Theo is from France but did much of his education in the United States. Whether it’s in French or English, Theo is always looking forward to striking up a conversation; especially when it involves sailing, surfing or skiing. Theo has been working on Lady Kathryn V since 2018. He has recently passed his officer’s license and takes great enjoyment in his vocation. He is passionate about being a seafarer, traveling to new places and meeting new people.

Theo Saadi
First Officer
With 10 years of experience working within the yachting industry, Sean started his career whilst still working in high school in beautiful Knysna, South Africa. Sean also delivered catamarans from Cape Town to the Caribbean and South Pacific Islands which encouraged him to step on to larger yachts and sailing further afield. Sean likes to practice yoga and play the guitar, also spending spare time on hiking trails and exploring nature parks. Passionate about motivating people to further themselves and sharing his enthusiasm in permaculture and biomimicry, Sean also loves to learn from all people he meets.

Sean Burger
First Officer
Ben grew up as the son of farmers in a small African country, Zimbabwe. Cheffing has taken him all around the world however he loves going back to Zimbabwe where he passionately fishes the banks of the Zambezi and enjoys anything to do with the African outdoors. He attended boarding school from an early age, where he excelled both academically and on the sporting field.
Furthering his studies in Cape Town at Silwood culinary school assured his love of the kitchen, and it is there that he was classically French trained and obtained his Grande Cordon Bleu diploma. Ben went on to work in Cape Town, spending his time in the kitchens of some of South Africa’s most
prestigious restaurants-La Colombe, The Test Kitchen, Potluck Club, the Greenhouse to name a few. It was then that Ben embarked on his yachting career, where he has accumulated vast culinary knowledge from all corners of the world. Looking to the future, Ben hopes to open his own gourmet safari lodge in the heart of the African wild where two of his passions will surely someday collide.

Ben Ehrke
Head Chef
Josh grew up by the sea, surrounded by boats, which sparked his passion for the yachting industry from an early age. Now in his second year in the industry with one full season of experience, Josh brings an outgoing personality and a love for adrenaline-based activities that keep him motivated and energetic. Josh truly enjoys working with people and being part of a strong team environment. His goal is to progress as far as possible in the industry, continuously learning new skills, and becoming the best seafarer he can be.

Josh Marais
Deckhand
Growing up in my father’s auto mechanic shop in Jamaica, I learnt the value of hard work and doing things the correct way. No shortcuts!
As Chief Engineer, the safety of onboard personnel and the vessel is of primary importance. I enjoy Wakeboarding, Chess, Basketball and Soccer plus I love doing at least 100 push-ups a day.

Ayon Smith
Chief engineer
Nelson is a hardworking, determined and dedicated individual from Clarendon, Jamaica. Nelson loves the outdoors and sports and enjoys spending time with his friends and family and giving back to his community to make it a better place. It’s Nelson’s dream to travel, see the world and explore different places, all while connecting with other young people. Being a dedicated problem solver coupled with four years of experience in the industry means that Nelson brings added value to Lady Kathryn V’s safe and functional operations.

Nelson Thompson
2nd Engineer
All the way from Western coast of South Africa, Pieter has always loved figuring out how things work, especially engineering systems. Troubleshooting and maintenance keeps him motivated, whilst his deck role allows him to stay active, enjoy the sun and meet new people. Ashore, Pieter is all about motorsports, especially dirt biking, where he can explore nature and tinker with mechanics. Whether on land or at sea, Pieter is always up for adventure!

Ricardo Gerber
Deckhand
Hailing all the way from South Africa, Dani has a deep appreciation for discovery and new experiences. Curious by nature, she finds joy in exploring different cultures, ideas, and flavors. Cooking is her happy place, a creative outlet where she feels most at home, experimenting with recipes and turning simple ingredients into something meaningful.

Dani Lund
Chef
Matilda “Tilly” is a driven professional with degrees in Business Management and Communications from Oakland University. Originally from the small town of Owosso, Michigan, she developed a deep love for the water and sailing at a young age on the lakes of northern Michigan. With a passion for hospitality, she thrives in dynamic environments that allow her to connect with people and create memorable experiences. Outside of her career, she enjoys traveling, fashion, food, and film, always seeking new inspirations and cultural experiences. Her background and interests make her a well-rounded individual with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to excellence.

Matilda Hannah
Stewardess
Neil grew up in rural South Africa. After completion of his degree at the University of Cape Town he followed his dream of working on the ocean, starting his career in France. Almost 13 years later he moved up the ranks to Captain. He joined the Lady Kathryn Program as Chief Officer in 2008 and played a vital role in planning the deck areas for Lady Kathryn V. He is also our ‘go-to guru’ with any technical problems. Neil holds his Master 3000GT and runs a professional, happy crew. He and his wife have two sons and a daughter. Neil enjoys running, wakeboarding and playing golf.

Neil Riemer
Captain