CREW PROFILES
SHAUN LAURI
Captain
Nationality: South African
Shaun’s maritime journey commenced almost 15 years ago ago when he embarked on a career as a commercial fisherman along the rugged coastline of his beloved homeland, South Africa. Enduring the challenges of sailing through sub-Antarctic waters and navigating around sharks near the southern tip of Africa, Shaun gained first-hand experience and honed his skills in the demanding realm of the sea. His easy-going demeanour and infectious smile may belie his unwavering commitment to safety and his extensive knowledge of maritime operations.
In more recent years, Shaun has expanded his horizons by traversing the globe aboard some of the most prestigious yachts. His wealth of experience and insights enables him to guide your guests to the most enchanting dive spots in the Caribbean or the alluring hotspots dotting the Mediterranean coastline.
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Oceana 55m
Interests:
Watersports
Outdoor activities
Walking
Languages:
English
CLINTON HARKNESS
Captain
Nationality: Australian
Clinton re-joins the vessel after departing 7 years ago to complete his Officer of the Watch Studies. Clinton is originally from a small town in Victoria, Australia but has resided in Barcelona on and off for the last 3 years. With over a decade of experience in the yachting industry, Clinton has honed his skills and expertise and earned his Master’s Qualification along the way.
Clinton is an avid sports fan who enjoys watching all sports. Clinton takes particular enjoyment in racing Kyle Rooke for the title of “Fastest Man Alive” on Titania.
When Clinton is not onboard you can generally find him on the golf course or watching his favorite football team, Liverpool.
Clinton enjoys travelling and has travelled to over 50 countries in the world. During his spare time, he continues to study Spanish, with his Colombian fiancé always reminding him of the need to speak the language.
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Predator 72m
M/Y Titania 71m
M/Y Rahil 54m
M/Y Hermitage 68m
Interests:
Golf
Football
Tennis
Cricket
Snowboarding
Travelling
Languages:
English
Learning Spanish
Rory Carr
Chief Officer (rotational)
Nationality: British
Rory hails from the Isle of Wight and before yachting was a professional dinghy racer and coach and has competed at European and World Championships, as well as placing in some of the most gruelling Ocean races the world has to offer.
Rory lives with his wife in Australia, where they have a passion for adventure and travel. It’s not surprising then that he has cruised all over the world, including Alaska, South, Central and North America, Canada, Caribbean, Pacific, Indian and Med.
He loves nothing more than ensuring the safety and security of all guests and, most importantly, helping make memories of a lifetime. He has a variety of alter egos, including Jack Sparrow, Captain America, Merman, Willy Wonka and many more.
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Hurricane Run 54m
M/Y Amaryllis 78m
M/Y Itasca 55m
M/Y Ambition 57m
MY Omaha 50m
Interests:
Diving
Snowboarding
Languages:
English
Pascal Boutry
Chief Officer (rotational)
Nationality: South African
Pascal is from Cape Town, South Africa. He grew up next to the sea, surfing and fishing.
After leaving home to explore his roots in Europe and a lot of temporary employment, he stumbled upon Yachting as a means of exploring the world, 18 years on, he hasn’t looked back!
Pascal has sailed around to world and still enjoys all the adventures that the sea/ world has to offer, and being able to show all guests onboard these amazing places.
Pascal’s passions/hobbies are building computers, PC gaming, Golf, self-taught industrial designer, and his latest passion as an aspiring entrepreneur.
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Huntress 75m
M/Y Excellence 80m
Interests:
Travelling
Computers
Fishing
Languages:
English
Robbie Macgregor
Second Officer
Nationality: New Zealander
Second Officer Robbie Macgregor grew up on Herald Cove Vineyard, a humble family-owned and operated winery local to Auckland, New Zealand. After a successful rowing career gaining regional and national titles in eight, four and pair-maned boats, he completed his yachting basic training and departed New Zealand in search of a greater adventure.
Rob has spent the last 8 years at sea, crossing the equator in the Pacific Ocean for the first time in 2022. Working onboard extensive charter programs such as M/Y Ocean Club (49m), Rob has spent his time making local connections and keeping tabs on the best places to visit!
When Rob steps away from sailing, you’ll find him training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, photographing the surroundings, whether it be film or digital, catching the nearest surf swell or working on and riding motorbikes.
