Hugh was born in Zimbabwe and spent most of his early years in Johannesburg, South Africa, before moving to England at the age of 16. Since then, he has been based in Europe, embracing opportunities that have taken him around the globe.
A naturally curious and hands-on individual, Hugh explored a variety of industries before discovering his true passion—engineering. From a young age, he was fascinated by how things work, often dismantling radios and bicycles just to put them back together. That same inquisitive nature and mechanical intuition have served him well throughout his yachting career.
With over 13 years in the yachting industry, Hugh brings a wealth of experience and calm confidence to every situation. Unflappable and highly skilled, he's just as capable on deck as he is in the engine room—and rumour has it, he even knows how to deliver a great turndown service! Outside of work, Hugh’s adventurous spirit thrives.
A certified kitesurfing instructor, he’s always chasing the wind in a turquoise lagoon or exploring new terrain on his motorcycle or mountain bike. Tahiti promises to be the perfect playground for his love of exploration and adrenaline.
Hugh .
Chief engineer
Born and raised in Northern NSW, Krista’s culinary journey began early, driven by a deep passion for food, travel, and adventure. At 19, she moved to Europe to pursue her career, diving headfirst into the rich and diverse culinary traditions of the world, which led her to a long rewarding career in yachting that has taken her to some of the world’s most desirable destinations.
Over the years, Krista has spent time in many different countries, honing her craft in Michelin-star restaurants, private UHNW households & luxurious ski destinations.
Krista spent seven years as co-owner and head chef of COAST in Hervey Bay, a celebrated restaurant awarded a hat in the Good Food Guide. There she built a loyal following with her refined, produce driven menu’s and a focus on elegant yet approachable dining.
Krista blends her love of food, cooking and international techniques to execute the most delicious dishes.
Now, based in the UK, Krista will be spending time with family, fitness, hiking, traveling and discovering the best places to dine.
Krista .
Chef
Captain Brett hails from the sunny shores of Gold Coast, Australia. With its golden sand beaches, world class surf and winding waterways, there was no doubt that Brett would master all water sports and eventually become the captain he is today.
As a natural leader he excelled as a sailing, waterskiing and wakeboarding instructor. This lead to him becoming a water sports manager at a 5-star hotel in the Whitsundays on the Great Barrier Reef. As his love for the water progressed so did his interest in boats which lead to him becoming a super yacht captain. He now has over 28 years of experience working on 30 – 80 meter yachts all over the world.
Brett joined Big Sky in the beautiful South Pacific. The amazing waters and picturesque cruising enables him to continue his quest of making guests’ holiday dreams become a reality.
When he is not aboard Big Sky, Brett returns home to his family in the hinterland region of the Gold Coast, to spend time with his young family, going boating on the same waters he grew up on, walking the golden beaches, and making sandcastles with his boys. He loves adventure novels, vintage and muscle cars and the simplicity of cutting the grass paddocks on his ride on mower.
Brett Woodford
Captain
Daniele was born in Milan, Italy, and pursued a degree in Naval & Nautical Design at the University of Genoa. Aspiring to be a Yacht Designer, he soon realized he preferred life at sea over a traditional office. After a decade in the yachting industry, he has gained experience on motor yachts from 35m to 62m, cruising the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Northeast USA. Recently completing his Master 500GT, he aims to become a reliable First Officer and eventually a Captain.
Outside of work, Daniele enjoys running, swimming, trekking, and climbing. He also has a keen interest in art, design, Ayurveda, and Permaculture. Proudly calling M/Y Big Sky his home, he looks forward to welcoming guests aboard.
Daniele Russo
First Officer
Laurence is a seasoned Bosun on Big Sky Yacht, bringing a wealth of experience from both the water and land. A former rugby player, he is known for his strong teamwork, leadership, and commitment—qualities honed on the field and carried into his yachting career. With a background in snowboarding, surfing, and a passion for water sports, he has developed an exceptional understanding of marine environments, and the skills required to maintain a luxury vessel.
