Interests: Travelling, mountain biking, snowboarding, wakeboarding
Originally from UK, Natalie now calls New Zealand home. She has spent the last 17 years working and travelling across the globe in beautiful high-end venues. These experiences have contributed to her strong passion for the hospitality and service industry. She has had the pleasure of looking after A-list celebrities and even royalty! With a flair for mixology, bar tending and fine dining, Natalie’s transition from land to the water was a very easy move. With 43 countries under her belt, Natalie loves exploring new cultures and cuisines. Natalie looks forward to welcoming guests on board and providing unforgettable charters.
Natalie Thake
Chief steward/ess
Previous Yachts: M/Y SYCARA IV (46m), M/Y NEVER ENOUGH (42.6m)
Interests: Scuba diving, windsurfing, underwater photography
Born and raised in New York City, Marcus emerged as a distinguished figure in the realm of yachting. Starting his journey with an illustrious 18-year tenure in the restaurant industry, he eventually ascended to the pinnacle of his career as the owner and operator of a renowned Bar & Grill in Manhattan. While indulging in tropical getaways during his leisure time, Marcus's affinity for the ocean led him to venture into the captivating world of scuba diving. For a remarkable seven years, he served as a scuba instructor, traversing the pristine waters of the Caribbean and Pacific. These experiences immersed him in a world of boats, ships, and yachts, ultimately leading to his acquisition of Coast Guard licensing. Since 2011, his unwavering dedication and leadership have been most prominently demonstrated at the helm of the illustrious PERLE BLEUE. As the captain, he possesses an unparalleled blend of experience, character, and unyielding competence. Marcus's steadfast demeanour ensures that he expertly navigates any situation that arises, inspiring confidence in his crew and guests alike.
Marcus VanOort
Captain
Interests: Watersports
Nic was originally born in Wales, UK but grew up in Auckland New Zealand. Growing up Nic spent a lot of time on the water, and it grew to be his passion. At the age of 16 he spent two weeks as crew on board a square rigger ship that sailed throughout the south island of New Zealand. This experience set the foundation of the possibility of a career at sea. When Nic was 17 years old, he travelled to Palma de Mallorca to pursue a career in superyachts. Since then, Nic has had an excellent career. Over the last 16 years, he has gained valuable work experience on varying vessels ranging from 25m- 72m in size. Currently, Nic is married with two adorable children and is living in Riga, Latvia. Nic started on PERLE BLEUE in 2023 in a temp role, and we are happy that he has continued on to become rotational captain with veteran Marcus. We know Nic will bring a high standard and a sunny disposition to all his charters and trips this year!
Nic Edmonds
Captain
Previous Yachts: M/Y SEA RACER (47m), M/Y TE MANU (49m)
Interests: Fishing, watersports.
Abun's roots can be traced back to the vibrant capital city of Dalaguete in Cebu, Philippines. Growing up on his family's farm, he was immersed in an environment that taught him the fundamental values of hard work, patience, and perseverance from the early stages of his life. In 1995, Abun's dream of a maritime career began to materialise as he stepped into the world of apprenticeship. He eagerly seized opportunities to serve on various commercial vessels and superyachts. This initial experience provided him with a solid foundation and a deep understanding of the complexities of sailing and managing a vessel and has enabled him to progress to the role of First Officer. With an infectious, light-hearted spirit, Abun thrives in the company of both guests and crew while at sea. He also cherishes the moments spent engaging in his favourite past times, such as fishing and watersports.
Abundio Llanos Ebarola
First Officer
Interests: Watersports, cycling
Duro comes from Croatia, a stunning country with over 1000 islands. He grew up in Dubrovnik, the pearl of the Adriatic sea. His grandfather and father were fishermen who instilled in him a love and, most importantly, respect for the sea. Before becoming an engineer, Duro was a chef for many years but his love for the sea prevailed and drew him back. His love for motorbikes and vintage cars lead him to mechanical engineering. Combining both his passions has driven Duro to where he is today, PERLE BLEUE’s chief engineer! In his free time, Duro enjoys long bike rides, watersports and fishing. Since joining the industry, he has visited many countries and befriended people from all over the world. Whenever he is home, Duro enjoys taking his children fishing and diving so they can discover the sea together and make memories.
