Zsofia originally grew up in Hungary, but has spent the last 13 years working on both private and charter yachts travelling around the world. In that time she has become adept at anticipating and providing for clients’ needs to ensure that any charter runs smoothly.
She is known for leading by example and takes extreme pride in always providing the highest standard of service. With her friendly personality and outstanding organisational skills, Zsofia will ensure guests on MES AMIS experience exemplary service and leave with the very best memories.
In her free time, Zsofia enjoys a variety of different sports both on and off the water including Crossfit and running.
Zsofia Kiss-Horti
Chief steward/ess
Jason was born in Scotland but moved to South Africa at an early age. He spent two decades in Cape Town before embarking on extensive travels across Europe.
With over 25 years of professional culinary experience, including more than a decade in the yachting industry, Jason honed his craft in London, training under renowned chefs from around the world. His expertise spans a diverse range of cuisines, from Pan-Pacific to European, French, Italian, and Asian fusion, consistently delivering exceptional dining experiences.
Beyond the kitchen, Jason has a strong passion for sports and nutrition, enjoys fishing, and is always on the lookout for the world’s best beaches.
Jason Carruthers
Head Chef
With a deep passion for sailing and the outdoors, Laura is dedicated, experienced and well qualified. Her journey into yachting began with her experience as a sailing instructor. Since transitioning to professional yachting, she has built a solid reputation for delivering exceptional experiences for owners and guests, while ensuring smooth and efficient deck and navigation operations.
Beyond her professional achievements, Laura is an adventurous spirit with a love for the outdoors.
With a proactive mindset, a love for life at sea, and a diverse skill set, Laura is a dynamic and valuable addition to Mes Amis.
Laura Swallow
First Officer
Growing up in Norfolk in the East of England, Henry began his sailing career young. Racing Optimists at the age of 12, his sole focus became to sail the best yachts. At the age of just 20, he was given the opportunity to race on one of the most well-known racing yachts, the J-Class ENDEAVOUR built for the 1934 America’s Cup.
Since then, Henry sailed the clipper round the world race in 2020 and, proud of his racing achievements, he’s moved into charter yachting, hoping to use his skills to create unforgettable experiences or others.
Henry has shown himself to be fantastic charter crew who delights in making his guests' experiences the best they can be. He now joins MES AMIS and feels very lucky to be working on a yacht with such excellent racing pedigree.
Henry Hallat
First Officer
Originating in Gold Coast, Australia, Jesse has since embraced a global lifestyle. His journey into yachting began in 2004, building on prior experiences in Marine Rescue and commercial fishing, which seamlessly transitioned him into a new maritime home.
With a perpetual desire to explore, Jesse spends his downtime travelling to new countries and engaging in activities that push his limits, such as rock climbing and competing in jiu-jitsu. Despite his adventurous pursuits, he has a gentle nature and enjoys amateur butterfly photography.
As the vessel's engineer, Jesse's broad knowledge base makes him the go-to problem solver, always ready to lend a hand and devise solutions when challenges arise
Jesse Barnes
Chief engineer
Whilst Nick was born and raised in Cape Town, after moving to Europe at age 21 he dived head first into his yachting career. He honed his skills by spending five years working aboard various private yachts in the Mediterranean before spending a year familiarising himself with charter work in the Bahamas.
With previous experience working with Captain Brett Bennett, Nick is an invaluable member of the team, ensuring the smooth running of LA PETITE AMIE as the jewel in the crown of MES AMIS. With an adventurous and fun-loving attitude, Nick is the ideal custodian of your adventures beyond MES AMIS.
Always staying active when he can, Nick loves to spend his free time doing CrossFit, swimming or playing squash and is always on for a game of chess.
Nick De Waal
Chase Boat Captain - LA PETITE AMIE
Amanda grew up on the south coast of Sweden and grew up sailing in the idyllic fjords in the summer which led to the nautical path she’s taken now. Learning Spanish throughout her childhood, she took the opportunity to travel South America after leaving school, where she caught the travel bug. Her move into yachting was the perfect confluence of her nautical background and her desire to see the world.
Amanda’s bubbly personality and positive attitude mean she is the life of the party and ensures that every charter is a delight. However, if its racing prowess and thrill-seeking your looking for, Amanda’s experience racing large yachts all over the world means she is an adept companion for maximising MES AMIS’ sailing potential.
Amanda Snog
Stewardess
Growing up in Cape Town, South Africa, Howard has always had a desire to travel the world. After picking up his culinary qualifications and cutting his teeth in Cape Town, he decided that it was time to make a name for himself in the wider word, which led him to yachting.
Howard’s versatile style allows him to curate the ideal menu to the tastes of any guests. He also feels very strongly that the best way to have happy guests and crew is to make sure they’re well fed and have the opportunity to create community through food.
Howard Foss
Head Chef
OPTIONAL
Frank is extremely friendly and obedient and loves nothing better than going for a swim, showing guests affection, and having a snooze on his crew bunk!
Mr Frank
Chief Mascot
Originally from the heart of Botswana, Col brings a vibrant energy to the team. Growing up in the wild, open spaces of Africa, Col developed a fascination for insects and wildlife, with a background in acting, and dance. Col is a natural entertainer and will make you feel more than welcome onboard.
As a skilled mixologist, Col crafts creative cocktails to suit any taste, making every experience on board unique with an adventurous spirit, artistic talent, and dedication to service.
Coleen Grant
Stewardess