Kim . — Chef (South Africa)
Professional Background:
Kim was born in Cape Town, South Africa but grew up with a mostly Danish family. At the age of 18, she moved across the world to Aarhus, Denmark for a year where she Aupaired and looked after 2 young Danish children. Her upbringing meant that she has always had an interest and love for travel, and why not connect her 2 passions of cooking and travelling into one.
She started working in yachting in June of 2024, on a 47m, worked her way to a 60m M/Y and now Coral Ocean. She’s excited to provide memorable food and looks forward to the season’s ahead!
Favourite Charter Destination: Corsica
Hobbies: Gym, reading, listening to music, trying new coffee spots, exploring & going for walks
Previous Yachts: M/Y Arrow , M/Y Bacarella
Luke . — Deckhand (British)
Professional Background:
Luke has grown up in Surrey, UK. After leaving college he embarked on a 5 year degree
apprenticeship in Building Surveying where he obtained a First Class Honours degree in 2023. After taking some time off in 2024 to travel South East Asia Luke decided it was time to venture into yachting to travel and explore more of the world. Since then, he has worked as a Deckhand on two Motor Yachts including doing the Atlantic Crossing from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean. Luke is now looking forward to being apart of Coral Ocean to help in creating memorable experiences for the guests who have the pleasure of sailing on her.
Favourite Charter Destination: Antigua
Hobbies: Running, Golf, Football, Travelling
Previous Yachts: M/Y Carpe Diem and M/Y Pisces
Sandesh . — Steward (Nepalese)
Professional Background:
Sandesh likes to explore new places and used to go trekking in the Himalayan region of Nepal. He used to work at the British Gurkha Headquarters in Nepal before his life lead him to start a career at sea. Sandesh started working on Star Cruise Ships as a Housekeeper. Since 2018, he has worked as a Laundry Man on M/Y Flying Fox. He has an in depth understanding of the need for the highest quality laundry service to the guests. He now looks forward to providing an exemplary service onboard Coral Ocean!
Favourite Charter Destination: Capri, Italy
Hobbies: Travelling; Cooking; Trekking
Previous Yachts: M/Y Flying Fox
Will Kaye — Captain (United Kingdom )
Position: Captain
Rotation: 2:2 (19 June to 25 July, 1 October to December)
Nationality: British
Born: Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Languages: Fluent: English
Professional Background:
Will is a highly experienced charter captain having spent over 17 years as captain on
large charter yachts cruising worldwide. He has overseen every aspect of the rebuild of
Coral Ocean and is extremely excited and proud to show her amazing potential.
Originally from the north of England, Will now lives in Palma de Mallorca with his wife
and 2 daughters. He grew up sailing, and after graduating in Mechanical Engineering
pursuedacareer in yachting, first on sailing yachts then on large motor yachts.
An avid water sports fan, he counts kitesurfing as his favourite pastime and can be seen
out on the waves when the time allows.
Favourite Charter Destination: French Polynesia
Hobbies: Kitesurfing, Padel
Previous Yachts: M/Y Big Aron (World cruising charter yacht for 10 years) - M/Y Turmoil
(Expedition yacht) - M/Y Dream - M/Y Mischief
Chris . — Deckhand (British)
Growing up, Chris was always active and keen to be outside. He was involved in a number of sports with the main focus being on rugby, and played for 22 years up until his final year of university at Leeds Beckett. Pursuing a career in yachting has turned out to be the best decision Chris has made and he has not looked back since. Completing phase one of his UKSA cadetship and after three enjoyable years in the industry, Chris is looking forward to combining the great lifestyle of yachting and his passion for fitness in his role as deck/personal trainer and offering the best experience for the guests onboard.
Favourite Charter Destination: Croatia
Hobbies: Personal training: Rugby & padel
Previous Yachts: M/Y Blue 470, M/Y Talisman Maiton
Luke (Guinness) . — Deckhand (Irish)
Luke hails from Donegal on Ireland’s rugged northwest coast, where he grew up in a commercial fishing environment and developed a deep respect for the sea from an early age. With hands on experience in both fishing and oyster farming, he brings strong seamanship and practical problem solving skills to life onboard.
With a strong taste for adventure, Luke joined yachting and has enjoyed the working, traveling and socialising that life on a yacht makes possible. Luke is currently studying for his officers tickets and is enjoying learning and honing his skills. He is excited to share his passion for the sea; and perhaps even a little music with guests to create a truly memorable charter experience.
