CAPTAIN ROBERT
Robert’s journey began on a South African farm, teaching him early the value of innovation and self-sufficiency. This foundation led him through various roles across the Eastern Cape, eventually to a prominent career in the yacht industry starting in 2006. As the Chief Engineer aboard the 164ft M/Y Chantel Ma Vie, he quickly showed his prowess. A chance to work alongside his wife brought him to M/Y El Jefe, where he moved up to Captain in 2009. His leadership has since guided numerous successful charters through the Caribbean, Bahamas, and along the US East Coast.
In 2022, Robert took the helm of M/Y Unbridled, promising unparalleled adventures. Known for his meticulous care and welcoming demeanor, he ensures a safe, enjoyable experience for all guests. Beyond his 200-ton yacht Master Offshore license, Robert is advancing his qualifications while expertly managing various onboard systems.
Away from the helm, Robert enjoys motocross, fishing, camping, and absorbing documentaries.
CHIEF STEWARDESS DAPHNE
Daphne, originally from Port Elizabeth, South Africa, dared to swap her life on land in the construction industry for adventures on the ocean. Alongside her husband, they embraced a life at sea over 14 years ago. She’s since built a reputation across yachts from 107ft to 200ft for her cool composure and positive outlook. What sets Daphne apart? Her knack for blending professionalism with warmth, meticulous attention to detail, and the seamless service she provides, always appearing exactly when needed to enhance guests’ experience. Beyond her role, Daphne’s passions include photography, discovering new places, and enjoying the simplicity of camping, hiking, or unwinding with a book or film.
CHEF RAPHAEL
Meet Chef Raphael, our culinary wizard from France. Growing up in a family of chefs, Raphael naturally developed a passion for cooking. With a career spanning over 30 years, including 17 years in the luxurious yachting industry, his journey took him from ritzy restaurants in Bath, UK, to exotic resorts across the Caribbean and the Pacific.
Raphael’s globe-trotting adventures through Africa, the Mediterranean, New Zealand, Tahiti, and the Americas have deeply enriched his cooking, blending a myriad of cultural influences into his dishes. Having completed 7 transatlantic crossings, he’s mastered the art of keeping yacht crews happy with nutritious and delicious meals. His culinary prowess hasn’t gone unnoticed; Raphael snagged the top award at the Antigua boat show’s Chef’s Competition three consecutive times, showcasing his expertise in French cuisine, sushi, Italian dishes, Mediterranean seafood, and comforting home meals.
Not only is Raphael lauded for his food, but he’s also cherished for his approachable, adaptable personality and commitment to excellence in the kitchen. When he’s not orchestrating culinary delights, Raphael embraces the great outdoors, from sailing to mountain trekking, maintaining an active lifestyle that includes tennis and hiking.
MATE/DIVE INSTRUCTOR JAMES
James, a seasoned dive instructor from Ontario, Canada, began his maritime adventure in 2016 on a Bahamas dive boat. His insatiable curiosity steered him from mastering diving to conquering the engineering challenges of dive boats, eventually earning him his captain’s license. After leading scuba divers through the Exuma islands for five years, his journey took him to commanding larger yachts, and exploring the Caribbean and Europe, but always drawn back to the Bahamas. Now on M/Y Unbridled, he combines his expertise and humorous spirit to enrich guest experiences with unforgettable dives and snorkeling in the rich Bahamian waters. Away from the waves, James enjoys strumming his guitar and indulging in horror films.
DECKHAND/STEWARD VERA
Vera, born in Belville and raised near Cape Town, spent her childhood on Kleimond’s sunny beaches, falling in love with the coastline’s allure. In 2015, she headed to Germany and during a trip to Southern Italy, got her first taste of the yachting world. Working on boats ranging from 80 to 320 feet, she navigated the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Mediterranean.
With a sharp business, entrepreneurship, and tourism background, Vera temporarily left yachting to contribute to a Cape Town startup focused on building city farms for community support. Known for her bright smile and engaging personality, she makes everyone feel welcomed aboard Unbridled, creating an atmosphere of ease and warmth. Vera’s commitment to people, and the planet, and her fondness for the outdoors shine through in her work and personal life. Off-duty, exploring, snorkeling, hiking, and embracing nature are her go-to activities, alongside enjoying great books and films.