THE ANNEX

Captain: Ryan Duncan (30)

Ryan grew up on a farm just outside of Richards Bay, just north of Durban, South Africa. Starting from a young age he was very involved with the maintenance of the tractors and other machinery on the farm, which pushed him to attend an intense trade school to become a Diesel Mechanic. After his schooling Ryan worked as a diesel mechanic for 5 years in South Africa wondering what was next for him? Growing up with family weekends and holidays spent on the waters of Richards Bay, ranging from water-skiing, tubing, diving, as well as traveling throughout Africa only further fed the flame for traveling outside of Africa and what will be next? Ryan found himself in a small island in the BVI as Dive Instructor for 3 years, working with Sunchaser Scuba on Virgin Gorda. Teaching people how to dive and sharing his passion for the underwater world to fellow guest and peers, he knew this is what he truly loved. Developing skill sets such as boat handling, teaching, and the ways of the water Ryan was finally able to pursue his long lost dream to venture into the Mega Yacht industry. The last 2 years Ryan quickly worked his way up to Mate/Engineer on a 35M motor yacht and working on several charter boats ranging from 35-45 meters, while obtaining his 200 ton captains license. Ryan’s love for the islands and the people, is what brought him back to the BVI. Ryan is looking forward sharing with the guest his little rock, and a place he once again can call home. Welcome onboard The Annex!

Chef / Mate: Roma Stopforth (59)

Chef Roma Stopforth is from South Africa. She has over 30 years experience in the Restaurant and Hospitality industry. She has both worked in and owned her own restaurants. She is very experienced in all types of cuisine. She is happy and able to cater for most dietary needs.

For the last 8 years, Roma has called the Caribbean home. This is reflected in her dishes using local products and flavors to create unique, wonderful fusion dishes. Her meal never fail to impress.

Roma has an outgoing personality and loves to entertain her guests and spoil them with fine food. She also has a vast knowledge of the BVI and loves to share it!

Qualifications: 30 years at the University of life cooking school. STCW 2010. PADI Dive Master. Emergency First Responder.

Languages: English, Afrikaans

Stewardess: Carly Benjamin (33)

Carly grew up in Florida and spent her childhood holidays between the Florida Keys and the British Virgin Islands in the Caribbean. Spending so much time on wonderful clear blue waters, it was only natural to find a way to continue to make a career out of it. Knowing that hospitality was her passion and a people person by nature, Carly started of working in the hotel industry and moved from Tampa, Fl down to Fort Lauderdale, FL working in events/concierge. 10 years ago, she decided to leave the hotel company and venture into the Mega Yacht world. Carly worked her way up to Chief Stewardess/Purser in the last 10 years on heavy charter boats ranging from 45-55 meters. Although she has traveled to many places through yachting, one of her all-time favorites is back down in the BVI’s. Carly has spent the majority of her adult life working in and or visiting the BVI. When Carly is not working, she enjoys activities such as surfing, hiking, and anything that has to do with the ocean. Carly is looking forward to this next adventure aboard The Annex, and excited to share with the guest her favorite gems of the island, and to exceed your expectations while onboard. Come sail away with us!