Fátima is from La Paz, Mexico, a very special and quiet place in Baja. She has been working as a stewardess on industry for over 8 years, cruising all of the East Coast of the US, the Caribbean, the Sea of Cortez, Pacific Ocean, Panama Canal and the all over the Mediterranean. Through her varied positions on superyachts, she's perfected the arts of fine-dining silver service, ornate settings, flower arrangement, and even large event management. Fátima loves traveling, learning new languages and cultures, and enjoying all different styles of worldly food. She continually strives to create the most amazing experiences for her guests,
providing an elevated standard and quality of excellence in service. Her main goal onboard is to help provide all those special moments and memories to the fantastic guests of M/Y Rule No. 1. Fun fact: Fatima got her start as a paramedic at the Red Cross, until she found a new opportunity and decided to trade ambulances for ocean-going yachts. You can see how gratifying she finds her work in her everyday positive attitude onboard.
She's always open to new experiences and opportunities. Over her many years on the industry, she has traveled more than 5000 nautical miles on her seaman's book and stacked up unforgettable memories along the way.
Fati, loves challenges and new adventures, and absolutely cannot wait to provide an unforgettable experience for you and all of our guests as we explore the beautiful terrain ahead! Welcome onboard M/Y Rule No. 1!
Fatima Aguilar
Chief steward/ess
Matt grew up in a small, picturesque fishing and surfing village on South Africa’s wild East Coast, where he developed a love for the ocean and an adventurous spirit. Surfing and exploring his home country fueled his passion for water-based activities, ultimately inspiring him to embark on a career in yachting. Starting in the Mediterranean, Matt worked his way up from deckhand to bosun aboard large yachts with demanding charters and exotic itineraries.
His extensive knowledge and hands-on experience make him a valuable asset to any crew. Skilled in water sports, tender operations, and deck management, Matt is currently focused on achieving his Officer's tickets and aspires to earn his Captain's title. He is always eager to spend time on the bridge, gaining practical experience in vessel operations and maneuvering.
Outside of work, Matt is passionate about staying active. Whether skating, surfing, or lifting weights, he embraces an energetic lifestyle. He also enjoys editing video content captured on his GoPro, often featuring pranks or highlights from crew adventures. A social and outgoing individual, Matt loves a good South African braai with friends and colleagues, where his easy-going personality shines.
Matt’s dedication to self-improvement and his strong work ethic reflect his pride in his role. With his approachable nature and drive for excellence, he is a respected leader in training and a dependable team member.
Matthew Hedger
Mate
Mitch grew up in Port-Elizabeth, South Africa. He started his travels to the northern parts of Mozambique where he found himself working at the Pemba diving bush camp as a resort chef. In his free time he acquired his Dive Master cert. with over 1000 dives under his belt. Mitch's next chapter started in Durban, South Africa where he joined a 75 ft. sail vessel for a Southern Ocean crossing as a chef. He then stepped into an engineering role aboard the vessel due to unforeseen catastrophic weather conditions, which sparked his passion for engineering and his love for the sea. After spending time in Australia, he then started his new adventure to the east coast of the United states.
While working his way up in the ranks, for the following six years he cruised the East Coast of the US as well as Bahamas, Key West, Dry Tortugas, East Coast of Mexico, Cuba, Belize, BVI's and US Vi's. He started his full-time engineering career on M/Y Shalimar. Mitch is a hardworking and charismatic individual who goes out full-timey to ensure guests have the time of their lives aboard
the vessel.
Michal Schutte
Chief engineer
Alex, a native of El Dorado Hills, California, brings a rich cultural background and an adventurous spirit to the yachting industry. With family roots in Italy and Switzerland, Alex developed a love for travel, outdoor sports, and culinary traditions that have shaped his personality and professional approach.
Alex pursued a business degree at the University of Nevada, Reno, where he honed his organizational and teamwork skills over four years. Following his graduation, he embraced his passion for adventure and transitioned into the yachting industry. Starting his career in New Zealand, Alex gained valuable experience that has taken him to the stunning waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
Despite being new to the yachting world, Alex is recognized for his energy, enthusiasm, and proactive attitude making him a valuable member of the Rule No. 1 crew.
When he’s not on duty, Alex immerses himself in outdoor activities. His interests include mountain biking, dirt biking, snowboarding, and wake surfing—especially at Lake Tahoe, where he enjoys quality time with friends. On his days off, you’re likely to find him at the beach, throwing a ball, skating, or meeting new people.
