Crew Profiles

Captain: Grant Church

Captain Grant Church hails from the scenic coastal town of Wilderness, South Africa, just a few hours from Cape Town. Growing up surrounded by the ocean, Grant developed a passion for water sports at an early age, mastering surfing and wakeboarding with his family's boat. His athleticism extended to land as well, where he excelled in tennis and hockey.

After completing his education in civil engineering at university, Grant's love for the sea led him to pursue a career in marine engineering. At 28, he made the transition to yachting, where his skills and dedication quickly propelled him forward. Grant now holds both Chief Engineer 500GT and Captain 500GT licenses, ensuring that you and your family are in expert hands.

With extensive experience sailing around the world, including several years exploring and diving in the Pacific, Captain Grant is well-versed in the art of navigating both adventure and luxury. Currently, he commands NO MATTER WHAT, offering charters between Nantucket, Florida, and the Bahamas. His commitment to excellence and passion for the ocean promise an unforgettable experience on the water.

Mate: Aya Gericke

Aya hails from Wilderness, a small coastal town in South Africa, where the ocean has always been a central part of his life. Growing up, he spent countless hours fishing and surfing, which sparked a lifelong passion for the sea and a deep connection to nature. These experiences shaped his adventurous spirit and instilled qualities of patience, resilience, and adaptability.

As a dedicated waterman, Aya thrives on the energy of the ocean and enjoys sharing his love for the water with others. He’s always eager to embrace new challenges and continue exploring the many ways the sea inspires him.

Stewardess: Jessica Ambrose

Jessica’s culinary journey began in South Africa, where the vibrant flavors and rich culture inspired her love for cooking. After more than a decade at sea, she has become a sought-after chef in the yachting industry, known for her ability to blend taste with wellness and creativity.

Her diverse life experiences deeply shape her approach to food. After studying yoga in India, she adopted a holistic lifestyle that naturally flows into her cooking philosophy. For Jessica, food is not only about flavor but also about nourishment, balance, and elevating the spirit.

Her degree in fashion and design adds another dimension to her culinary artistry, as she places great care into the presentation of each dish, ensuring that meals are not just delicious but visually stunning. Jessica offers guests aboard NO MATTER WHAT a dining experience that is as nourishing for the body as it is for the eyes and the soul.