region.
Ruben Ibarra
Captain
With more than two decades at sea, Captain Ruben brings unmatched expertise and calm leadership to every voyage aboard M/V STORM. He earned his Patrón de Costa license from the Instituto Oceanográfico de Manzanillo in 2001, and since then has worked on offshore vessels of all sizes across North America.
For the past three years, Ruben has captained STORM throughout the Pacific Ocean, the Revillagigedo Archipelago, and the Gulf of California, leading expeditions with precision, safety, and a spirit of adventure.
Olegario Leon Alvarez
Captain Emeritus
Born in a remote fishing camp in Baja California Sur, Olegario has spent more than 40 years on the ocean — including over a decade with us aboard M/V Storm. A true seafaring legend, he brings unmatched knowledge of the waters and continues to be an active and valued member of our team.
Celso Nieto Alvarado
Chief Engineer
Celso has been the backbone of M/V Storm’s operations for nearly a decade, keeping the vessel running smoothly as a long-range expedition platform. Originally from Sinaloa, in the upper Gulf of California, he has called Baja home for many years. With more than 40 years of experience as a mechanic aboard commercial fishing vessels targeting shrimp, shark, and crab, Celso transitioned to tourism with us over a decade ago. Having logged tens of thousands of hours navigating both the Gulf of California and Mexico’s Pacific coast, his expertise and dedication ensure every expedition runs safely and reliably.
Ernesto Contreras
Dive Instructor / Specialized Guide
For over than six years, Ernesto has guided dozens of expeditions aboard M/V Storm, bringing unparalleled expertise and passion to every adventure. An accomplished photographer, videographer, and drone pilot, he has captured and shared hundreds of stunning images with our guests and the world. Beyond his work on Storm, Ernesto frequently serves as a production assistant on film shoots and as a specialized guide aboard the many mega yachts we support.
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Fluent in both Spanish and English, Ernesto is also a highly trained dive professional, holding certifications as an IANTD Technical Cave Instructor, Sidemount Instructor, DPV Instructor, Rebreather Instructor, and Gas Blender. His broad skill set, combined with his creativity and enthusiasm, makes him an invaluable member of our team.
Mariana Velez
Dive Instructor / Specialized Guide
Mariana is from Colombia, where she studied Communications with an emphasis in audiovisual production. She has extensive experience in the cultural sector, organizing and coordinating projects and festivals, as well as managing social media and digital content. In 2020, she joined our team in Baja to pursue her passion for tourism and the natural world. Mariana brings expertise in diving and environmental interpretation, and aboard M/V Storm she has guided numerous expeditions throughout the Gulf Islands—leading hikes, marine wildlife observation, and scuba diving adventures.
Ana Christina Mendoza
Dive Instructor / Specialized Guide
As a Mariner Biologist and Scuba Diving Instructor, Ana Christina is dedicated to raising awareness about the environment and the challenges faced by species and their habitats. Through her involvement in ocean conservation programs, she helps monitor, research, and protect marine species. By guiding responsible diving practices, she aims to motivate action and contribute to preserving underwater ecosystems.







