Hailing from York in the north of England, Matty brings culinary expertise shaped through years of experience in Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury hotels, private estates, and world-class yachts. From an early age, Matty knew he wanted to cook and explore the world. He’s since done just that. As Head Chef at RISH in York, he was awarded the Egon Ronay Star of Excellence and earned a place in the AA Good Food Guide. Matty is known for his warm, approachable character, quick wit, and natural ability to adapt his menus to suit the preferences of any guest. Whether it’s plant-based cuisine, health-conscious fare, or indulgent comfort food, he crafts dishes with passion, precision, and creativity. His commitment to health and nutrition led him to become a certified Vegan Chef in 2016. When he’s not in the galley, Matty’s most likely outdoors, walking a rugged trail, reading by a campfire, or diving into the ocean. In 2024, he and his wife completed the 900km Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. A keen swimmer and beginner surfer, and scuba diver, Matty also dreams of running a marathon and writing a book one day. With front-of-house experience as well, Matty understands the full scope of luxury hospitality and the importance of teamwork. Passionate, self-motivated, and ever-evolving, Matty considers his proudest achievement to be his teenage daughter.
Matty Weeks
Chef
Caitlin, known as "Boombs," is a true firecracker of a person hailing from the vibrant metropolis of Johannesburg, South Africa. Her family later moved to White River near the Kruger National Park, where she spent her childhood at "bush school" and developed a deep connection with Africa's wildlife. After school, Boombs moved to Cape Town to study Art Direction and Marketing. She worked as a Studio Manager and Brand Strategist but sought more adventure, which led her to yachting. Boombs has a natural charisma and is always up for a fun adventure. As the Chief Stewardess’s right-hand woman, she’s a hardworking, loving, and kind stewardess who would give the shirt off her back for someone in need. An incredibly valuable member of the crew, Boombs is relied upon to initiate the next great adventure and ensuring guests have a fantastic time. Her yachting career has taken her along the European coastline, from Spain to Italy, across the Caribbean, and to the United States.
Caitlin Tearle
Stewardess
Originally from England and the daughter of a British diplomat, Katie's teenage years took a vibrant turn when her family relocated to South Africa. From that point on, her love for diverse cultures, cuisine, and landscapes only grew, eventually steering her toward the world of yachting. Affectionately known on board as our “international woman of mystery,” Katie carries herself with a quiet confidence, a twinkle in her eye, and that signature British dry wit that always catches you off guard. While she may seem reserved at first, she quickly reveals her warmth, humour, and a genuine passion for connecting with others. She enjoys tennis, horseback riding, and skiing. Growing up in the town famous for Glastonbury Festival, her love for music runs deep, and she's always on the lookout for live gigs. and sunshine-filled afternoons. With a strong eye for detail and a love of beautifully curated spaces, Katie hopes to study interior design one day. She’s also deeply passionate about conservation and animal welfare,
Katie McCardle
Stewardess
Hailing from a small landlocked town in central South Africa, Johann’s journey to the sea was anything but conventional. After earning a three-year degree in Human Resource Management, he quickly discovered that life behind a desk wasn’t for him. Johann dove headfirst into a new adventure, driven by a deep passion for the ocean, he spent a year working at a scuba diving school, earning his instructor certifications and discovering a calling. Johann’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary. He cut his teeth on steel-hulled expedition vessels, venturing to some of the planet’s most remote destinations. He’s rounded Cape Horn, crossed the Pacific, and spent time exploring the pristine waters of French Polynesia, Fiji, Tahiti, and Australia. With over seven years of experience in yachting, Johann brings not only seasoned maritime expertise but also a unique ability to connect with guests and crew alike. His HR background adds an extra layer of empathy and leadership, ensuring that everyone onboard feels welcome, valued, and leaves with unforgettable memories.David has over 9 years of seafaring experience and is working towards his Captain's license. He is passionate about teaching people about the ocean and ensuring guests make unforgettable memories.
