Captain: Ken Maff
Captain Ken Maff was born in Perth, Australia, and has been at sea since he was twelve. He is a qualified Marine Biologist with extensive experience in commercial aquaculture, fishing, diving, and marine engineering. In the summer of 1998, he joined the yachting industry in the Mediterranean and quickly progressed his way up the ranks from deckhand to Captain with a Master 3000-ton license in 2001. His extensive international yachting experience of large tonnage super yachts includes private and charter vessels with over 25 years of experience and more than 250 000 miles across the world’s oceans.
Captain Ken is also an environmental technologist advocating for the marine environment, having been involved in many research expeditions. He has leveraged an extensive network of highly respected marine scientists interested in marine research, restoration, and exploration. His other skill sets include engineering, new build yacht design with advanced CAD, and 3D concept skills for rapid design and prototyping using Rhino and 3D printing.
In 2018 he founded Sea Life Rescue, a nonprofit providing nature-based solutions to reducing humanity’s impact on the ecosystems and rejuvenation the marine environment.
Captain Ken’s mission is to make people aware of the problem and that we have the solution. If we are to save our oceans, we must act now before it is too late. When Captain Ken is not freelancing in yachting, he speaks at community events and looks forward to spreading this message to as many people as possible. In his spare time, Captain Ken is tinkering with the latest technology and gadgets, 3D printers, flying drones, photography, diving, fishing, mountain bike riding, or enjoying a good movie.
Captain - Rotational: Marcus Van Oort
Captain Marcus is a respected leader in the yachting industry, known for his exceptional skills and dedication. Born in New York, Marcus transitioned from a successful 18-year career in the restaurant industry, where he owned a popular Manhattan Bar & Bistro, to yachting through his passion for diving.
After becoming a scuba instructor in the Caribbean and Pacific, Marcus pursued Coast Guard licensing and began his yachting career. Since 2011, he has captained the renowned PERLE BLEUE, following successful roles on vessels like SYCARA IV and NEVER ENOUGH.
Marcus is highly regarded for his ability to lead and motivate a skilled crew, ensuring smooth operations and a positive atmosphere onboard. His steady demeanor and good humor contribute to his reputation as a calm and composed leader, even in challenging situations.
Captain Marcus remains committed to excellence in service, safety, and creating unforgettable experiences for guests, combining his hospitality and maritime expertise to make every voyage extraordinary.
Chief Engineer - Rotational: Guillermo Pinto
Meet our Chief Engineer, a highly skilled and experienced professional from Argentina. With a proven track record in the maritime industry, our Chief Engineer brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our superyacht.
His creative and resourceful approach to problem-solving, coupled with his excellent communication and adaptability, ensures smooth and efficient operation. With a diverse background that includes working on oil tankers, our Chief Engineer is well-versed in a wide range of engines, including Caterpillar, Cummins, MTU, Rolls Royce, B&W-MAN, and Wartsila.
His ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and his eagerness to learn new technologies make him a valuable asset to our team. With a passion for exploring different cultures, our Chief Engineer has had the opportunity to work with international crew and travel to various destinations around the world, including crossing the Atlantic and Indian Ocean. His global perspective and cultural sensitivity contribute to a harmonious and inclusive working environment.
Chief Engineer - Rotational: Daniel Facundo Cuellar
Facundo Cuellar is a highly motivated and results-oriented Chief Engineer with a proven track record of success in the maritime industry. His unwavering dedication to excellence and his thirst for new challenges make him a valuable asset to any superyacht crew.
Driven by a strong work ethic and a genuine respect for his colleagues, Facundo thrives in collaborative environments. His leadership skills are honed by years of managing teams and ensuring smooth operation of propulsion systems on various vessels. His experience spans oil tankers, bulk carriers, and fishing vessels.
Facundo's expertise lies in the operational and maintenance of propulsion systems, including steam plants and dual-fuel diesel engines. He is adept at maintenance management, ensuring the vessel's machinery runs at peak efficiency.
Beyond his technical skills, Facundo's fluency in English and Spanish fosters effective communication and collaboration with international crew. He holds a comprehensive suite of STCW certifications and has completed various training courses.
When not navigating the seas, Facundo actively seeks personal and professional growth. He holds an Engineer Officer degree and a partial degree in Mechanical Engineering, demonstrating his commitment to continuous learning.
First Officer - Rotational: Cade Pia
Hailing from the sun-kissed beaches of Australia's Gold Coast, Cade's connection to the sea is deeply ingrained. Growing up surrounded by the beauty of the coastline, Cade developed a love for the water that would shape his professional journey in the maritime world.
Cade's journey began with the picturesque landscapes of
Europe. For several years, he worked in tour operations and guidance schemes nestled in the French and Austrian Alps.
Driven by a desire to be close to the water, Cade found his way to the Mediterranean Sea. In 2010, he embarked on his yachting career as a deckhand on a super yacht. This marked the beginning of a globetrotting odyssey that has taken him from the Red Sea to the Caribbean and Central America.
