Our Team
Cynthia Sayko | Founder
Cynthia Sayko is the founder and owner of the Texas Country Music Cruise, where she combined two of her greatest passions: her love of cruising and her Texas-sized love of Texas country music. What began as a unique idea has grown into a destination experience that brings together fans, artists, and the Texas country music community at sea.
A multi-year winner of Royal Caribbean’s Travel Agent of the Year award, Cynthia is also the founder and owner of Luxx Vacations, a full-service travel agency specializing in cruise travel. As a Master Cruise Counselor and Group Cruise Specialist, she has built a career around creating exceptional travel experiences and bringing people together through group travel.
Cynthia earned her Bachelor of Science from the University of Colorado in 2003, with dual majors in International Business and Marketing. With more than two decades of experience in the travel industry, she brings together her expertise in cruising, group travel, business, and marketing to create memorable experiences both on and off the ship.
Eric Lenington | Music Director
Texas Country Music Cruise Music Director Eric Lenington is a Texas State University graduate, earning his Bachelor of Business Administration with honors (Cum Laude). After an 19-year career as a bassist, playing with notable Texas Country artists such as Kyle Park, Doug Moreland, Ryan James, and Peter Dawson, Eric transitioned his focus to music promotion. Through his company, Ten Gallon Entertainment, he has built a robust client base, becoming a trusted name in the industry. Now, Eric is excited to lead the Texas Country Music Cruiseas it becomes a vital part of the Texas Country Music Scene.
Hunter St. Marie | Sound Production
Hunter Saint Marie, head of Sound Production, has been affiliated with the Texas Music scene for many years. He spent time as guitarist for Bart Crow and Granger Smith, as well as sharing the stage with TCMC Music Director Eric Lenington as a part of the Doug Moreland Show.
Hunter started running live sound at Cheatham Street Warehouse in the early 2000s. Since then he has built his own live sound company and recording facility, Home Grown Studios. You can seem him currently performing as guitarist of the South Austin Moonlighters as well as Cari Hutson and Good Company.
Cari Hutson | Stage Manager
Cari Hutson, TCMC Stage Manager, not only has extensive experience behind the scenes, but a thriving career in the Austin Music Scene. She has multiple albums you can find anywhere music is streamed, and will be performing on our 2025 cruise.
Joe Trevino | Security
With years of experience in Texas law enforcement and a longstanding connection to the Texas Music Scene, Joe Trevino brings unique expertise to his role as Head of Security for the Texas Country Music Cruise. His deep appreciation for Texas Country music and live performances has made him a favorite among guests, and his dedication extends beyond security—he also forges meaningful connections with our valued sponsors, helping to shape the unforgettable TCMC experience.
Craig Vaughn | DJ & Emcee
For nearly a decade, Craig Vaughn has been a familiar voice and an integral part of the Texas Country Music Cruise experience. As the TCMC Master of Ceremonies and emcee, Craig keeps the energy high, the music flowing, and guests connected to everything happening throughout the week.
With his extensive Radio DJ experience behind the microphone and a genuine passion for Texas country music, Craig brings the perfect combination of professionalism, personality, and Texas spirit to the stage. From introducing artists and keeping guests informed to getting the crowd fired up between performances, he has become a recognizable and trusted part of the TCMC family.
Year after year, Craig helps create the atmosphere that makes TCMC more than just a cruise—it’s a community of Texas country music fans, artists, and friends coming together at sea.
After nearly ten years with TCMC, Craig isn’t just the voice behind the microphone—he’s part of what makes the Texas Country Music Cruise feel like home.