Previous Yachts:
M/Y MiMi Benetti 60m
M/Y Ocean Club 50m
M/Y Clarity 50m
Interests:
Digital & Film Photography
Videography
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Hiking
Languages:
English
Thomas Dyer
Head Chef (rotational)
Nationality: British
Born from a family of chefs, Thomas grew up cooking with his family in their home in Cyprus. Thomas turned this family tradition into a career and studied at Westminster in London. After successfully completing his culinary studies, Thomas travelled the world cooking for incredible restaurants in places such as Sydney, the United States and London. In London he loved working in the open-fire grill restaurant operated by the renowned restaurant group Ottolenghi.
He is passionate about fresh cooking packed with lots of flavour! His healthy focus translates to a love of cooking fresh vegetables. He is an expert in breadmaking and proclaims he can cook anything over a flame fire and he will!
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Fountainhead 87m
M/Y Arrow 75m
Interests:
Rowing
Kiteboarding
Rock Climbing
Languages:
English
David Perez
Head Chef (rotational)
Nationality: Spanish/Swiss
David is originally from Spain, but he was born in Basel – Switzerland. After working for 14 Years in restaurants with stations in Switzerland and international Resorts, he decided to start his own business with a company in the Private Cooking sector. Since then, he has worked for private families and superyachts around the world.
He also offers a catering service and provides chefs for restaurants and private clients. “Good food and happy guests”, is his daily motivation!
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Hermitage 68m
Interests:
Fine Dining
Travelling
Languages:
English
Spanish
German
Ted Hatcher
Sous Chef
Nationality: British
Ted is from Cornwall, a beautiful county in the southwest of England, where he spent much of his youth enjoying water activities like sailing, surfing, and various water sports. While he played rugby throughout school, he now prefers to watch the sport rather than play. After spending five months working in the French Alps, Ted discovered a passion for snowboarding, which fueled his love for travel. He often visits friends around the world, with recent trips to Canada, where he explored stunning landscapes, and Brazil, where he embraced the vibrant culture and beautiful beaches. Ted’s adventurous spirit drives him to seek new experiences and create lasting memories with friends.
He is passionate about fresh cooking packed with lots of flavour! His healthy focus translates to a love of cooking fresh vegetables. He is an expert in breadmaking and proclaims he can cook anything over a flame fire and he will!
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Queen Miri 93m
M/Y Nero 90m
M/Y Seven Seas 109m
Interests:
Food
Snowboarding
Water Sports
Travel
Fitness
Languages:
English
Jenna King
Chief Stewardess
Nationality: South African
Jenna grew up on the East Coast of South Africa. Straight out of High School, she worked in the hospitality industry at a couple of Country Clubs in the United States for three years. She then got an opportunity to work on a Cruise Ship where she found her love for the sea. After a year on Seabourn Cruises, she decided to give yachting a go.
She started as Third Stew on a 50m and worked her way up to Chief Stew in 5 years on the same boat. She is always looking for a challenge and loves to learn and grow within the industry. In her spare time, Jenna loves to scuba dive. She did her advanced diving course in Vanuatu in the South Pacific Ocean. She also loves to travel and go on adventures, she likes hiking, but most importantly she loves spending time with her friends and family.
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Onyx 27m
M/Y Deniki 53m
M/Y Kinship 50m
Interests:
Diving
Hiking
Being Outdoors
Languages:
English
Bethany Donaldson
Chief Stewardess (rotational)
Nationality: New Zealander
Beth grew up on the beautiful east coast of New Zealand. After completing her beauty diploma in 2014, she embraced new adventures in yachting.
Her passion for hospitality led Beth to transition from beauty stewardess to service stewardess. Over the last ten years, she has focussed on creating unforgettable guest experiences on yachts. Previously working on Titania before, Beth is excited to re-join as Chief Stewardess.
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Joy 70m
M/Y Firebird 70m
M/Y Rockit 60m
M/Y Titania 73m
M/Y Luna 115m
M/Y Freedom 70m
Interests:
Skiing
Travelling
Cooking
Running
Languages:
English
Isabell Ruehle
Chief Stewardess (rotational)
Nationality: German
Isabell grew up in Germany where she did her apprenticeship in the hotel business. She then moved to Switzerland where she also worked in gastronomy and was offered the opportunity to join the yachting industry on a yacht in Croatia.
On her previous vessel, which was a very busy back-to-back charter yacht, she stayed on for nearly three years and got promoted from 2nd Stewardess to Chief Stewardess after her first season on board. This is when she also fell in love with creating beautiful tablescapes and theme nights for the guests which probably is one of her biggest passions. Isabell loves a good challenge and works on her personal growth by attending training and courses and then passing on her knowledge to her Interior team on board.