Favourite Charter Destination: Bonifacio
Hobbies: Running, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & playing music
Previous Yachts: M/Y IJE, M/Y Lady Kathryn V, M/Y Paloma
Matt . — Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) (British)
Professional Background:
Matt was born in Devon a small county in the southwest of England where he started his career in marine refits and new build boats as an Electrical Engineer.
Matt is keen a traveller, and before making the transition to yachting he took a gap year and travelled southeast Asia, Indonesia, and Australia.
In Matt’s spare time he enjoys being out on the water wake boarding, or with a racket in hand on the tennis court.
Favourite Charter Destination: St Lucia and Capri
Hobbies: Padel; Wakeboarding
Previous Yachts: M/Y Lady Georgina – M/Y Leander G
Ashleigh (Ash) . — Stewardess (South African)
Professional Background:
Ashleigh, born and raised in Johannesburg, has spent the past 11 years in Cape Town, she loves being close to nature. Her creative journey began with studies in fashion design and marketing, eventually leading her to the luxury handbag industry where she gained experience setting up pop up shops and providing service in the USA and UK. From there she discovered a passion for production, which saw her working as a creative producer for renowned brands like Puma, Adidas, and Freedom of Movement. Now turning 30, Ashleigh has decided to fulfill her long- standing dream of joining the yachting industry. Since transitioning to yachting, she has gained experience on yachts ranging from 35m to 140m. Ashleigh loves table scaping and floristry. She can make a mean Bailey's espresso martini and is excited to give guests a world class experience this season.
Favourite Charter Destination: Bahamas
Hobbies: Al design, dancing, mood boarding, hiking, yoga
Previous Yachts: M/Y lllusion V55 – M/Y Fatamorgana, M/Y NDA
Alan . — Chief engineer (British)
Professional Background:
Alan is Chief Engineer on MY Coral Ocean. He is from Liverpool where he lives with his girlfriend and young daughter. He joined the merchant navy aged 17 and has spent his career gaining experience in the commercial, offshore and yachting industries.
He enjoys DIY, socialising, meeting new people and he has a passion for sports, mainly football and boxing.
Favourite Charter Destination: Ibiza
Favourite Yachting Experience: Water sports with the charter guests
Previous Yachts: M/Y Sputnik
Stuart . — Engineer (South African)
Professional Background:
Stuart joined Coral Ocean before the exciting refit period in 2020 and has been a part of the CO program for a number of years already. He grew up on the coast of South Africa diving and fishing. He started in the yachting industry 17 years ago as a mate/ engineer on smaller sailing boats. Stu currently lives in Palma de Mallorca with his little family and enjoys beach days with his 6 year old son.
Favourite Charter Destination: Croatia, Antigua and Barbuda
Hobbies: Hiking with guests in remote & beautiful locations
Previous Yachts: M/Y Mischief – M/Y Margaret Anne - M/Y JO – S/Y Margaret Anne – S/Y Zaka A Te Monana – S/Y Billy Budd
Kirk . — Engineer (South African)
Professional Background:
Having grown up with masses of land to explore, Kirk was introduced to dirt bikes and his mechanical skills began to develop from maintaining his bikes. After college, Kirk obtained an apprenticeship with Caterpillar Machinery. After completing 8 years of service here, Kirk sought new challenges & adventures and went on to obtain his Yacht Master certificate and eventually his Yacht Engineering Degree. Kirk has worked with Coral Ocean on and off for a number of years now and knows the vessel extremely well, making him a valuable member of our engineering department.
Favourite Charter Destination: Croatia, Antigua and Barbuda
Hobbies: Hiking; Riding dirt bikes
Previous Yachts: M/Y Mimi
Sam . — Deckhand (British)
Professional Background:
Sam was born in Brighton, England, where he lived until the age of 10 before moving to the vibrant island of Mallorca. After finishing school, he eagerly took the opportunity to work in the French Alps for the winter. Upon returning to Mallorca, he pursued a career in the yachting industry, inspired by his previous experience on a stunning 41m yacht. The incredible destinations and valuable relationships he built during that time only fuelled his determination to excel in this field. After completing another successful winter season in France, Sam joined Coral Ocean. With a passion for the outdoors and a commitment to physical activity, he is fully prepared to provide guests with an unforgettable experience onboard.
