CAPTAIN JASON
Born and raised in Durban, a vibrant coastal city in South Africa, Jason’s passion for the ocean began early. Whether surfing the waves, spearfishing, sailing, or honing his swing on the local golf course, his love for the sea shaped much of his youth. After graduating from Westville Boys High in 2008, Jason set his sights on a maritime career, embarking on his first yachting adventure in 2010.
With over 14 years of hands-on experience, Jason steadily worked his way up the ranks, ultimately earning his Masters 3000GT license in April 2021. His journey as a captain has been nothing short of exhilarating, having previously helmed the esteemed motor yacht Loon. Now, as captain of the luxurious motor yacht South for over a year, Jason continues to deliver exceptional experiences, combining his deep-seated love for the sea with his extensive expertise and leadership.
His commitment to excellence and his personable nature have earned him a stellar reputation, ensuring unforgettable journeys for every guest aboard.
CAPTAIN OLLIE (ROTATIONAL)
Captain Ollie grew up in the English countryside, far from the sea, but his family’s beach house in Salcombe, Devon sparked a lifelong love for the ocean. After beginning his career as a letting agent in the UK, he moved to the Mercedes Benz Insurance Department before quickly realizing that a desk job wasn’t for him. In 2011 Ollie entered the yachting industry, joining his first boat in La Ciotat, France.
With over a decade of experience on yachts ranging from 43 to 65 meters, Ollie is dedicated to creating exceptional guest experiences and is known for his hands-on leadership and passion for building a high-performing crew. He’s an advocate for teamwork, communication, and leading by example, which is apparent though day to day operations onboard. Ollie always strives to exceed guest expectations with surprise events and excursions, aiming to make each trip unforgettable. Ultimately, he always wants to see charter guests with a smile on their face.
When Ollie is not on board, you can find him out on the golf course, riding his road bike, or in his ice bath.
CHIEF OFFICER SCOTT
Scott grew up on a dairy farm in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Karoo, where he spent his days immersed in the rugged outdoors. Later, he moved to the coastal city of Port Elizabeth to complete his schooling, enjoying every opportunity to be at the beach. His love for the outdoors eventually led him to the yachting industry in 2012. Leaving a career in finance, Scott took a chance on yachting at the encouragement of a good friend, and is still here twelve years later.
As Chief Officer, Scott handles navigation, oversees crew training, ensures rigorous safety standards, and keeps the yacht in immaculate condition. His goal is to become a captain with a fun, outgoing, and professional crew that creates a welcoming, “feel-good” atmosphere for guests. He’s passionate about exceeding guest expectations, from arranging memorable activities to sharing his local knowledge so guests can discover hidden gems they’ll want to return to.
When he’s not on board, Scott enjoys golf, fishing, hiking, and spending time in nature. When his yachting career is finished, he has a goal of building a cattle farm in the Karoo area.
CHIEF OFFICER CHRISTOPHER (ROTATIONAL)
Christopher grew up on the sun-soaked beaches of Durban, South Africa, where he spent his youth bodyboarding, fishing, and exploring the endless stretches of coastline. Eager to escape the typical 9-to-5 routine and explore the world, he took the leap into the yachting industry in 2012, inspired by friends already in the industry.
Christopher’s greatest asset is his approachable and friendly demeanor, which he extends to both guests and crew. He takes pride in his work, always balancing professionalism with genuine warmth. Christopher is dedicated to giving charter guests an unforgettable experience with itineraries that showcase each destination’s best-kept secrets—from hidden beaches and breathtaking hikes to incredible local restaurants in remote areas.
In his spare time, Christopher loves staying active with rugby, tennis, golf, paddling, wake surfing, hiking, foiling, and running. His true passion, however, lies in food, and he enjoys teaching others to bake bread or cook seafood over an open fire. When he eventually steps ashore for good, he dreams of opening a tapas and music lounge with his wife and son.
SECOND OFFICER ISAAC
Isaac epitomizes exceptional athletic talent, representing his country in both archery and skydiving by age 16, winning national championships in each. Known for his versatility across sports, he effortlessly shares his expertise, particularly in water sports, with enthusiasts eager to learn.
His yachting journey began six years ago, influenced by his adventurous aunt and uncle. Starting as a deckhand, Isaac’s dedication quickly elevated him to chief officer on M/Y SOUTH. Isaac’s enthusiasm extends beyond the deck, finding adventure in the sky, sea, and mountainous terrains alike. His life is a testament to pursuing passions with vigor and inspiring others to explore the richness of their capacities.
