Our Team

Travels with Friends LLC began in 2001 as a dream, but has flourished as a result of satisfied clients and ever growing demand. Travels with Friends is a LLC (Limited Liabilty Company). The Private Shore Trips web site was created in 2006 to better serve our clients. If there is one thing we all share, it is passion for Europe and a strong desire to offer the best shore trips possible in the ports we serve. You can visit our original site to see what else we offer by clicking our crest in the left hand column.

Steven Hurley is the founder of Travels with Friends LLC.  He was a key Travel Consultant at a multi-state full-service travel agency prior to starting Travels with Friends. He has earned the CTA -Certified Travel Associate designation, as well as France Destination Specialist, Bavarian Ambassador and Portugal Specialist. 

Steven is the majority owner and President of Travels with Friends.  He writes the web site, coordinates local tour operators and vendors to provide tours and sets the vision for the future of the companies.

Favorite Port of Call: Villefranche - Provençal Hilltop Towns Tour

Ken Diaz became a partner and investor in Travels with Friends LLC in 2007.  Working closely with clients to arrange private tours, he is responsible for many administrative responsibilities and brings over 19 years of experience in superior customer service and client management.  Ken and his wife joined our first small group trip to Germany in 2001 and have been hooked ever since. 

Favorite Port of Call: Istanbul - Full Day Highlights of Istanbul Tour

Roger Tinsman is the co-founder of Travels with Friends LLC and he is responsible primarily for web graphic design including photos, logos and text editing. He has been traveling to Europe since 1973 when he attended school in Friedrichshafen, Germany, and then spent a year traveling the Continent. Roger and Steven have been traveling to Europe together for over 16 years and combined have visited 23 countries during their 52 trips. 

Favorite Port of Call: Santorini - The Best of Santorini Full Day Tour

Jan Bartol began working with Travels with Friends LLC in 2005. She works diligently with clients to arrange the perfect private shore trips or organized day tours. She is a stay at home mom who loves all things Italian and relishes traveling to Europe with her husband. 

Favorite Port of Call: Civitavecchia - Best of Roma Full Day Tour