Raised in Cape Town, Thomas first discovered a passion for graphic design before seizing the opportunity to pursue his culinary dreams. With a love for cooking and a curious nature, he found that working on a yacht perfectly combines his creative interests and love of adventure. As Sous Chef on LONIAN, Thomas enjoys exploring unique ingredients and experimenting with new techniques in the galley. He is always eager to share his culinary creations, exchange stories and forge meaningful connections with those he meets aboard this floating oasis of adventure.

Tom Bailey
Chef
Hailing from Auckland, Nik has a passion for learning, sport and the outdoors. Working as an engineer on yachts provides the perfect balance of technical skill, problem-solving and hands-on work. After studying Marine Engineering through a cadetship at the New Zealand Maritime School and working on commercial vessels in the oil and gas industry, Nik moved into yachting to see the world. In his spare time he enjoys fishing, diving, surfing, skating, snowboarding and riding his classic Honda GB400.

Nikolas Gould
Engineer
Ellie is from Cheltenham, a picturesque town in the Cotswolds. With eight years of experience as a beauty therapist, she has worked in world-renowned spas and boutique hotels, developing a wide range of skills and an eye for detail. In 2021 she combined her love of beauty and travel by joining yachting and has since worked on yachts between 55 and 100 metres. Passionate about adventure, Ellie enjoys scuba diving in her spare time and recently completed her Advanced Open Water certification in Thailand. She joined LONIAN in January 2025.

Ellie Beere
Stewardess
Originally from Stockholm, Fredrick developed a passion for cooking early on and trained at the International Hotel and Restaurant School. His career began with internships in Mallorca followed by experience at the two-star Michelin restaurant Dani Maison on Ischia, where he refined his skills in high-end kitchens. Fluent in Swedish, English and Neapolitan, Fredrick transitioned into yachting one year ago. He specialises in creating memorable dining experiences for international guests, blending fine dining with the fast-paced life at sea. Away from the galley he enjoys exploring new destinations and embracing adventure.

Fredrick Manfredi
Chef
Mike has been involved in the yachting industry for 12 years after coming from a commercial marine engineering background. His career has taken him to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, South Pacific, Central and North America. He has also lived in several countries including the UK and Croatia. Mike enjoys scuba diving, paddleboarding, wakeboarding and the occasional round of golf. When not working onboard LONIAN, he lives with his family in Luzon, Philippines, and returns home to New Zealand whenever possible.

Michael Sara
Chief engineer
Born and raised in landlocked Hertfordshire, a career at sea seemed an unlikely choice for Patrick, perhaps inspired by a family love of sailing and travel. After completing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, he left textbooks behind in favour of hands-on work. In 2011 he headed to the south of France to begin his career as a marine engineer. Modern technology led him into an AV/IT role on LONIAN during the build process and after launch. Known for his calm, approachable nature, Patrick enjoys working with diverse colleagues to keep the ship in top condition. When not fixing systems, he can be found doing watersports, training in the gym or learning about new technology. Away from yachts he loves spending time with his wife and children, renovating their home and staying active.

Patrick Allen
Chief engineer
Jacek is an AVIT officer on LONIAN with almost a decade of experience on commercial and private vessels. He holds a master’s degree in Telecommunications and Electrical Engineering and has completed PhD studies in Electroacoustics. Known onboard for being professional, helpful and friendly, Jacek is approachable and a master at solving technical problems. Outside of work his passions are travelling and sport, especially basketball.

Jacek Kolodziejski
AVIT/ETO (rotational)
Josephine holds degrees in History and Environmental Studies. After graduating she moved to Nice, France to immerse herself in French language and culture, a journey that introduced her to yachting. Over the past eight years she has built a varied career, starting as sole stewardess on a 25m vessel and progressing to larger yachts up to 90m. For the past six years she has served as Purser on the 87m M/Y LONIAN. Outside work she enjoys reading, staying active and discovering new places through travel.

Josephine Perrin
Purser
Krysty comes from Edmonton, Alberta. With a love for travel and the ocean it was only a matter of time before she found herself working on yachts. Over the last eight years she has worked on both charter and private yachts while gaining knowledge in service and wine. As Chief Stewardess on LONIAN, Krysty is excited for the challenges and opportunities ahead. Before yachting she worked in the hospitality industry while completing a Bachelor of Science degree at a Canadian university. In her spare time Krysty enjoys yoga, football, snowboarding, wakeboarding, hiking and camping.

Krysty Clowater
Chief steward/ess
Tas grew up on his family’s rice farm in rural Thailand. After earning a BA in Industrial Technical Education, he worked for five years in an automotive factory but wanted to travel and improve his English. He trained in laundry at the Marriott Resort and Spa in Thailand before embarking on a yachting career, where he has now worked for nine years. Tas is known for his positive attitude, willingness to help and constant smile. He loves learning new skills, trying new things, and seeing the world.

Taspramual Buaket
Steward