Among the myriad of destinations he's explored, Cade's heart lies in the crystal blue waters and pristine sandbars of the Exuma Island chain in the Bahamas. His affinity for this tropical paradise is evident, and he takes pride in showcasing the beauty of the Bahamas to charter guests.
When not navigating the seas or tending to charter guests, Cade dedicates his time to learning about business, entrepreneurship, and building skills in the Web 3 space. His multifaceted interests reflect a commitment to personal and professional growth beyond the maritime domain.
First Officer - Rotational: Chris George
Hailing from England and raised in Germany, Chris brings 17 years of yachting experience to the table. Chris’ passion for sailing started in his youth, exploring the waters of England, which sparked his career in the maritime world. Throughout his extensive career, Chris has garnered significant experience navigating the Mediterranean, from Italy to Croatia, and he’s now eager to explore the vibrant Caribbean and USA waters.
As a seasoned Chief Officer working his way to achieving his captain's license, Chris is dedicated to ensuring the safety and smooth operation of every voyage. Known for his friendly demeanor, calm nature, and good sense of humor, Chris excels at creating a positive atmosphere on board. Chris is highly interactive and approachable, making him a pleasure to be around. When not on duty, he enjoys quality time with his family and golden retriever, embodying a well-rounded, personable presence that enhances every journey.
Chef: Jack
He is a well-presented and experienced British chef, known for his strong work ethic, impeccable hygiene standards, and drama-free approach to his culinary career. With 18 years of professional cooking experience and 5 years in the yachting industry, he has had the privilege of traveling to various destinations, including Australia, New Zealand, India, Europe, Southeast Asia, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. This diverse exposure has broadened his culinary expertise, allowing him to work with unique ingredients, collaborate with people from different backgrounds, and discover new cuisines.
Culinary Style:
His cuisine is characterized by fresh, healthy, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, featuring expertly grilled meats and fish, paired with vibrant salads. He takes pride in preparing modern, innovative, and refined cuisine for charter, private, family, and crew settings. His passion lies in creating memorable dining experiences that delight the senses and leave a lasting impression.
Chief Stewardess - Rotational: Minh Nguyen
As an experienced yacht stewardess with more than 15 years of experience in the industry, Minh has honed her skills in maintaining the interior of the yacht to a 5-star standard, ensuring exceptional service and hospitality for guests and crew. Her responsibilities have included dinning and cocktail services, inventory management and provisioning, and housekeeping and laundry services. She has ensured timely and efficient replenishment of supplies, maintained impeccable cleanliness and organization throughout the vessel, and provided personalized service and attention to detail.
But what really sets Minh apart is her ability to surprise and delight guests with her creativity and flair. She might just surprise you with a signature cocktail, expertly crafted and garnished, or a stunning table setting that sets the tone for an unforgettable evening. Whether it's arranging onshore entertainment, coordinating guest events, or managing travel logistics, Minh tailors every experience to meet individual guest preferences and needs, always with a smile and a passion for excellence. Her extensive experience and dedication to her craft have earned her a reputation as one of the most exceptional yacht stewardesses in the industry.
Chief Stewardess - Rotational: Sandra Hakansson
Sandra is a highly experienced and dedicated Chief Stewardess with a passion for creating exceptional onboard experiences. With a background in hospitality and a love for travel, she has seamlessly transitioned into the yachting industry, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and a warm, approachable demeanor.
Hailing from Sweden, Sandra sought warmer climates and cultural experiences, leading her to Spain where she honed her language skills and gained valuable experience in the hospitality sector. Her journey into yachting began in 2016, and since then, she has worked on a variety of yachts, ranging from 44 to 65 meters, both private and charter.
Sandra's meticulous attention to detail and exceptional organizational skills ensure the smooth running of the interior. She excels at tailoring each trip to the specific needs and preferences of her guests, creating a personalized and unforgettable experience. Her calm and positive attitude contributes to a harmonious and enjoyable onboard atmosphere.
When not on board, Sandra enjoys exploring the stunning island of Mallorca, hiking in the mountains, and spending quality time with friends and family.
Engineer/ Deckhand: Thomas Costello
Thomas grew up in Dublin Ireland. He joined Scouting Ireland at the age of 4 and that’s where his love of adventure and the outdoors began. At 18 Thomas became a scout leader himself, passing his knowledge and skills on to the next generation. From an early age it was clear that problem solving and understanding tasks with simplicity came naturally to him, so he went on to study Mechanical Engineering. Thomas has always found a hands-on learning approach to be the most efficient way to put your knowledge to the test so after college he began his training to enter the yachting industry.
Thomas is well travelled and loves learning new skills from skiing to diving and anything in between. Along with his team he looks forward to helping guests have that fun filled trip they’ve always wanted.
Bosun: Chad Marx
Chad, an accomplished sailor with an insatiable curiosity for discovery, contributes an abundance of maritime expertise to the Bahamas charter yacht staff. Since his inception in the offshore industry, when his passion for the sea was ignited, he has cruised aboard numerous vessels, acquiring hands-on experience in a variety of maritime domains.