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Seven Sins 52m
M/Y Run Away 37m
M/Y Neninka 67m
M/Y SH Magic 40m
M/Y Hayama 60m
Interests:
Fitness & Nutrition
Travelling
Watersports
Languages:
German
English
Caitlin Nugent
Second Stewardess
Nationality: New Zealand / British
Caitlin grew up in New Zealand after moving from a small town outside London at age eight, where her love for the ocean and travel began. She holds a Bachelor of Communications in Public Relations and is also a qualified makeup artist.
She entered yachting in 2018 in Antibes, landing her first role as Third Stewardess on a 50m dual-season charter yacht. After a break in 2021 to help grow a clothing startup’s social media from 30K to over a million followers, she returned to yachting in 2022 aboard a 60m vessel, completing trans-ocean crossings and rising to Chief Stewardess.
Off the boat, Caitlin enjoys reading in the sun, discovering local coffee spots, and vintage shopping. She’s excited to join Titania for her first season onboard.
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Ocean Club – 50m
M/Y MiMi (La Blanca) – 60m
Interests:
Creative Writing/Poetry
Running
Vintage Curation
Road trips
Content Creation
Making memories with family,
friends and her dog.
Languages:
English
Ellen Kesselmark
Head of Housekeeping
Nationality: Swedish
Ellen grew up in Stockholm, Sweden, where her love for the outdoors began early, particularly through horseback riding. She enjoys soaking up the sun and being by the sea, finding peace in nature. During the winter, Ellen is often skiing, and when it’s time to unwind, she turns to a good book. For the past few years, she has worked as a stewardess on yachts, travelling through the Maldives, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. Whether by the coast or on the slopes, Ellen embraces both adventure and quiet moments in equal measure.
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Madsummer 95m
M/Y Bold 85m
M/Y Arbema 72m
Interests:
Horse Riding
Travelling
Beauty
Languages:
English
Swedish
Claudia Hennop
Head of Housekeeping
Nationality: South African
Born and raised in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, Claudia’s childhood was shaped by her love for horse riding, a passion that saw her competing at both regional and national levels from a tender age. Fuelled by her deep-seated wanderlust and affinity for the sea, she ventured to the South of France to embark on a career aboard yachts. Her thirst for exploration eventually led her to the Middle East, where she honed her skills while collaborating closely with prominent figures, gaining invaluable insights into delivering top-tier service and fostering meaningful guest interactions. Known for her unwavering commitment to excellence, Claudia takes immense pride in her work, infusing every endeavour with her vibrant and engaging personality, making her a joy to be around.
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Ocean Bird 55m
Interests:
Travelling
Running
Catching the Sun
Languages:
English
Afrikaans
Shannon Lowe
Stewardess / Purser
Nationality: British
Originally from Nottingham, England, she graduated in accounting and began a career in finance before transitioning into the yachting industry. Combining her finance background with a love for the ocean and luxury hospitality, she found her ideal role onboard.
Having also worked as a cocktail bartender, she enjoys creating cocktails for guests and thrives on organising themed nights that bring everyone together for unforgettable experiences. Outside of work, she enjoys travelling to surf breaks around the world to chase the best swells.
Previous Yachts:
MY Silver Dream 43m
MY Jester 69m
MY Infinite Jest 73m
Interests:
Surfing
Skateboarding
Snowboarding
Dress Making
Aerial Silks
Languages:
English
Sophie Connolly
Stewardess
Nationality: British
Sophie was born in London and grew up in the New Forest. Having recently graduated from Oxford Brookes University with a degree in business and marketing management, Sophie’s love for travel and hospitality has led her to yachting.
Over the past few years, Sophie has worked at several events around the UK including Wimbledon and Royal Ascot. Outside of work, she lives going on long walks, seeing new places and spending time with friends and family.
Previous Yachts:
Titania is Sophie’s first yacht
Interests:
Travelling
Running
Catching the Sun
Languages:
English
Rebecca Krowitz
Stewardess
Nationality: South African
Rebecca was raised on a small wine farm in Oudshoorn, South Africa, where her love for good food, hospitality and the surrounding nature was nurtured from a young age. Pursuing her passion for wellness and beauty, she studied Somatology and became a qualified and experienced masseuse and skin care aesthetician. Rebecca’s career took her to a prestigious 5-star lodge in a game reserve, where she delighted guests with exceptional spa and hospitality services, as well as deepening her appreciation for nature. Continuing her professional journey, Rebecca advanced her expertise by collaborating with doctors to provide skincare treatments of the highest quality. Her lifelong love for the outdoors and adventure, coupled with her dedication to great service led her to yachting and makes her able to offer guests an unforgettable experience.