Alex’s culinary skills are another asset he brings to life on board. During his time on yachts, he often stepped up to prepare BBQ’s, earning a reputation for grilling the perfect steak. His Italian heritage has also endowed him with the ability to craft delicious pasta dishes from scratch, a talent appreciated by crew and guests alike.
Alex is an energetic and outgoing young professional with a bright future in
Alex Carpigano
Deckhand
Captain David Straky
Born in Santa Monica and raised on the beaches of Malibu and Ventura, Captain David Straky has spent his life on the water. From a young age, he was immersed in the ocean lifestyle as a Los Angeles County Junior Lifeguard, surfer, diver, and fisherman, developing a deep passion for the sea.
After earning his Emergency Medical Technician certification and an Associate of Science in Fire Science, David joined the U.S. Coast Guard in 1997. Over the next 20 years, he served in Virginia, Oregon, Los Angeles, San Diego, Guam, and Hawaii. He conducted global Search and Rescue operations, ran surf boats on the rugged coasts of California and Oregon, and became one of only 40 certified Coast Guard Divers at the time. His career highlights include polar diving and completing two expeditions to Antarctica and one to the North Pole as a Polar Diver and Icebreaking Deck Watch Officer.
David later earned a Bachelor of Science in Maritime Transportation and his Upper Tonnage Captain License. While stationed in Micronesia, he operated as an Engineer Diver and Construction Ship Driver, overseeing Search and Rescue, Law Enforcement, and Waterways Management across the Pacific.
Transitioning into the luxury yachting world, Today, he specializes in unforgettable charters along the Southern California coast, the Channel Islands, Cabo San Lucas, and the Sea of Cortez.
With decades of experience and a lifelong passion for the ocean, Captain David Straky ensures every guest experience is personal, professional, and truly one-of-a-kind.
Dave Straky
Captain
Meet Cameron, a dynamic and adventurous individual with a passion for exploring the world and creating unforgettable experiences. From South Africa, Cam brings a vibrant energy and a genuine love for swimming and the great outdoors to every adventure.
As someone who thrives on making meaningful connections, Cameron’s mission is to bring joy to others through thoughtful and personalized service. With a smile that can light up any room (and sometimes even cause sunglasses to be necessary!), Cameron is dedicated to ensuring that every interaction leaves a lasting impact, helping others feel valued and cared for.
Cameron’s love for adventure and commitment to excellence shine in everything she does, whether organizing exciting activities, providing seamless service, or making sure every detail is just right. With a deep appreciation for nature and new experiences, Cameron is always seeking ways to enhance the journey, ensuring every moment is filled with fun and joy.
Her ability to connect with people and enthusiasm for adventure make her a standout in any team, leaving a trail of smiles wherever she goes.
Every interaction with Cameron is carefully curated to go above and beyond and make a lasting impact.
Cameron Van Der Merwe
Stewardess
Since he was a child Juan Carlos would always watch with delight at what food his family prepared in his grandmother's kitchen, in the amazing Mexico City. There were always new, fun and interesting culinary experiences- the final result was hours and sometimes days of work. That collective effort would bring the satisfaction, surprise, and pleasure to the fantastic dinners and delights that his grandmother prepared.
From there arose the love of alchemy, of magic and art, which are transformed into the art of bringing pleasure to the 5 senses through diverse culinary expression.
Throughout 20 years in the Yachting Industry, his experience with Michelin Star restaurants sent him
navigating throughout the Mediterranean Sea, Asia, the Middle East, Central and North America, Caribbean Sea. Now he seamlessly incorporates the best styles of international cuisine into what he shares with all of our guests on their adventures on the beautiful yacht Rule No. 1!!
Juan Carlos
chef
Uziel was born and raised in Loreto Baja California Sur. With more than thirteen years of culinary experience, Uziel is a reference in Mexican cuisine and international signature cuisine. His career ranges from his work as a private chef on luxury yachts, ranging from 30 to 70 meters, to the consolidation of his own business project in Loreto, Baja California Sur.
He is the founder and owner of “Buena Vida” restaurant bar that combines traditional flavors with innovative proposals, and “Buena Vida Tours”, a company specialized in maritime experiences that has been a success in the region during its 8 years of opening.
Uziel's passion for gastronomy has led him to create unique dishes that stand out for their creativity, quality and respect for local ingredients. His vision combines tradition with innovation, making each culinary experience a work of art.
Today, Chef Uziel continues to lead projects that celebrate Mexican culture and the splendor of Loreto, offering unparalleled experiences both on land and at sea. And we are very glad to have him as part of our team!
Uziel Leano
Chef