Qualifications: Master 3000
Previous Yachts: MY Enchantress (35m), MY Vintage (46m), MY Quincy C (27m), M/Y Formosa (60m)
Julien grew up on the beautiful island of Corsica in the Mediterranean Sea, where he spent his summers sailing, diving, and exploring. He went on to earn a Master’s degree in Economics and Entrepreneurship from the University of Aix-en-Provence, before furthering his studies in English in the United Kingdom. Ready for a new challenge, Julien was introduced to the yachting industry, where he has since built many years of experience. He continues to enjoy the dynamic lifestyle and opportunities that yachting has to offer.

Julien Ritrosi
First Officer
Qualifications: OOW 3000gt, Bachelor of Commerce in Financial Management
Previous Yachts: M/Y Flag (63m), M/Y Addiction (55m), M/Y Il Vagabondo (67m), M/Y Formosa (60m)
Raymond is from Johannesburg, South Africa. Growing up, he was actively involved in a variety of sports, including rugby, soccer, swimming, and athletics. After finishing school, he went on to study Financial Management in Pretoria and initially pursued a career in the corporate finance world. However, he soon realized it wasn’t the right fit for him. With a strong love for the ocean, Raymond was naturally drawn to the yachting industry, where he has thrived ever since. Now a dynamic Chief Officer, Ray is dedicated to ensuring the safety and comfort of all guests on board, always putting their experience first.

Raymond Charlotteaux
First Officer
Qualifications: Yacht master Offshore
Previous Yachts M/Y Twisted (32m)
Nathan grew up on a farm in the northwest of South Africa, where his family raised cattle, pigs, and various poultry. Surrounded by nature from a young age, he developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors and a keen interest in observing animals in their natural environments. In his free time, Nathan enjoys game drives, hiking, and traveling, and has recently taken up spearfishing—an activity that brings him great enjoyment. Yachting has given him the opportunity to explore the world and experience a life beyond the ordinary. What began as a career path has grown into a true passion, with seamanship becoming not just a skill, but something he deeply values and appreciates.

Nathan Grimsdell
Bosun
Qualifications: Rescue Diver, RYA Tender operations,
Previous Yachts: M/Y Amore Mio, M/Y Come Prima
Sam grew up on the Canary Island of Tenerife and entered the yachting industry straight after finishing school. Inspired by the idea of exploring beyond his island home, he embraced the opportunity to travel the world. He has a strong passion for water sports, which has earned him the nickname “Seabob Sam.” His friendly and bubbly personality ensures that every interaction with guests and crew is enjoyable, and he takes pride in being attentive and always ready to help. Sam is also a certified rescue diver and enjoys using his skills while assisting with water activities on board. In his free time, he enjoys boxing, exploring new places, and spending time outdoors.

Sam Cawley
Deckhand
Qualifications: Yacht master, BCOM in Management Science
Previous Yachts: M/Y Helios (60m), M/Y Smoke, M/Y 7 Seas (83m)
Francois grew up in Cape Town and later moved to Stellenbosch to study Management Science. After completing his studies, he worked at an oncology center for several years before discovering the yachting industry and fully committing to it. He later relocated to the Seychelles, where he spent six years working for a charter and boat management company, gaining valuable experience. In March 2024, Francois returned to yachting aboard Planet 9 and continues to enjoy everything the industry has to offer. Known for his enthusiasm and kind nature, Francois is a gentle soul who consistently goes above and beyond to ensure guests have the best possible experience on board.
Francois Van Niekerk
Deckhand
Qualifications: Bachelor of arts and visual communication.
Previous Yachts: S/Y Allegra (25m), M/Y Formosa (60m)
Cam grew up on the South Coast of Durban, South Africa, surrounded by the ocean and the outdoors. After finishing school, he moved to Cape Town to study Art and Visual Communication. His passion for the ocean, travel, and experiencing different cultures naturally led him to the yachting industry. Although new to the field, Cam is quickly developing a deep appreciation for it and continues to discover new aspects he loves each day. Sociable and easygoing, he enjoys spending time with family and friends—but above all, he has a true passion for surfing.

Cameron Patterson
Deckhand
Qualifications: Yacht master offshore, bachelor’s in business and marketing
Previous Yachts: M/Y Sea/Daze (27m), M/Y Shake n Bake tbd (50m), M/Y Formosa (60m)
Pablo grew up in Spain and, at the age of 15, spent a year in the United States on an exchange program. After finishing school, he went on to study a Bachelor’s degree in Business and Marketing, completing his studies between Madrid and France. With a strong passion for adventure, sports, and the outdoors, Pablo was naturally drawn to the yachting industry. In his free time, he enjoys a wide range of activities, including surfing, snowboarding, diving, rock climbing, and traveling—always seeking his next adventure.

Pablo Chillida
Deckhand
Qualifications: BSC Marine Engineering
Previous Yachts: M/Y Talitha (80m), M/Y Formosa (60m)
Nick was born in Stockholm, Sweden, and moved to Mallorca, Spain, with his family at the age of three. Throughout his teenage years, he split his time between Spain and Sweden, gaining a diverse cultural background. After finishing school, Nick began his career as a mechanic before entering the yachting industry, where he worked for two years. He later decided to further his expertise by studying Marine Engineering at university to advance his qualifications. Following his studies, he gained experience in the commercial sector and on cruise ships before returning to the yachting industry. In his spare time, Nick enjoys staying active through fitness and running, as well as traveling. He is also a passionate football enthusiast.

Nick Gibbs
Chief engineer
Qualifications: Unlimited Chief Engineer, Chief Officer
Previous Yachts: Container Ships CMA/ CGM from 2000 TEUS to 24000 TEUS
Guilhem grew up in central France, far from the sea, yet he always felt a strong connection to the ocean. This passion ultimately guided his decision to pursue a career as a marine engineer. He spent many years working on container ships, where he gained extensive experience and formed lasting friendships, including with Lucas. After a long and successful career in the commercial shipping industry, Guilhem chose to transition into yachting, seeking new challenges and adventures. In his free time, he enjoys cycling, especially long-distance rides across Europe.

Guilhem Laubie
Chief engineer
Qualifications: 2nd Engineer unlimited, Marine engineering bachelor’s degree
Previous Yachts: M/Y Chopi Chopi (80m), M/Y Next Chapter (55m), Nautilus liveaboards, M/Y Formosa (60m)
Carlos grew up in a small town on the west coast of Mexico, surrounded by farmland. After working in various maritime industries, he decided to pursue his career in yachting. Having worked on multiple vessels, Carlos has developed a strong skill set and a keen understanding of how to ensure every experience runs smoothly. His calm demeanour, problem-solving abilities, and hands-on approach make him a valued member of the Planet 9 team. In his free time, Carlos enjoys staying active by working out and spending quality time with his loved ones.

Carlos Palafox
Engineer