Juan's origin traces back to Harare, Zimbabwe, where he spent his early years immersed in the captivating environment of a lion park. Assisting his parents in nurturing lion cubs and engaging with the majestic adult lions provided him with unique experiences. However, due to political circumstances, Juan and his family relocated to Zambia, where he transitioned to life on a farm.

At school Juan discovered his passion for rugby, eventually participating in a three-month tour in England. Excelling in his A Levels, Juan pursued further education in Business Management at a reputable institution in Johannesburg, South Africa, achieving distinctions in his studies.

Despite his academic success, Juan realized that the corporate world wasn't his calling. Driven by his desire for adventure, he set his sights on a career at sea. With unwavering determination, Juan is charting his course towards his ambitions. Currently holding his OOW, his next objective is to gain more sea time and broaden his expertise, ultimately aiming to ascend to the position of Captain.

Divan was raised amidst the breathtaking landscapes of a Safari reserve in South Africa, where his profound connection with wildlife, the ocean, water sports, and fishing blossomed, ultimately steering him towards a career in yachting. Fond memories of his formative years often involve adventurous
outings with his father, whether casting lines offshore or soaring through the skies.

His academic journey led him to pursue a postgraduate degree in marketing at the University of the Free State, all the while honing his athletic prowess on the rugby field at a professional level. These experiences instilled in him invaluable lessons in teamwork and discipline; attributes that shine through in his role as a bosun.

With an infectious zest for life, Divan is a beacon of positivity, infusing the crew with boundless energy and lifting morale. He dedicates himself to maintaining the vessel at peak condition, ensuring the highest standards of safety and enjoyment for guests engaging in water sports activities. In his pursuit of professional growth, Divan is diligently working towards obtaining his OOW certification, a testament to his commitment to excellence. An avid Advanced Open Water diver, he finds solace and adventure beneath the waves.

When not tending to duties aboard the boat, you'll likely find Divan perfecting his swing on the golf course, indulging in yet another passion that brings him joy and relaxation.

Raised in the countryside of England’s East Midlands, Lara developed a strong affinity for the ocean from an early age. With her family owning a sailing yacht in Palma, she spent much of her childhood at sea, cultivating a natural confidence onboard and a deep respect for the maritime environment.

Upon completing her A-levels, Lara undertook independent travel across Australia and Southeast Asia at the age of 18. This experience enhanced her cultural awareness, adaptability, and independence, while reinforcing her ambition to pursue a career that integrates international travel with her passion for the sea.

Lara brings a proactive attitude, resilience, and a strong work ethic to the deck team. She is committed to continuous professional development and is focused on advancing within the department, with the long-term objective of building a successful and enduring career in the yachting industry.

Shannon hails from Johannesburg, South Africa, where she spent her formative years on a farm. She pursued her academic endeavors at the University of Pretoria, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Childhood Education, specializing in both Foundation Phase and Special Needs Education.

Her adventurous spirit led her to Barcelona, where she embarked on a year-long journey teaching English. Captivated by the allure of travel, Shannon pivoted her career towards yachting, a decision she hasn't regretted even after eight fulfilling years.

Beyond the seas, Shannon harbors an unwavering passion for mixology, showcasing her creativity in crafting unique cocktails and exploring the diverse palette of wines. Her world is a delightful fusion of bartending artistry and vineyard discoveries.

During her downtime, Shannon indulges in outdoor pursuits like hiking and beach outings, relishes friendly tennis matches, and eagerly explores the vibrant communities around her.

Hailing from the vibrant coastal city of Durban, South Africa, Jenna’s deep-rooted connection to the ocean began in childhood, nurtured by the rhythms of seaside life.

In 2021, as global travel resumed in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, she launched her career in the yachting industry. With a natural enthusiasm for the maritime environment, a love of travel, and strong interpersonal skills, Jenna quickly found her calling in this dynamic field.