Favourite Charter Destination: Mallorca
Hobbies when not on board: Skiing, Pool
Shank . — Steward (Sri Lankan)
Professional Background:
Shank, is the Laundry Master on board Coral Ocean. He is a Sri Lankan national with a professional yachting background. Shank's loves traveling around the world, and his most cherished yachting experience was his first time crossing the equator. He has previously worked on MY Kingdom 5kr and MY Caipirinha and enjoys walking as a hobby when not on board.
Favourite Charter Destination: All around the world
Hobbies: Walking; Family time
Previous Yachts: M/Y Kingdom 5kr – M/Y Caipirinha
Daphne (Daph) — Stewardess (Australian/Brazilian)
Professional Background:
Daphne grew up on Sydney's Northern Beaches, immersed in the stunning waterways of Pittwater. Her passion for boating was ignited by her grandfather and father, who frequently took her on exciting adventures—swimming, fishing, and exploring the vast ocean. Those thrilling moments fuelled her deep love for the sea and life on the water. Daphne truly enjoys creating unforgettable experiences for her guests, so they can relax, explore, and craft memories that last a lifetime.
Favourite Charter Destination: Italy
Hobbies: Surfing, yoga, pilates, tennis and reading
Previous Yachts: M/Y Mischief, M/Y Rascal, M/Y Austarlia, M/Y Zephyr
Nick . — First Officer (Zimbabwean)
Position: Chief Officer
Rotation: 2:2
Nationality: Zimbabwean
Born: Zimbabwe
Languages: English
Professional Background:
Nick was born in Zimbabwe. He moved to the Eastern Cape in South Africa for his education. He has always had a strong passion for the ocean and started his career at sea on pearl diving boats in the Timor Sea off the Northern coast of Australia. Nick has been in the yachting industry for 10 years and looks forward to a long career, progressing through the ranks to become a Captain one day. In his free time, Nick enjoys being outdoors, fly fishing, playing polo and spending quality time with his family on horseback safaris or overlanding in wilderness areas.
Favourite Charter Destination: Sardinia
Hobbies: Diving & Kite Surfing
Previous Yachts: M/Y Titania, M/Y Axioma, M/Y Amaryllis
Mzi (Zee) . — Deckhand (South African)
Professional Background:
Mzi has always held the ocean close to his heart, having grown up along the coastlines of South Africa, Durban and Cape Town. His passion for water sports came from a young age, being a swimmer and sportsmen. After discovering he was not going to be the next Tiger Woods, he ventured on to university in Cape Town. Following university, Mzi decided he wanted to follow his brothers footsteps and leap into the yachting industry. Having a strong service background and a passion for the water, he aims to bring both energy and warmth to all guests in every aspect, making every trip the best one yet.
Favourite Charter Destination: Green Island, Antigua
Hobbies: Golf, Padel Tennis , Swimming, Water sports
Previous Yachts: M/Y Arkadia – M/Y Odessa – M/Y Home – M/Y Lady Michelle – M/Y Babas
Rebecca Jones — Chief steward/ess (Australian)
Professional Background:
Bec grew up in the Yarra Valley, a world renowned wine region on the edge of the city of Melbourne, Australia. Whilst studying a bachelors degree in Media and Communications, she worked across the many wineries and restaurants in the Yarra Valley developing a passion for both wine and high end service. Whilst travelling Europe in 2017, the yachting world caught her attention and in the seven years since she hasn't looked back. In this time Bec has cruised
extensively through the Mediterranean as well as extensively up and down the East Coast of Australia and some lesser explored destinations such as the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea.
Favourite Charter Destination: Pacific
Favourite Yachting Experience: Tying up to palm trees in the remote Solomon Islands.
Previous Yachts: M/Y Mischief, M/Y Eclipse, M/Y Blade
Mikael (Mike) . — Deckhand (Swedish)
Born just outside Stockholm, Mikael spent his early childhood in the city before moving north. Growing up surrounded by Swedish wilderness sparked a lifelong love for the outdoors and taught him to navigate mountaintops by snowmobile in winter and by foot in summer.
Volleyball has always had Mikael’s heart, and at 15 he moved south to attend Sweden’s National Sports Academy. His maritime career began at 19 with Hurtigruten’s coastal cruises in Norway, where he spent three years helping create unforgettable experiences
along the Norwegian coastline. Having long believed he was destined for a career in medicine, Mikael enrolled at Uppsala University to attend med school. After two years, he realised that although he admired the science, he much preferred salty air to sterile rooms and decided life was better on deck than in a lab coat.