Previous Yachts:
Titania is Rebecca’s first yacht
Interests:
Wildlife
Nature
Trying different cuisines
Languages:
English
Afrikaans
Astyn Donald
Stewardess (Masseuse/Beautician)
Nationality: Australian
Astyn is from the Gold Coast, Australia, with a background in management, sales, hospitality, and massage therapy. Introduced to the yachting industry by a close friend, she saw it as the perfect opportunity to combine her skills with international travel and a love for the ocean.
Motivated by adventure and a desire for personal growth, Astyn is excited to begin her yachting journey. With a passion for massage, she looks forward to providing exceptional care to guests aboard Titania.
In her spare time, she enjoys surfing, Pilates, and staying active. Her long-term goal is to take on a leadership role within the interior and spa team while building a rewarding career at sea.
Previous Yachts:
Titania is Astyn’s first yacht
Interests:
Surfing
Pilates
Keeping active
Languages:
English
Nicola King
Stewardess (Masseuse/Beautician)
Nationality: South African
Hailing from a small town in South Africa, she was raised with a strong work ethic and a drive to pursue her dreams. With a background in beauty therapy and experience running her own salon, she joined yachting to combine her passion for wellness with a love of travel and adventure.
Starting out as a sole stewardess, she quickly adapted by teaching herself the role, supported by encouraging leaders along the way. Friendly, hardworking, and eager to grow, she’s excited to continue developing her skills and contributing positively to any team she joins.
Previous Yachts:
MY Daytona 25m
MY Pippin Took 22m
Interests:
Hiking
Travelling
Cooking
Fitness
Water sports
Beauty Treatments
Wellness and Self-care
Languages:
English
Afrikaans
Kyle Rooke
Chief Engineer (rotational)
Nationality: British
Kyle embarked on his yachting journey in 2009, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his background in commercial boats and cruise liners. With his energetic and enthusiastic nature, Kyle is known among the crew as the ‘Fastest Man Alive’ and has earned this title through his remarkable speed and agility in the Titania Olympics.
Having explored the vast oceans of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian, Kyle has traversed international waters and set foot in over 50 countries. His extensive travels have broadened his horizons and given him a deep appreciation for different cultures and experiences.
In his downtime, Kyle is an avid sports enthusiast, finding joy in engaging in activities like football, rugby, and tennis. His competitive spirit drives him to excel and fuels his passion for teamwork and camaraderie.
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Eclipse 167m
M/Y Baton Rouge 63m
Interests:
Football
Reading
Cooking
Travelling
Languages:
English
KYLE SMITH
Chief Engineer (rotational)
Nationality: South African
His upbringing in Durban instilled in him a deep love for the outdoors, and he finds great joy in activities such as camping in the renowned Game Parks of South Africa and cycling through scenic landscapes.
Being an ardent sports fan, Kyle not only enjoys watching but also actively participates in both rugby and football. He embraces the spirit of competition and relishes the camaraderie that comes with team sports. Whether he’s on the field or cheering from the sidelines, sports hold a special place in his heart.
In addition to his passion for the great outdoors and sports, Kyle possesses a knack for automotive endeavours. When he’s back home, he spends time working on his Land Rover, showcasing his mechanical skills and nurturing his passion for automobiles.
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Pheonix II 90m
M/Y Sky 50m
Interests:
Watching rugby
Travelling
Scuba diving
Watersports
Cycling
Languages:
English
Taylor Longworth
Second Engineer (rotational)
Nationality: British
Originally from Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, he began his maritime career straight out of school by enrolling in a commercial merchant navy cadetship, training to become an engineer. After obtaining his Engineering Officer of the Watch ticket, he worked aboard oceanographic research vessels and nuclear fuel carriers. His transition into the yachting industry came through a former colleague, and over the past three years, he has served on yachts exceeding 130 metres in length. Now seeking a fresh challenge, he is aiming to join a busy charter vessel to continue accumulating sea time towards his Chief Engineer Unlimited ticket and to further develop his skills as an engineer.
In his free time, he enjoys going to the gym, walking, training in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and playing video games.
Previous Yachts:
MY Solaris 140m
Interests:
Combat Sports
Football
Reading
Gaming
Languages:
English
BRENDAN HANNIGAN
Second Engineer (rotational)
Nationality: Irish
Brendan hails from Cork, Ireland, but currently resides in Retford, UK, alongside his son. His professional journey commenced aboard cruise ships, primarily aboard the illustrious Queen Mary 2. Although he briefly ventured into temporary yacht work in the past, his position on TITANIA marks his inaugural permanent role within the yacht industry. When he returns home, Brendan relishes spending quality time engaging in activities such as playing with his son and frequenting the gym.
