Crew Profiles

Captain: Fergus Ross
Nationality:British
Having travelled the world's oceans on both power and sailing yachts, Captain Fergus has gained extensive experience. His
flexibility, demonstrated in his leadership of 37m M/Y HUSH and 52m S/Y ELFJE, is one of his greatest strengths. He possesses in-depth knowledge of cruising various regions, including the Mediterranean, North and South Atlantic, Caribbean, South and North Pacific, and the Indian Ocean. Fergus is dedicated to providing exceptional guest experiences and service. He guides his crew with delight, sharing the knowledge he has amassed over his 30- year career. Additionally, he is an enthusiastic sailor, having managed numerous racing seasons and appreciating classic sailboats.

First Mate: Sean Judkins
Nationality: New Zealand
Sean’s pathway into yachting has not been a conventional one. Having spent many years navigating the turbulent waters of secondary schools in three different countries, the lure of a new career was enough for him to trade in the whiteboard and desk for thechamois and the sea. His transition into life on the water has been in part aided by his past involvement in both team and individual sports, with the opportunity to learn new skills and visit exotic destinations making the move a rewarding one. He is lucky to have a hugely supportive family behind him, which has enabled him to continue this new journey. He is starting his third season, with this being his first time in the Caribbean.

Chief Engineer: Ivan Tsygankov
Nationality: Ukrainian
Ivan has been working in the yachting industry for two years and brings a strong technical background from commercial cargo vessels. Before joining Sabai, he gained experience on 40-meter motor yachts, developing solid engineering skills and a calm, reliable approach to problem-solving.
Ivan enjoys taking on new challenges, continuously learning, and keeping the vessel running at its best. Positive, communicative, and team-oriented.
Passionate about the ocean, traveling and anything related to engines and machinery.
I’m proud to be part of the Sabai crew and love working onboard.

Chef: Carlos Ariel Valle
Nationality: Italian / Argentinian
Carlos found his passion for food early in life and has got more than 20 years’ experience working in Hospitality from 1998 and all over the world - from awarded restaurants and 5* hotels to private boutique chalets and 150 metre
superyachts.
He started his professional career in Yachting in 2012 and has had the pleasure of working for the Italian Royal Family, ministers from Qatar and China and a host of household names, including Sting, Robbie WIlliams and Coldplay. He
holds a professional Culinary Arts diploma and a European Master of Gastronomy degree.
Carlos combines his wealth of experience and expertise with engaging interpersonal skills to produce unforgettable dining experiences. His cooking inspiration is drawn from a broad spectrum of global cuisine, including Italian, classic French, light Mediterranean, Japanese, Middle Eastern and other regional specialities. He is adept at tailoring menus to suit personal preferences and dietary requirements.

Chief Stewardess: Michele Hoistsema
Nationality: Dutch
Born in Portugal, raised in St. Maarten, and later based in Scotland, I’ve always had a love for exploring new places and connecting with people from different backgrounds. With a grandfather who was a sailor and a childhood spent around boats, the ocean has always felt like home. Outside of work, I love hiking, discovering new places, and spending time on the beach; anything that keeps me outdoors. One of my favourite parts of yachting is getting to share my island and the places I love with guests, helping them experience the magic of the Caribbean and create lasting memories. Working on Sabai has been a highlight for me, combining adventure, great teamwork, and an atmosphere I’m proud to be part of!

Stewardess: Jess Crombie
Nationality: Scottish
I grew up in the Scottish Borders and have always loved the outdoors, which gives me a friendly down-to-earth approach to life onboard. With a degree in Design for Textiles I bring a creative eye for detail to my role on Sabai.
Now in my second Caribbean season and two years into yachting, I combine solid service experience with a warm bubbly energy from my background in housekeeping and hospitality. I love working as part of Sabai’s close-knit crew,
where we focus on teamwork to deliver seamless, welcoming experiences for our guests.
Outside of work I enjoy swimming, baking, horse riding and diving, which help me stay balanced and bring a positive energy to the team.