Favourite Charter Destination: Norway
Hobbies: Volleyball, hiking & travelling
Previous Yachts: M/Y Jas
Thomas . — Deckhand (British)
Tom is a dedicated and skilled deckhand with over five seasons of experience on luxury yachts ranging from 55m to 90m, cruising all over the world. Demonstrates proven expertise in deck operations, team leadership, and safety protocols, supported by a Yachtmaster Offshore certification. Well-versed in large tender handling, always committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences while maintaining vessel safety.
After studying film and graduating from university, Tom spent three years in the film industry, gaining valuable skills behind the camera and in fast-paced, large-scale environments. Drawn to the yachting world by its sense of adventure and breath taking settings, he enjoys meeting incredible people along the way. Eager to bring his talents into a dynamic team, he’s focused on growing his career in yacht operations and making a positive impact on every voyage.
Favourite Charter Destination: Europe
Hobbies: Snowboarding, hiking, American football, film, videography & photography
Previous Yachts: M/Y Lionheart, M/Y Faith, M/Y Amigos, M/Y Deep Breath
Valeriia (Val) . — Chief steward/ess (Ukrainian)
Professional Background:
Val grew up in the city life of Odessa, Ukraine. She has always had an incredible passion for horses throughout her life, and growing up she competed as a show jumper representing her state in numerous competitions. After completing her degree in Psychology & Communications, she took on a hospitality role within yachting where she has fuelled her creativity and enthusiasm greatly. The last 12 years has allowed her to explore the Bahamas, Caribbean, East, West and South Coast of the United States extensively, South Pacific, Seychelles, Mexico, French Polynesia, Mediterranean on yachts.
When Val manages some free time, she enjoys running, staying fit and exploring new places. She is fluent in English and hopes that you make incredible memories onboard.
Favourite Charter Destination: Seychelles
Favourite Yachting Experience: Snorkelling in Pablo Escobar’s plane and feeding the swimming pigs in the Bahamas
Previous Yachts: M/Y Yas – M/Y Stella Maris – M/Y Wheels
Emelie (Em) — Stewardess (Swedish)
Professional Background:
Emelie is originally from Stockholm, Sweden, and brings a background in both
hospitality and brand content. Prior to entering the yachting industry, she worked as a Brand Content Manager, where she developed a strong eye for detail, storytelling, and guest-focused experiences. After completing her university studies, Emelie chose to pursue a career in yachting and
has loved it ever since. Her experience combines creativity with a natural sense of service, allowing her to create memorable and well-curated onboard experiences. Emelie is an active and social individual who enjoys travelling and discovering new destinations. She has a passion for photography and a keen interest in creating atmosphere, whether through thoughtful details or crafting the perfect cocktail for guests to enjoy.
Favourite Charter Destination: Amalfi Coast
Hobbies: Hiking, Fashion, shopping, photography, food
Previous Yachts: M/Y iRock
Zoe . — Stewardess (French)
Professional Background:
Zoe was born in Saint Martin and spent her childhood moving between Malta and Mallorca. Having grown up on islands, she has always been surrounded by the ocean, developing a natural connection to life at sea.
This lifelong proximity to the water inspired her to pursue a career in yachting. At 18, after completing her A Levels, Zoe took her first steps into the industry and is now at the beginning of her professional journey.
She is excited by the unique lifestyle yachting offers, combining travel with the
opportunity to connect with people from diverse and culturally rich backgrounds. Zoe looks forward to growing within the industry while creating meaningful experiences along the way.
Favourite Charter Destination: Italy
Hobbies: Drawing/painting, reading & rollerblading
Previous Yachts: M/Y Coral Ocean
Lehan . — Second Officer (South African)
Professional Background:
Growing up in South Africa, where he spent weekends and holidays at the beach engaged in water sports and outdoor activities. After 5 years at University, completing his Business management and Law degree and Honors in Entrepreneurial and Business Management, Lehan was intrigued with what the yachting industry had to offer. With 4 years yachting experience Lehan is enthusiastic with a positive and uplifting attitude, he enjoys meeting new people from different countries and the friendships that yachting provides while doing what he loves while working on the water and seeing new places and destinations throughout the year.