CHIEF ENGINEER MARCO
Marco, an ex-tanker ship engineer for 6 years, made his mark in the yachting world 11 years ago. His first venture was as a 2nd engineer on a 61-meter yacht in Singapore. For Marco, yachting isn’t just a job; it’s an adventure. It’s allowed him to meet diverse people, including celebrities, and fueled his passion for travel. Exploring new islands and pristine beaches reminds him of home. Off-duty, he enjoys reggae, playing drums, and soccer. Known as “Ninjaneer” for his swift, ninja-like problem-solving skills, Marco carries an infectious positivity, believing every problem has a solution.
SECOND ENGINEER EDIER
Edier was born and raised on the beautiful island of Cebu in the Philippines, where he developed a love for nature and adventure. With over eight years in the maritime industry, he began his career in 2013 on ultra-large container ships, sailing around the globe. In 2019, he transitioned into the yachting world, drawn to the unique work-life balance it offers, along with the opportunity to explore exotic destinations.
His first position in yachting was as an engineer on a 41m catamaran based in Italy, which sparked his passion for this new journey. Since then, he has worked on larger yachts, including a 70m Lürssen, where he served as a 3rd Engineer. Now, with over five years in yachting, Edier enjoys the hands-on challenges and excitement of his role, always guided by his favorite motto: “Knowledge is just part of understanding; genuine understanding comes from hands-on experience.” Edier’s greatest asset on board is his positive outlook, which helps him navigate even the toughest situations with optimism and resilience.
In his spare time, he enjoys exploring new places, immersing himself in nature.
CHEF RONN
Ron’s journey from a family involved in hospitality in Germany to launching a successful Juice bar, Altitude, in Australia exemplifies his advent in the culinary world. From an early age, involved in his family’s Bar/Restaurant, and he carried the passion into crafting his mark with Altitude, transforming a $25,000 project into a $250,000 success in just two years.
His culinary ventures took a significant turn in 2007 with the opportunity to sail the yachting world, combining his skill for preparing fresh, light dishes and diversifying his craft across modern American to Japanese styles. At home, Ron unwinds with family and his Great Danes, staying fit and enjoying movies.
Through a blend of entrepreneurial spirit and culinary innovation, Ron continues to make impactful contributions to gastronomy, bringing his unique blend of flavors and experiences to the forefront.
CHIEF STEWARDESS JILENE
Growing up in the sunny mountains of South Africa, Jilene developed a love for animals, adventure, and the outdoors from an early age. With over a decade in yachting, she seamlessly combines her passion for travel and hospitality, making every charter a memorable experience for guests. Prior to joining the yachting industry, Jilene taught English in China and Cambodia and gained valuable skills working as a PA and childcare events coordinator.
Jilene brings a unique blend of enthusiasm, structure, and expertise, always looking to elevate her skills and exceed guests’ expectations. Her goal is to provide an effortless experience for guests, ensuring they can relax completely and feel wowed by every detail of their journey. Known for her bubbly, positive personality, she fosters a warm, collaborative atmosphere on board.
In her free time, you can find Jilene swimming, hiking, or eating her way around the world.
SECOND STEWARDESS GABBY
Gabby hails from Brisbane, Australia. As a child, she eagerly took part in every water and land sport she could find, with a special passion for swimming and dancing. Her career in hospitality began at just 14, leading her to bartend and work in restaurants across London and Barcelona. It was during her two years in Barcelona that Gabby was first introduced to the yachting lifestyle in the Mediterranean—and once she heard about the industry, she couldn’t resist diving in.
Gabby brings a bubbly, positive energy to life on board, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests and helping the crew bond through shared activities. She’s committed to making every charter a memorable experience, dedicated to ensuring guests have the most fun, carefree, and unforgettable holiday imaginable, with smiles from start to finish.
Outside of yachting, Gabby is passionate about health and wellness and dreams of starting her own business in the field one day. In her spare time, she loves to stay active and enjoy the outdoors. Whether it’s yoga, running, hiking, surfing, diving, or skiing, Gabby is always up for an adventure!