Duro Valdimir
Chief engineer
Interests: Surfing
Adrian was born in Queensland, Australia, however he was raised in Malaysia where he has had great exposure to Asian cuisine and culture. Diversifying his experience, Adrian kickstarted his career in 1988 partaking in a culinary apprenticeship with a French and Italian curriculum. By 2001, Adrian took to sea and has worked in the yachting industry ever since. He has spent many seasons working with celebrities cruising the Atlantic, the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Adrian has experience on charter and private yachts ranging from 35-80m, including holding the role as a Head Chef on a 75m yacht. During his short break from yachting, Adrian ensured he remained well-travelled. He worked at the Beijing Olympics as an Executive Chef and achieved his dream of opening a surf resort in Indonesia. Adrian is never too far from sea, if he is not placed on board, he is towards the shore enjoying surfing.
Adrian Krause
Chef
Interest: Travelling, cooking
Alannah originates from Toronto, Canada and opted to leave the corporate world of events and marketing behind to pursue her career in yachting. With a natural flair for hospitality and an eye for detail, she was drawn to the yachting industry as a way to combine her professional strengths with her lifelong passion for travel and adventure. Her love for travel has taken her to destinations across Europe, south east Asia, Africa, the Caribbean and the Americas. She is always inspired by new cultures and thrives off meeting new people. Her professional experience in guest services and event planning has equipped her with the ability to anticipate needs, maintain high standards and bring positive energy charter. Whether setting up a sunset cocktail hour or adding thoughtful touches to your stay, Alannah is committed to delivering an exceptional on board experience.
Alannah Kennedy
Stewardess
Interests: Swimming, travelling, music
Ross, a young adventurer captivated by the irresistible call of the yachting industry, embarked on his remarkable journey in 2021. Fuelled by a deep-rooted passion for the sea, Ross has swiftly honed his skills on both sailing and motor yachts, immersing himself in breathtaking destinations like the Balearics and the South of France. Despite his youthful spirit, Ross embodies a remarkable work ethic, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to providing unparalleled service with a genuine smile. He thrives on the open deck, basking in the warm sun, and eagerly takes guests on thrilling new escapades. From discovering hidden swimming spots with the tender to zipping around on jet skis, Ross's boundless enthusiasm knows no limits. With a fun-loving nature and an innate desire to create unforgettable moments, Ross is dedicated to ensuring that every guest on board experiences the time of their lives.
Ross Seaton
Deckhand
Previous Yachts: M/Y JEMASA (49m)
Interests: Sailing, engineering, spending time with his family
Dani, raised in Dubrovnik, Croatia, developed a love for the sea from sailing with his father during school holidays. After high school, he pursued engineering and embarked on a career working on Product and Crude oil Tankers for over eight years. In 2006, Dani transitioned to yachting, starting as part of the crew on JEMASA, completing a worldwide itinerary. He then oversaw a 47-meter new build, ensuring its successful completion and sea trials. Outside of work, Dani cherishes time with his wife, daughter, and son. Known for his outgoing nature, he is a valued member of the PERLE BLEUE team, eager to share his knowledge and passion in the engine room.
Dani Duganzi
Chief engineer
Interests: Hiking, camping, climbing, snowboarding, music, football
Originating from Buxton, located in Derbyshire, Josef was exposed to food at a young age. A passion inspired by his grandfather’s family-owned restaurant, where Josef began his career as a chef in 2009. Josef has had a remarkable culinary career to date, with vast experience working in Michelin star restaurants on land, and since, spending several years at sea on superyachts. With a passion for food like Josef’s, he has a flavour for all cuisines from street food to fine dining. Alongside a wide range of expertise, Josef’s speciality includes making bread and desserts. Outside of the kitchen, Josef is a father to his 13-year-old daughter and enjoys spending quality time with her and his fiancé.
Josef Jordan-Lomas
Chef