Favourite Charter Destination: Croatia
Hobbies: All water sports
Previous Yachts: M/Y Kemosable – M/Y Never Enough – M/Y Lucky Lady
Jake . — First Officer (United Kingdom)
Position: Chief Officer
Rotation: 2:2
Nationality: United Kingdom
Born: United Kingdom
Languages: English
Professional Background:
Jake was born in the picturesque English town of Stratford upon Avon. Although
landlocked, Jake’s passion for the the sea came from sailing holidays and being a member of the sea cadets as a child. Jake’s family has a long history of working at sea, with the most recent being his uncle working his whole naval career on the Royal Yacht Britannia. Jake started his yachting career at the tender age of 18 and has since built a career on Motor Yachts ranging from 48m - 92m. He has been lucky enough to travel the world extensively during this time and has now logged over 250,000 nautical miles. Jake looks forward to providing guests onboard Coral Ocean with a safe, fun and memorable experience whilst using his knowledge of cruising grounds to ensure that all
guests make the best possible memories onboard.
Favourite Charter Destination: Panama & Costa Rica
Hobbies: Golf, diving & snowboarding
Previous Yachts: M/Y Starburst IV, M/Y Amaral, M/Y Amaryllis, M/Y Aquarius
238’
Victor (Vicky) — Sous Chef (Brazilian)
Position: Sous Chef
Rotation: 2:2
Nationality: Brazilian
Born: Ceres, Goias
Languages: Portuguese, Spanish, English
Professional Background:
Victor was born and raised in Brazil, growing up in the countryside surrounded by nature, mountains, and farmland. From an early age, he developed a deep curiosity about the world and began learning English, which later opened the door to a life of travel and exploration. An avid explorer at heart, Victor’s connection to nature and his upbringing around farming naturally shaped his passion for food and fresh, high-quality ingredients. Inspired by his mother’s love for cooking, he decided to pursue a career as a professional
chef. After spending several years with Coral, Victor took a short break to explore Southeast Asia, further expanding his culinary perspective and inspiration. Now back onboard as Sous Chef, he brings both experience and renewed creativity, ready to impress and delight both guests and crew alike.
Favourite Charter Destination: The next one
Hobbies: Traveling, hiking, swimming in waterfalls & going to the beach!
Previous Yachts: M/Y Satori, S/Y Enterprise, M/Y Mylin IV
Frederik F — Second Officer (South African)
Professional Background:
Frik was born in Cape Town and grew up on a farm on the West Coast of South Africa. He developed a passion for surfing at a young age and has always felt a deep connection to the ocean. During his high school years, he worked as a lifeguard for three years, further fueling his love for the sea. Over the past seven years, he has gained extensive experience working on a range of charter yachts, varying from 55 to 89 meters in length. Starting as a deckhand, he worked his way up through the ranks to become a highly qualified and experienced Second Officer. Frik is excited to join the Coral Ocean team and is eager to contribute to ensuring that guests have a truly memorable experience from the moment they arrive.
Favourite Charter Destination: Grenada
Hobbies: Surfing, Diving , Wake surfing, Rugby
Previous Yachts: M/Y Cloud – 9 M/Y Here Comes the Sun – M/Y Loiness V – M/Y Driftwood.
Yasmin . — Stewardess (Swedish)
Professional Background:
Yasmin was born and raised in Stockholm, Sweden. She began her career at a top tier law firm in Stockholm as a conference hostess and legal assistant, where she developed strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a professional, client focused approach. She later gained international experience in Monaco working for a private family as a governess and personal assistant, supporting daily routines and assisting in a fast-paced, high-standard environment. Yasmin has since transitioned into yachting, where she enjoys working as part of a team and maintaining a high level of service on board. She is reliable, adaptable, and brings a positive attitude, with a strong willingness to learn and grow within the industry.
Favourite Charter Destination: Porto Cervo
Hobbies: Traveling, fitness, football & exploring new restaurants
Previous Yachts: M/Y Axioma
Ryan . — Bosun (South African)
Professional Background:
Ryan was born in Durban, South Africa and comes from a professional cycling background where he has lived and raced all over the world. He has always loved the outdoors and getting involved in all types sports and adrenaline filled activities. Ryan has worked on motors yachts ranging from 50m - 90m. He is always willing to help and provide guests with a great experience onboard Coral Ocean.