Eager to grow within the industry, she aspires to progress into the role of Chief Stewardess, with the ultimate goal of becoming a Purser. Her passion for yachting is matched by her love for cultural exploration—she thrives on experiencing new destinations and immersing herself in the rich diversity of people and places around the world.

During her downtime, Jenna enjoys shopping and uncovering the unique charm and character of every city she visits, always finding inspiration in the details that make each place special.

Gideon hails from Torquay, UK, a picturesque seaside town affectionately known as the English Riviera. His early years were marked by a move to Antibes, France, where he immersed himself in French culture while attending school, sparking a lifelong love for yachting. Returning to Torquay to complete his education, Gideon pursued an Engineering Apprenticeship, laying the groundwork for his future in maritime pursuits. In 1997, captivated by the allure of yacht engineering, Gideon journeyed back to Antibes.

Starting his maritime career as a 3rd Engineer, Gideon steadily ascended the ranks, eventually attaining the position of Chief Engineer during the Millennium period (1999-2000) in Saint Barts. Since then, he has traversed the globe aboard various yachts, continuously refining his skills and expertise. In early 2024, Gideon became an integral part of the crew of Extra Time, contributing significantly to the vessel's launch, commissioning, and successful sea trials.

Currently, he resides in Nice with his wife, two teenage daughters, and a younger son. When not at sea, Gideon finds joy in exploring motorcycle trails across France, actively participating in competitions through a local club, where he embraces the exhilaration of the ride.

Growing up in Port Elizabeth, Doné spent most of her childhood by the ocean, creating unforgettable memories fishing with her family. Those early experiences sparked a lifelong passion for the sea and shaped her deep appreciation for nature, adventure, and the outdoors. Some of her favourite moments were spent at the beach, walking her dogs along the coastline and embracing the freedom and calm that comes with being near the water.

Naturally adventurous, she has always been drawn to new experiences and environments that keep her active and inspired. Whether it’s exploring the outdoors, running, or taking on new challenges, she thrives on adventure and discovering new places. Driven by her passion for working with people, she
earned a Bachelor’s degree in Education and spent three years teaching.

While she found teaching incredibly rewarding, her love for the ocean and travel ultimately inspired her to pursue a career in the yachting industry — a dream path that allows her to combine her passion for the sea with the opportunity to explore some of the world’s most beautiful destinations while connecting with people from all walks of life.

Captain Olly's upbringing on a horse farm in the North of England fostered his enduring love for travel. During his teenage years, he ventured to Canada and the USA for work opportunities. Subsequently, he pursued a degree in Business Management at Lancaster University, funding his education by delving into the car trade. Upon completing university, Olly discovered the perfect fusion of his passion for travel and his management expertise within the yachting industry, which he joined in 2000. (Past yachts SOSA)

Throughout his illustrious yachting career, Olly has navigated the waters of the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and Seychelles. Additionally, he spent significant time working on boats in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Fate smiled upon him in 2003 when he crossed paths with his future wife on a boat in Florida; she served as a chief stewardess while Olly manned the deck, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Presently, Olly resides in the picturesque hills above Nice, accompanied by his wife, their 15-year-old son, two dogs, and a gaggle of ducks.

Olly loves the outdoors, is a passionate skier and especially enjoys off piste touring. He also enjoys trials motor biking and mountain biking.

Since departing from school, Dicky has diligently climbed the ranks within the culinary world, honing his skills in Michelin-starred and renowned restaurants across the globe. His journey culminated in his appointment as Head Chef in Bermondsey Village, London. Over the years, he has garnered numerous accolades, consistently topping the charts in the esteemed Good Food Guide.

Throughout his illustrious 25-year career, Dicky has perfected the craft of haute cuisine, infusing modern European flair with innovative fusion flavours. Fuelled by a fervent wanderlust and a relentless quest for novel taste experiences, Dicky never fails to astonish palates with his culinary creations.

When not orchestrating gastronomic marvels in the kitchen, Dicky finds solace in indulging in a hearty bowl of Weetabix followed by a leisurely cycle ride.