Crew Profiles

CAPTAIN- JAKE KELLER- AMERICAN
Born and raised in the U.S. and now based in West Palm Beach, Florida, Captain Jake brings over 15 years of professional yachting experience to the helm. His career spans an impressive range of private and charter vessels, from busy New England and Bahamas programs to high‑end charters throughout Florida and the Caribbean. Known for his calm command, meticulous vessel management, and five‑star guest service, Jake has built a reputation as a dependable captain who excels in both operations and guest experience.

Off the water, Jake enjoys staying active outdoors, diving, and exploring new coastal destinations. His passion for the ocean and dedication to his craft make every trip with him both safe and unforgettable.


CHIEF STEWARDESS- WHITNEY SUTHERLAND- AMERICAN
Whitney brings seven years of dedicated yachting experience and a strong hospitality background to her role as Chief Stewardess. Having worked aboard a range of private and charter vessels across Florida, New England, and the Bahamas, she’s known for her exceptional service standards, creative tablescapes, and her ability to maintain a beautifully organized interior no matter the itinerary. With experience running full interior programs, managing provisioning, and hosting themed events, Whitney ensures every guest onboard feels welcomed and completely cared for.

Away from the yacht, Whitney enjoys spending time outdoors, staying active, and exploring new coastal destinations, always finding inspiration she brings back to her work onboard. Her warm personality, attention to detail, and passion for hospitality make her an invaluable part of the guest experience.


DECK/STEW- CARLA VAN ZYL- SOUTH AFRICAN
Originally from Cape Town, South Africa, Carla brings a vibrant mix of professionalism, adventure, and creativity to every charter. With hands-on experience aboard yachts up to 60 meters, she’s worked dual seasons in both deck and interior roles, mastering everything from teak maintenance and docking to mixology and childcare. A certified PADI Dive Master, Carla’s favorite boating activity is diving—whether it’s deep-sea, rescue, or discovery diving, she’s always ready to explore beneath the surface. Beyond yachting, Carla is a multi-talented musician who plays five instruments, including the ukulele, and she’s also a certified personal trainer with a background in boxing and yoga. Known for her bubbly personality and can-do attitude, Carla is all about creating unforgettable guest experiences with a splash of fun and flair.


MATE- FRANCOIS BURGER- SOUTH AFRICAN
Hailing from South Africa, Francois brings a dynamic blend of experience, enthusiasm, and reliability to every charter. With multiple seasons on luxury yachts across the Mediterranean and Caribbean, he’s built a reputation for being hands-on, hardworking, and a true team player.

Certified as a PADI Divemaster and Jet Ski Instructor, Francois thrives in the water—whether he's leading guest watersports, assisting with diving operations, or managing tenders. Off duty, he’s an avid fisherman, bodyboarder, and golf enthusiast. He also loves to DJ for fun, bringing great energy to crew gatherings and guest events.


CHEF- DARIO SUAREZ- ECUADORIAN
Chef Dario was born and raised in Guayaquil, Ecuador. He entered the boating world in 2008, at 29. Beforehand, he had worked in luxury hotels and restaurants, deciding to make the switch to cruise ships completely out of curiosity. Dario sailed the Enchanted Islands on the Galapagos explorer cruise, then worked as Executive Chef for Silversea Cruises and Celebrity Cruises for a total of nine years. Throughout his journeys, Dario has traveled to the Galapagos Islands, Margarita Island, Peru, San Andres. Other than the obvious – cooking- his hobbies include reading and writing about his life. He especially loves to cook for his children. When asked about his treatment of onboard guests are like “a group of friends” for whom he loves to cook, and “with great respect” he likes to “please their culinary tastes”. Since he is originally from Ecuador, Spanish is his first language but is also fluent in English.

DECKHAND- TBD