Favourite Charter Destination: Caribbean
Hobbies: Exercising, Surfing, Cycling, Motorbikes & Exploring new places
Previous Yachts: M/Y Highlander – M/Y Fountain Head
Scott . — Chief engineer (British)
Professional Background:
Scott was born in Edinburgh, Scotland and has worked at sea ever since graduation, on various ships from some of the worlds largest tankers to cruise liners and fast ferries and has spent the last 16 years working on luxury yachts. Scott relishes technical challenges and always strives to provide the most seamless service, constantly adapting to encompass changing technologies in the industry. Outside of the engineering department he is a keen diver holding both Padi rescue diver and recreational rebreather certification and is also a passionate astrophotographer, enjoying spending late nights capturing the wonders of the cosmos.
Favourite Charter Destination: Palau
Favourite Yachting Experience: Trekking through lava caves in Tahiti
Previous Yachts: M/Y Sussurro – M/Y Pacific
Nick . — Head Chef (Italian)
Professional Background:
Nick was born in Acuto a small village outside Rome in Italy.
While travelling the world and discovering new flavours to add to his cooking style, Nick collected experiences in various countries of Europe, Asia and Oceania. After focusing on classical French and Italian cooking techniques early in his career, he then directed his interests towards other cuisines that captured his attention; new Nordic, Australian, Maori/New Zealander.
He truly enjoys bringing Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking to the table as these are flavours he grew up with although the cuisine which draws his biggest passion are undoubtedly Japanese and Asian with his Italian twist.
Nick has worked on a variety of yachts ranging 60m to 95m as Head Chef and is now looking forward to getting the most out of Coral Ocean and providing memorable experiences for the guest who have the pleasure to cruise with her.
Favourite Charter Destination: Seychelles & Caribbean
Hobbies: Eating out, hiking & kick boxing
Previous Yachts: M/Y Trident, M/Y Lauren L, M/Y Andiamo, M/Y Ventum Maris
Josefine (Josie) — Stewardess (Swedish)
Professional Background:
Josefine, also known as Josie, is 29 years old and originally from Stockholm, Sweden. Since finishing school, she has had a strong passion for travel and exploring the world. She began her journey backpacking through Asia, later spending time living and working in London, and went on to travel extensively in her previous role as a flight stewardess for a private Swedish family.
Josie entered the yachting industry in 2019, starting in the Mediterranean during the summer season. Since then, she has gained experience across a range of vessels, from 35m to 140m, while continuing to explore destinations around the world. She has a natural passion for service and food, combined with a warm and social personality. In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with friends and family whenever she can. Josie is now very excited to begin this new chapter onboard Coral Ocean.
Favourite Charter Destination: Sardinia
Hobbies: Traveling, diving & hiking
Previous Yachts: M/Y Irock, M/Y Bold, M/Y Big Eagle, M/Y Ramble on Rose, M/Y Rising Sun
Tom Henshilwood — Captain (South African )
Position: Captain
Rotation: 2:2 (May - 19 June, 25 July to 30 September)
Nationality: South African
Born: Cape Town, South Africa
Languages: Fluent: English and Afrikaans
Professional Background:
Tom was born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa where he was active within the
dinghy and keelboat sailing clubs. After finishing High School he enlisted in the South
African Navy and was later commissioned as a Warfare Officer, completed a Bachelor of
Military Science Degree and served on various ships. Leaving the Navy at 25, he headed
overseas where he worked to fund various travels and adventures. Since 2001, Tom as
worked on both sailing and motor yachts ranging in size from 15m to 80m, the last eight
years as Captain. Many of the yachts have been expedition style with world-wide
cruising itineraries.
Tom is looking forward to the busy charter and owner program of Coral Ocean and
getting to know the Owner, Guests and her crew.
Favourite Charter Destination: Antarctica
Hobbies: Running, surfing, sailing, photography, family
Previous Yachts: M/Y Triple Seven, M/Y Titan, M/Y Albula, M/Y Global, M/Y Sherpa
Samantha (sammi) — Beautician (South African)
Professional Background:
Samantha grew up in sunny Durban, South Africa, where she competed as a professional swimmer and enjoyed activities such as lifesaving and bodyboarding. She holds a three year Spa Therapy diploma, with internationally recognised CIBTAC and CIDESCO qualifications. Following her studies, Samantha gained experience working in a number of prestigious
hotels abroad before transitioning into the superyacht industry in 2016. Since then, she has built a strong reputation for delivering exceptional service to high-profile guests, always maintaining the highest professional standards.
After returning to South Africa for a short break, she further developed her expertise within the beauty industry, specialising in medical aesthetics—enhancing both her management and client care skills.
