Born and raised in a small town on South Africa’s east coast, Chanel
began her career as a primary school teacher, spending four years shaping young minds. But when she discovered the world of yachting, her adventurous spirit took over. She packed her bags, set sail, and hasn’t looked back since. Now, five years into her yachting journey, Chanel remains deeply passionate about life at sea. She’s dedicated to providing guests with exceptional service and unforgettable experiences, always with a warm smile and a creative touch. Whether she’s setting up a stunning tablescape or making sure every detail is just right, she brings energy, professionalism, and love for hospitality to every moment onboard.
When she’s not working, Chanel enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking through nature trails or cruising along on her skateboard, always seeking out her next little adventure.

Chanel Hobbis
Stewardess
Ocean-Jade Mets is a dedicated and accomplished superyacht stewardess with almost 2 years of experience in the luxury yachting industry. Originally from Durban, South Africa, she has a professional background as a surfer and a passion for interior decor, which complements her meticulous approach to yacht preparation and hosting. Known for her bubbly personality, Ocean-Jade thrives in high-pressure environments, She is also an avid adventurer, with a love for the ocean, water sports, and outdoor activities.

Ocean-Jade Mets
Stewardess
Shannen Smith from Mossel Bay, South Africa, a coastal town in the Western Cape. She graduated high school in 2017 after which she went on to study Somatology for 3 years and decided to advance her studies with another year in Dermal Aesthetics whilst working alongside Dermatologists and Plastic Surgeons. She has always had a love for the ocean and wanted to see the world. She left home in 2022 to go work abroad on cruise liners where she was a skin and body care therapist. There she learnt about yachting and never looked back. Her school holiday job was being a hostess at a local guest house for tourists; yachting allowed her to combine her love for skin/body therapy and guest service. In her free time, she likes to go hunting, play golf and spend time with family and friends.

Shannen Smith
Stewardess
Growing up on the seaside with a father who mastered all things on the water, Ricky found his niche in surfing, the one thing his Dad had left for him to conquer alone. He mastered this sport, becoming an advanced surf coach and travelling the world. His grandfather, a skilled carpenter, was also a huge influence in his life and when he wasn't surfing, he was side by side learning the tools of his grandfather's trade, eventually becoming a carpenter himself. But it was the real love of his life, his girlfriend Cardye, who directed his sails to the seas, although she might argue that it was more of a kick in the right direction. He joined yachting in 2022 and they have been rendezvousing in ports ever since. He is working on his OOW with the goal of becoming an officer in the near future.

Rigard (Ricky) Smit
Deckhand
Originally from South Africa and proudly half Greek, half Portuguese, Manny brings a unique blend of cultural richness and technical expertise to the deck team. Before joining the yachting industry, he worked as an automotive technician at South Africa’s leading car customization shop, where he specialized in luxury and supercars. Manny’s love for travel isn’t just about the places — it’s about the people. He thrives on connecting with guests and crew from all walks of life and brings warmth, professionalism, and a friendly energy to every encounter. Outside of his role on deck, Manny is an avid photographer with a love for capturing authentic moments, and a dedicated runner who enjoys the challenge of staying active wherever he is in the world. Whether assisting on a busy day at sea or helping to create memorable guest experiences, Manny is always ready to go the extra mile.

Manny Dos Santos
Deckhand
Erik is a true seafarer. Born in Brazil, he was raised and homeschooled on a sailing yacht for 7 years of his childhood traveling much of the globe and learning from his father. At university he studied Computer Engineering before the ocean pulled him back and he bought a sailing yacht of his own. It was during this time, he started to come across large motor yachts and decided it was easier to save money working on a boat over owning one. Today he lives with his son and wife, Holly, in Palma, Mallorca. In his rotations off you can find him there, kitesurfing and getting into carpentry or welding projects, building robots or sailing.

Erik Niedermeier
Chief Engineer (Rotational)
Andrej is a highly skilled ETO ( Electrical Technical Officer) onboard. With his extensive technical knowledge, he is responsible for ensuring that all electrical and electronic systems onboard the yacht are running smoothly, including the all important Wi-Fi system. Originally hailing from Split, Croatia, Andrej has a deep passion for his hometown and often goes back there during his rotations. He grew up in a family of sailors and has always been fascinated by the intricate workings of boats. His love for technology led him to pursue a career in marine engineering and eventually became an ETO.

Andrej Jakasa
ETO (Rotational)
Jozo is a highly skilled ETO (Electrical Technical Officer) with extensive experience working on super yachts. Originally from Croatia, Jozo grew up with a passion for technology and engineering, which eventually led him to pursue a career in the marine industry. Over the years, Jozo has become an expert in his field, with a deep understanding of the complex electrical and electronic systems that power modern super yachts. He is also highly adept at troubleshooting and problem-solving, and is always up for a challenge when it comes to repairing or upgrading onboard technology. In addition to his technical skills, Jozo is also known for his friendly and approachable manner. He enjoys interacting with guests and crew alike, and is always happy to answer questions or provide assistance whenever it is needed. Overall, Jozo is an invaluable member of any super yacht crew, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, alongside a warm and welcoming personality.

Jozo Siscov
ETO (Electro-Technical Officer)
Do not let Josh’s youth fool you; he is one of the most seasoned sailors onboard. He was introduced to sailing at the age of 10 as a boy scout and quickly realized he had a natural talent for it. During and after school he sailed professionally, racing sailing yachts between 31-54ft. In 2022, at 19 years old, he transitioned to motor yachts, starting off on what was then, the world’s largest sailing yacht, 94m Sailing Yacht A. He subsequently worked on smaller yachts as a Mate and Captain before joining Loon as a Deckhand. Josh is an avid Kitesurfer and is the brand ambassador for Lacuna Kite Boards. In his spare time, he showcases the capabilities of the Lacuna equipment and helps to fine tune new breeds of kites, boards and bridles for them.

Joshua J
Deckhand / Pro Kitesurfer
Michael comes from a little lake town north of Toronto, Canada. He started his yachting career in 2007 and has climbed the ranks through the years, becoming Captain in 2016. Michael has completed most of his maritime education in the UK and holds a Master

Michael James
Captain