THIRD STEWARDESS JUSTINE
Justine grew up on a farm just outside the coastal town of Port Alfred, South Africa, where she developed a love for the outdoors. Her family was always on the move, spending weekends on camping and hiking adventures. This adventurous spirit carried her into the yachting world in 2017, when she took her first role on a sailboat in Norway. Since then, she has expanded her expertise, working on a variety of yachts.
Now serving as a 3rd Stewardess, Justine takes pride in upholding the highest standards throughout the yacht’s interior, ensuring every detail is perfectly arranged for the guests’ comfort. Known for her motivation to keep the yacht immaculate, she wants every guest who steps on board to experience an unforgettable vacation, enjoying both exceptional service and stunning destinations.
In her spare time, you can find Justine enjoying Pilates, running, hiking, diving, and paddling as a member of the Kowie Paddling Club back home. Outside of her career, Justine dreams of starting her own flower farm.
STEWARDESS
Alaina grew up in a quaint village in the Scottish countryside near Loch Lomond, where she loved to enjoy the glorious hiking and topography that the area has to offer. Drawn to the idea of seeing the world and immersing herself in new cultures, Alaina joined the yachting industry to combine her love of adventure with her passion for service.
On board, Alaina is dedicated to keeping the yacht’s interior pristine, handling housekeeping, laundry, and occasionally assisting with service. Known for her infectious positivity, she brings laughter and warmth to the team, helping to create a happy and welcoming atmosphere on board. Alaina is committed to making every guest feel valued, attentive to even the smallest details to provide them with an exceptional and personalized experience.
Outside of yachting, Alaina enjoys yoga, running, snorkelling, going to the gym, hiking, and playing the guitar. Her greatest passion, however, is cheerleading—which she practiced for many years throughout her childhood.
DECKHAND EDIER
Edier has been in the maritime industry for more than 8 years. He spent his first 5 years in ultra-large container ships cruising around the world until he heard about the yachting industry in 2019. He found his first job as an engineer on a 41m catamaran that was based in Italy. He has also worked on a 70m Lurssen as a 3rd engineer. Edier has been in the yachting industry for more than 3 years now. He finds yachting challenging yet fun. Edier believes in the saying ‘Knowledge is just part of understanding, genuine understanding comes from hands-on experience. Hobbies: Hiking, Traveling.
DECKHAND SJ
SJ grew up in a small town in the heart of South Africa, but his love for adventure and seeing the world drew him to the yachting industry in 2022. He’s always been active and driven playing professional rugby and competing in bodybuilding competitions. Before yachting, SJ worked as a sales representative and personal trainer, experiences that helped shape his friendly, energetic approach to his role as a Deckhand.
Known for his ability to bring great energy and “all the vibes” on deck, SJ creates a fun yet professional environment, always ensuring guests feel relaxed and have an unforgettable time on board. Outside of yachting, he dreams of managing Airbnb properties and becoming a gym owner.
In his spare time, SJ is drawn to outdoor activities like hiking, running, and, of course, hitting the gym. He’s also a passionate car enthusiast.
DECKHAND TRISTAN
Tristan grew up in the laid-back coastal town of Umdloti, South Africa, where days spent on the beach were a way of life. His love for the sea was sparked early, spending countless weekends and holidays exploring the Indian Ocean on his family’s boats.
Since starting his yachting career in 2021, Tristan has brought a perfect balance of organization and humor to every team he is a part of, making sure things get done with a smile. He is currently working toward his Officer of the Watch 3000 certification, with hopes of moving up to an officer role. Tristan is dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences for guests, leaving them with memories that will last a lifetime.
When he is not busy onboard, he loves to explore new destinations and surf and free dive whenever possible.
BOSUN LIAM
Before yachting, Liam worked as both a Surf Coach and Dive Instructor, sharing his passion for the ocean with others. Now, as Bosun, he takes pride in ensuring the yacht’s decks run smoothly and that every detail is handled to the highest standard. His goal is to create an unforgettable, safe experience for charter guests, helping them relax and enjoy their time onboard.
In his spare time, you can likely find Liam out surfing or enjoying time with friends.
Liam grew up in the laid-back surf town of Ballito, where he developed a lifelong love for the ocean. Between beach days with his younger siblings and adventures on his family’s farm in the Drakensberg Mountains, he was constantly surrounded by nature. At 14, he joined his dad on a surf charter in Indonesia—a trip that sparked his dream of a career on the water.