Samantha is passionate about skin health, travel, and discovering new cuisines around the world. In her downtime, she enjoys indulging in spa experiences, often drawing inspiration to continually elevate the guest experience onboard.
Favourite Charter Destination: Croatia
Hobbies: Yoga, Hiking, Swimming, Cooking, Traveling, Fine dining
Previous Yachts: Vicky 73m - Pelorus 114m - Solandge 85m - Flying Fox 135m - Viva 94m - Quantum of Solace 73m
Lauren . — Stewardess (Australian)
Professional Background:
Lauren was born and raised in Sydney, Australia, where growing up by the beach sparked her love of the water. As a child she spent her weekends participating in nippers and surf lifesaving, going on to row surf boats and compete at a national level. After finishing school, Lauren completed a degree in Nutrition Science, but her passion for the ocean soon led her back to the water. She began her yachting career in Sydney in 2021 and has since gained experience on yachts ranging from 35m to 74m, cruising Australia, the South Pacific and the Mediterranean. Lauren is excited to be part of the team on Coral and looks forward to ensuring guests have a memorable and relaxing experience on board while she continues to embrace all the incredible adventures yachting has to offer.
Favourite Charter Destination: Solomon Islands
Hobbies: Snowboarding, hiking & water sports
Previous Yachts: M/Y Rascal, M/Y Mischief, M/Y New Secret, M/Y Rio
Nataley (Nat) — Stewardess (South African)
Professional Background:
Nataley was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, and spent part of her childhood in Cape Town. Growing up between vibrant city life and the ocean instilled in her both a natural connection to people and a deep appreciation for the sea. Before entering the yachting industry, Nataley qualified as a high school teacher, specialising in English, Geography, and History, and went on to complete her Honours degree. She is also a certified Hatha and Vinyasa yoga instructor, as well as a Certified Open Water diver—reflecting her passion for wellness, balance, and life on the water. Yachting allows Nataley to combine her love of travel, culture, and meaningful human connection. She is inspired by the opportunity to meet people from around the world and takes great pride in creating memorable and enriching experiences for guests onboard.
Favourite Charter Destination: Montenegro
Hobbies: Yoga, running, hiking & chess.
Previous Yachts: M/Y Noah, M/Y Edesia, M/Y Tribu
Sue . — Chef (British)
Sue is from the North of England, she started her career in a country house hotel in the Lake District. She quickly rose through the ranks until she was Head Chef, appearing in TV shows and managing a brigade of 8. Sue has many years of valuable and varied experiences with many achievements under her apron. She has travelled the world extensively, exclusively cooking for many unique UHNW individuals, such as Hollywood stars, tycoons, high profile business and sports personalities and Royalty, cooking for King Charles and Camilla on their Royal Caribbean Tour in 2008. Amongst her varied accolades, Sue became one of only 25 female Master Chefs of Great Britain at the age of 27. She enjoys taking inspiration from high quality restaurants to street food around the world. She loves to Surf in Costa Rica to balance out all the amazing food.
Favourite Charter Destination: South Pacific
Hobbies: Eating in amazing restaurants and surfing to work it off!
Previous Yachts: M/Y Seanna, M/Y Nympheas, M/Y Nahlin, M/Y Leander, M/Y Axioma, M/Y Eos, M/Y Amaryllis, M/Y Man of steel, M/Y Synthesis, M/Y Grace
Arata Tanaka — Chef (Japanese)
Favourite Yachting Experience: I have had an enriching journey in the culinary world, serving in various capacities such as a third chef on an oversized private yacht, a sous chef on a highly reputable charter boat, and a head chef on a 50m private yacht. Recently, I completed a rewarding five-year tenure as an estate chef in London, which came to a close following my employer's passing.
My educational background includes graduating from a chef program at Camosun College in Canada. Over nearly three decades in the food industry, I have cultivated diverse experiences across reputable bakeries, restaurants, and wineries. Additionally, spent a season engaged in commercial fishing off the coast of Alaska, where I caught salmon, tuna, and halibut.
Despite my extensive experience, I believe that there is always more to learn and explore. I am excited about the prospect of continuing my growth in this dynamic industry on Coral Ocean.
Hobbies: Motorcycle ride, traveling, reading books
Favourite Charter Destination: I enjoy destinations that offer beautiful natural
landscapes. Some of my favourite charter destinations include the British Virgin Islands, Sardinia and the Greek Islands.
Previous Yachts: M/Y Katara M/Y Mia Elise, M/Y Strangelove