Previous Yachts:
Queen Mary 2
Interests:
Gym
Languages:
English
MICHAEL WARDELL
Third Engineer
Nationality: New Zealander
Michael, originally from Auckland, New Zealand, has embraced the cosmopolitan lifestyle of London for the past six years, with intermittent periods of residence in the city. Prior to embarking on a career in yachting, he dedicated over a decade to the electrical industry, honing his skills and gaining valuable expertise. However, driven by a desire for change and new adventures, Michael decided to redirect his path and delve into the captivating world of yachting, a decision he wholeheartedly enjoys and feels passionate about.
While his responsibilities primarily lie in the engine room, Michael’s love for sports remains unwavering. During his leisure time, he eagerly keeps up with the latest sporting events, immersing himself in the excitement and camaraderie that sports bring.
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Polar Star 63m
Interests:
Golf
Fishing
Hunting
Diving
Fitness
Drawing
Painting
Languages:
English
Harry Stead
Bosun
Nationality: British
Harry Stead grew up on the island of Jersey, where he developed a deep passion for the sea. After spending a few years working in finance, he decided to pursue a career in yachting, an industry he discovered during his travels, driven by his enduring love for the ocean.
In his spare time, Harry enjoys travelling, fishing, paddleboarding, football, and golf. He is always eager to connect with others and embrace new adventures.
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Soundwave 63m
M/Y Stella Maris (Temp) 72m
M/Y Parillion 48m
M/Y Loyalty 50m
M/Y Olindia 26m
Interests:
Fishing
Skiing
Football
Squash & Paddle
Traveling
Golf
Languages:
English
Harry Strong
Deckhand
Nationality: British
Harry is from Southampton, in the south of England. Upon finishing college, he opened his own removals and second-hand furniture business, which he ran in between travelling to different countries around the world.
He has since been in yachting for 2 years now, which has further enhanced his passion for travelling and experiencing different cultures. In his free-time he likes to play tennis, go to the gym and go on hikes.
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Predator 73m
M/Y SKAT 71m
Interests:
Hiking
Travelling
Tennis
Languages:
English
Luke Blackshaw
Deckhand
Nationality: Australian/British
Luke is a passionate water sports enthusiast with a love for adventure and the open seas. Originally from the UK, he moved to Australia as a child and discovered his true calling in teaching kids how to master various water sports. This experience led Luke to the world of yachting, where he found the perfect blend of his skills and passions. When not in the water, he enjoys taking pictures with his drone, as well as keeping fit and training in MMA. Get ready to learn with Luke and embark on unforgettable aquatic adventures!
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Omaha 50m
Interests:
Drone Photography
Efoiling
Fitness & MMA
Languages:
English
Jack Bromwich
Deckhand
Nationality: British
Jack grew up in the Midlands of the UK, where he spent his holidays on or near the water. After studying Marine Biology at university, he decided to pursue his passion for the sea by working on yachts, a career he has been dedicated to for the past few years. In his free time, Jack enjoys getting involved in sports and has recently taken up kiteboarding. In addition to his experience in the Mediterranean and Caribbean, Jack hopes to explore the Galápagos Islands one day to experience its unique marine life.
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Predator 73m
M/Y Halo 57m
Interests:
Fishing
Rugby, Tennis & Squash
Hiking & Mountain Biking
Languages:
English
Dylan Lewis
Deckhand
Nationality: British
Dylan is from the UK, but having grown up on the Costa del Sol, Spain means he has always had an affinity for the sea and anything adventurous. He enjoys keeping himself fit and healthy in order to make the most of any opportunity that he may come across.
Dylan previously worked in the yachting industry before switching to a different role on the ocean and joining the British Royal Marines. He has since returned to yachting to continue his career in seafaring, and make the most of working in some amazing places around the world.
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Hermitage 68m
M/Y Vicky 59m
M/Y That’s Amore 42m
Interests:
Skiing
Hiking
Boxing
Languages:
English
Spanish
Luke Castle
Deckhand / Carpenter
Nationality: British
Luke is originally from Manchester but has spent the last few years living in Anglesey, Wales. He likes living close to the mountains and coast as it allows him to enjoy all of his hobbies; Rock climbing, hiking and trail running as well as spending days out on the ocean sailing, fishing and paddleboarding.
Previous Yachts:
Titania is Luke’s first yacht
Interests:
Hiking
Running
Muay-thai
Sailing
Climbing
Languages:
English