Before yachting, Laurence worked as a surf instructor in the South of England for several years, sharing his love for the ocean with others. He also spent time working in high-end ski chalets, delivering top-tier service and honing his guest-focused approach. His technical skills extend to building foiling moth boats, an experience that deepened his understanding of performance vessels and their intricate design. Onboard, Laurence combines his diverse expertise to oversee the maintenance, safety, and operations of the yacht, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for guests and crew alike.
Laurence Smith
Bosun
Hugo is an enthusiastic and humorous individual who brings boundless energy to every adventure. A competitive swimmer and surf lifesaver hailing from the sunny Gold Coast, he thrives on excitement and loves to share his passion for water sports.
With a curious mind and a love for learning, Hugo is outgoing and social, always ready to make friends and create unforgettable experiences. If you're looking to learn some new tricks on the jet ski or go on an adrenaline filled adventure then Hugo is the man to ask.
He takes pride in his work and is dedicated to making every moment memorable for those around him. But his true skill is bringing laughter and fun onboard Big Sky. So, if you need a laugh, you know who to look for.
Hugo Vitiello
Deckhand
Raised in northern New South Wales, Beth's love and passion for the ocean grew during her early years participating in surf-life-saving activities. Winning the State Iron Woman Competition for three consecutive years propelled her to pursue a life closely connected to the sea.
With prior experience in diverse maritime roles such as shark-lining and spanner crabbing, Beth has seamlessly transitioned her skills to excel in the yachting industry. Her versatility shines through as she navigates between stewardess duties within the vessel's interior and tasks on the deck.
Beth has been part of the crew on M/Y Big Sky since late 2023 and looks forward to further refining her skills during the upcoming season in French Polynesia.
Beth is highly regarded within the Big Sky Crew for her cheerful, can-do attitude. She is dedicated to making sure her guests feel comfortable, welcome, and above all, happy.
During her free time, you'll find her underwater diving and snorkeling or above the water fishing, swimming, and soaking up the sunshine.
Beth Van Der Driest
Deckhand
Sam grew up in Cape Town, South Africa, where she developed a deep love for the ocean and nature. She moved to New Zealand for school and university, pursuing her passion for business and economics.
After completing her degree in Milan, Italy, Sam put her natural talent for building relationships to work, launching a career that has taken her across the globe. She began at a successful startup in Cape Town, spent four years working in the charter yacht industry in the Mediterranean, and most recently spent two years in London, working in luxury real estate and running her own boutique dinner party club—an initiative that helped young women new to the city build meaningful friendships.
Despite her success on land, Sam’s love for the ocean, adventure, and sunshine has drawn her back to yachting, where she is thrilled to be continuing her mission of creating unforgettable experiences for guests.
In her spare time, you’ll likely find Sam reading a non-fiction book on a beautiful beach, hiking, waterskiing, or planning the next exotic adventure for her friends.
Samantha Swain
Stewardess
Jessie grew up in a coastal town in South Australia, where her love for the ocean was shaped by days spent fishing, camping, paddle boarding, and exploring the wild beauty of the Great Australian Bight.
After travelling up and down the east coast of Australia, Jessie settled in the coastal haven of Byron Bay before setting off on her yachting journey, beginning in the breath taking waters of Sardinia Italy.
With years of experience in hairdressing, high end hospitality, and international private service, Jessie has discovered her true passion in the world of yachting.
Outside of work, Jessie is often found exploring nature, swimming in beautiful oceans, or soaking up live music wherever she goes. You can count on Jessie to bring an adventurous spirit and bubbly personality to your trip.
Jessica Allen
Stewardess
Christine grew up in the picturesque east coast of Australia, where her love for the ocean developed from a young age. Growing up in a lively household surrounded by brothers, she developed a spirited and adventurous nature.
With a background as a flight attendant, Christine refined her skills in customer service and hospitality before transitioning into the yachting industry. Her passion for the service industry shines through in every aspect of her work, where she strives to create memorable experiences for all guests.
In her free time, Christine embraces an active lifestyle, indulging in yoga, Pilates and running. She finds joy in exploring the underwater world through diving and enjoys the thrill of fishing. She loves to unwind with a good book, or expressing her creativity and passion in the kitchen.
Christine's vibrant personality, combined with her dedication to service and love for adventure, means you are in good hands for your charter on Big Sky.
Christine Harris
Chief steward/ess