Chad has visited a multitude of nations on his voyage, and each of them has added to his extensive
collection of experiences. Chad's travels have exposed him to a wide range of destinations, including the coastlines of Grenada, the Bahamas, the landscapes of Europe (including France, Italy, and Spain), and the picturesque St. Barths.
Chad's dedication to meaningful connections is exemplified by his strong familial relationships with his mother, father, and sister. His approach to hospitality is influenced by his familial background; he not only guarantees the well-being and satisfaction of visitors but also cultivates an ambiance reminiscent of being with extended family aboard the yacht.
Chad commenced his maritime expedition aboard a variety of vessels, such as catamarans, ferries, and deep-sea tuna fishing vessels. Chad assumes
the pivotal position of the Bosun in the yacht's operations, contributing a synergy of pragmatic expertise and an unwavering dedication to distinction.
Deckhand: Ross Davey
Ross, a dedicated member of the Sur La Mer crew, brings a unique blend of technical expertise and nautical passion. Originally hailing from Kenya and educated in the UK, Ross's decade-long career in Naval Architecture provides him with a deep understanding of yacht design and construction. His transition to the role of Deckhand is a testament to his versatility and commitment to the maritime industry. With a wealth of experience cruising the Solent, Firth of Clyde, Indian Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, and Caribbean, Ross's knowledge of diverse waters is invaluable. His extensive qualifications, including STCW, RYA/MCA Yacht Master Offshore, and various technical certifications including Naval Architecture, ensure his competence in all aspects of yacht operations. Beyond his professional duties, Ross's active hobbies such as running, sailing, kitesurfing, and drone flying contribute to his physical and mental well-being, making him a well-rounded and enthusiastic member of our team.
Second Stewardess: Camila Forero
Allow me to introduce Camila with the utmost excitement and a warm, welcoming spirit! Hailing from the vibrant city of Bogota, Colombia, she brings a fusion of professionalism, cultural savvy, and boundless enthusiasm.
With a solid academic background in Finance and International Relations, coupled with years of
orchestrating corporate events and conferences, Camila ventured into the enchanting realm of yachting back in 2017. Since then, I've embarked on exhilarating journeys along the East Coast of the USA, the mesmerizing waters of the Bahamas, and the captivating Mediterranean.
Her tenure in this wondrous industry has not only honed her hospitality prowess but has also gifted Camila with priceless encounters with diverse cultures and personalities. Each voyage has been a tapestry of unforgettable moments, and I am thrilled to extend that same magic to your experience.
As we traverse the seas, I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of global cultures, exchanging stories and creating cherished memories along the way. And fret not, my
dear travelers, for I come equipped with a treasure trove of interests, from fitness and sports to culinary delights and the melodic strains of music.
Prepare to be dazzled by my penchant for exquisite table decorations, delighted by themed soirées under the stars, and greeted by an ever-present smile that reflects my dedication to ensuring your charter vacation transcends all expectations.
Stewardess: Bianca De Lange
As a guest, you have the pleasure of being attended to by Bianca, a stewardess with a captivating
background that echoes the beauty of South Africa's coastal landscapes. Bianca's roots extend through a multinational family, creating a cultural tapestry that spans from America to the Netherlands and Australia.
Bianca's formative years were shaped by the stunning coastlines of South Africa, where she not only pursued her education but also fueled her passion for sports, while concurrently completing her Psychology degree. This blend of academic achievement and athletic prowess showcases her multifaceted approach to life.
Prior to her yachting career, Bianca served as an event planner and service coordinator for a non-profit organization. This experience not only honed her organizational skills but also instilled in her a keen sense of maintaining clean and inviting spaces—qualities that seamlessly align with the expectations of luxury yachting.
In April 2023, Bianca embarked on a new chapter of her life as a stewardess, seeking fresh challenges and the opportunity to explore the world. Her decision to enter the yachting industry reflects her adventurous spirit and commitment to providing impeccable service in a dynamic setting.
Steward: Dayton Coetzer
Dayton is a 22-year-old yachting professional from Johannesburg, South Africa, who has quickly established himself as a dedicated steward in the high-end yachting industry over the past three years. His journey into yachting began with a passion for providing exceptional service, and he has since honed his skills in managing guest needs and ensuring a welcoming environment on board. Dayton's attention to detail is meticulous; he takes great pride in creating memorable experiences for guests, always striving to exceed their expectations.
His role as a steward goes beyond the basics of service; he is adept at anticipating guests' needs, whether it's preparing exquisite meals, organizing activities, or ensuring that every aspect of their stay is tailored to their preferences. His ability to maintain a calm and friendly demeanor in high-pressure situations is a testament to his professionalism and commitment to excellence.
When he's not aboard a yacht, Dayton's passion for the outdoors takes center stage. He enjoys camping, hiking, backpacking, and skiing, activities that not only invigorate him but also enhance his teamwork and leadership skills. These experiences in nature have taught him the importance of adaptability and resilience, qualities that translate seamlessly into his work in yachting.
