CAPTAIN CHARLES
With over 30 years in maritime service, Captain Charles began his illustrious career in 1986. Initially serving as a Water Safety Law Enforcement officer, he mastered several skills and achieved certifications in fields like emergency medical services and diving, along with a Commercial Diving degree from a local college. By 1989, his love for yachting took him to Italy, initiating his journey as a motor yacht captain.
Achieving a BS in Marine Transportation from Texas A&M Maritime College in 1994, Charles spent the next 17 years as a charter captain, embarking on 47 transatlantic and multiple other major navigational journeys, piloting yachts up to 813 feet. His career also includes a unique stint in tugboats which enhanced his maritime repertoire. Recently, Captain Charles maneuvered through regions including the Mediterranean, Asia, and Australia aboard the motor yacht Lady E.
Apart from professional sailing, Captain Charles enjoys diving, watching movies, and visiting the gun range. His vast experience and passion for the seas render him a quintessential figure in charter yachting.
CHIEF OFFICER JAMES
James is a 29-year-old Chief Officer and was born and raised in Cheshire, England. After high school James joined the Royal Marines Commandos. After completing eight and a half months of intense military training James later specialized as a landing craft coxswain. This has given him a unique insight and ability to ensure the safety of the guests, whilst still striving for the highest standards to create the best possible bespoke charter experiences on board. Constantly surpassing the expectations of guests, he has a passion for water sports and scuba diving.
James is a PADI Divemaster and has also completed his Jet ski instructors. Sports and being active is a big part of James’s life but he also enjoys fishing and is passionate about boxing and exploring new cultures. He now holds his Chief Mate <3000gt ticket and is working towards his Master <3000gt License.
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 BILL
Bill has been in the marine industry for more than 30 years. He has worked on commercial ships, oil field vessels, and yachts. Bill enjoys traveling in an RV with my wife and dog during his off time. Bill and his wife are currently looking into buying a home around the north-central Florida area. Hobbies: Camping and Fishing
CHIER 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.
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 KATE
Growing up in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, Kate developed an early passion for the hospitality industry, which led her to study Events Management and Wedding Planning in Stellenbosch. These studies shaped her understanding of crafting unforgettable experiences and set her on a path to the hospitality sector.
In 2010, Kate’s ambitions took her to England, working in a private members club in Henley on the Thames, further honing her skills. This experience was a stepping stone into luxury yachting, an industry she joined in 2011, exploring locations like the Bahamas, the Caribbean, and the South Pacific. Through her travels, Kate has leveraged her attention to detail and vibrant personality to curate unique experiences on the M/Y South.
Beyond her professional role, Kate’s adventurous spirit shines through in her love for travel and Pilates. She is not just part of the crew but a defining force behind the extraordinary journeys on M/Y South, personifying dedication to creating memorable moments and unrivaled hospitality.
SECOND STEWARDESS JUSTINE
Justine was born and raised in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. She grew up close to the sea, a water-loving person. Justine was a lifesaver on the beach, swam, and played water polo for her province. After her schooling, she studied Somatology (skin and health care). After completing her studies, she worked in various spas and salons which included managing her own Salon. Justine started her yachting career in 2016 in the spa and has worked her way up through different roles to be a well-rounded stewardess. Justine enjoys being creative and takes pride in everything that she does.
THIRD STEWARDESS CHERIZE
Cherize was born and raised in Pretoria the Capital of South Africa. She has a passion for hospitality and completed her degree in Tourism Management. After graduating, she discovered yachting in 2021 and found an even bigger love for the yachting community. Since joining the industry she’s had the privilege of working for one of the largest yachts in the world and traveled the Mediterranean Sea. Cherize always strives to make others laugh, she loves being around people and enjoys any type of sports activity
STEW/MASSEUSE KATE
Kate, our esteemed in-house Spa Therapist and Stewardess hails from the charming British coastal town of Brighton. With an innate sense of adventure and a rich background in spa therapy, Kate found her calling in yachting five years ago, drawn to its dynamic atmosphere and unparalleled experiences. Since then, she has graced the decks of prestigious charter yachts with demanding itineraries that have whisked her away to every corner of the globe, including the remote and captivating landscapes of Antarctica.
A certified rescue scuba diver, Kate’s affinity for the ocean extends beyond her professional duties, as she finds solace and joy in exploring its depths during her leisure time. Alongside her passion for scuba diving, Kate finds balance through the practice of yoga and indulges her wanderlust by traversing the globe, immersing herself in diverse cultures and landscapes.
With her unwavering dedication to service and her vibrant spirit of adventure, Kate enriches the onboard experience for guests and crew alike, ensuring that every moment at sea is infused with relaxation, rejuvenation, and unmatched luxury.
STEW PAIGE
Paige was born and raised in East London, South Africa. She was a competitive swimmer and loved exercising and keeping healthy which sparked her interest in personal training. After completing her personal training year course Paige went to Stellenbosch and became a Hairdresser. Paige is a people person and loves a good laugh. She always knew that she wanted to be in the yachting industry surrounded by amazing individuals whilst learning and experiencing so much.
DECKHAND DJ
Meet DJ, our energetic Deckhand from the University of Tennessee Chattanooga and a former D1 collegiate wrestler. Two years ago, he made a bold leap into the yachting world, trading mats for the majestic seas. DJ’s lively spirit brings a buzz to life onboard, turning every day into an adventure. He’s a natural at seeking thrills, whether steering through yacht life’s challenges or engaging in high-octane activities. Off duty, DJ’s athleticism shines in sports ranging from football to wrestling and volleyball, his vigor adding a unique spark to our crew.
DJ’s enthusiastic approach and adventurous heart aren’t just a plus; they’re what make any voyage with us memorably vibrant.
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 BORIS
Meet Boris, a basketball enthusiast turned skilled yachtsman. His love for basketball laid the foundation for teamwork and discipline, traits he carried over to his yachting career. Moving from his home country to Georgia introduced him to yachting, sparking an immediate connection with the sea that grew into a full-blown passion.
Boris effortlessly blends his love for the ocean with sports. Whether navigating the high seas, fishing, diving or keeping up with basketball and volleyball, his zest for life and adventure enriches our team. His journey illustrates a seamless transition from court to the yacht, underpinning each charter with his dynamic spirit and love for the ocean.
British Virgin Islands