Johann Harmse
First Officer
Anthon, originally from Bloemfontein, South Africa, discovered his love for mechanics and all things afloat at a young age, driving his first boat, Apropolis, on the nearby dam. After spending time in the UK, he completed an electrician apprenticeship and became a certified 3-phase tester, laying the foundation for his engineering career. He joined the yachting industry over a decade ago, where his passion for engineering quickly surpassed his interest in hull polishing. Since then, Anthon has worked on yachts of various sizes and earned his Chief Engineer Unlimited ticket in record time. His career has taken him across the Mediterranean and Caribbean, completing multiple Atlantic and Pacific crossings, and even venturing as far north as the Baltic Sea. When he’s not onboard, Anthon enjoys tinkering with his VW beach buggy or restoring his classic Montesa trial bike. He’s also in the process of designing and building the ultimate aquaponics greenhouse. Above all, he treasures time spent with his little boy, watching him explore life by the beach. Colleagues describe Anthon as self-reliant and detail-oriented, embodying the belief that if a job is worth doing, it’s worth doing right. He’s also known for his keen interest in world politics, especially US affairs—so feel free to strike up a conversation with him on the topic.
Anthon Muller (Rotational)
Chief engineer
Growing up along the banks of the Danube River in Brăila, Romania, Ionel was captivated from a young age by the sight of commercial ships gliding into port. While no one else in his family shared his fascination with the sea, he felt a calling—and soon discovered a passion for the mechanical heart of these mighty vessels. What began as curiosity quickly became a lifelong career. Ionel pursued studies in marine engineering and has now spent over 35 years navigating the world’s oceans. His extensive experience spans a wide variety of vessels, from commercial ships to luxury passenger liners, before finding his true home in the superyacht industry. With deep technical knowledge, a calm and focused presence, and decades of hands-on expertise, Ionel ensures everything below deck runs smoothly keeping the vessel safe, efficient, and ready for adventure.
Ionel Zeca (Rotational)
Chief engineer
Bailin was born on the KwaZulu-Natal coast, British by descent but African at heart, and grew up in a family that embraced an adventurous, gypsy lifestyle moving and travelling all over the world. Bailin quickly moved from working in a pub to managing the kitchen, where he was able to discover his culinary talents. Bailin’s connection to people, the ocean, and nature led him to the world of yachting, where he thrives by feeding off the energy of others. Known for his boundless energy, he will always entertain guests and spread joy all around. Outside of yachting, Bailin is an avid surfer and golfer, with a knack for performing the occasional magic trick.
Bailin Mazoue
Deckhand
Wayne embarked at age 17 on a career with Unicorn Shipping Lines. Wayne gained valuable experience on merchant ships while studying Marine Engineering in South Africa. With a Mechanical Engineering Diploma and Class IV Marine Engineer's ticket, he transitioned into yachting. After his first year as a Deckhand/Engineer, he realised his passion for leadership and decided to pursue becoming a Captain. By 27, Wayne secured his first Captain's role—and hasn’t looked back since. Away from the helm, Wayne’s passion for all things water-related whether it’s surfing, wakeboarding, skiing, or diving, Wayne is always in his element. Recently, he’s taken up kite surfing, adding yet another string to his bow. Wayne is a patient and encouraging teacher for anyone eager to learn. When he's not riding the waves, you’ll find him snowboarding or off-roading on his motorbike, embracing the thrill of the outdoors. He also been known walk away victorious from a poker table.
Master Yachts
Wayne Torrance (Rotational)
Captain
Kate, born in England and raised on an olive farm near Cape Town, South Africa, pursued a career in Interior Architecture, which led to a transition into Event Design and Management. Kate boasts a wealth of experience in hospitality, having designed gala dinners for icons like Oprah and the King of England. Kate also earned an Honors Degree in Psychology and Social Work. Her love for the sea began when she joined an anti-poaching vessel off the coast of Costa Rica. With over 50 countries explored, Kate’s passion for creativity, service, and connecting with people from diverse cultures has only deepened. Yachting perfectly unites her passions, and she is dedicated to creating personalized experiences for her guests onboard La Dea II.
Kate Templeton
Chief steward/ess
Cameron, our Bosun, is an avid outdoorsman from Durban, South Africa. When he's not surfing the KwaZulu coast, he's riding motocross, playing rugby, cricket, or shooting hoops—skills that led him to represent South Africa on the basketball court. As a dive master, Cameron’s passion for the ocean and its wildlife runs deep. Cameron holds qualifications in Marketing and Business Management. A near-fatal fall his father experienced while picking fruit shaped Cameron’s resilience and instilled a "seize every opportunity" mindset. Cam’s (or “Cam” as he’s affectionately known) extensive travels and dedication to his work make him the backbone of the La Dea II crew. His honesty, loyalty, and dependability not only defines him as a team player but also highlights his commitment to ensuring that guests have an unforgettable experience.
Cameron Kenny
Bosun