Growing up in New Zealand, Ben developed a passion for the outdoors, whether in the sea or the trees. Throughout school, he was deeply involved in sports—basketball, swimming, and water polo—as well as the arts, focusing on painting, design, and photography. His love for yachting was immediate, as it perfectly combined his background in hospitality and water sports. Since attaining his Master 3000GT qualification, Ben has been honing his skills with the goal of stepping into a captain’s role in the coming years. When not working, he enjoys traveling and is remotely studying for a Diploma in Wines.

Olivia AKA Liv grew up in Melbourne. She spent her childhood summers with her dad in Indonesia which kick started her love for travel. After completing her Bachelor’s degree in Business, she began travelling across Australia as a DJ, eventually finding her love for the east coast. This is where her yachting career started. Between DJing locally in Byron Bay, to working on small charter yachts, she wanted to take her career to the next level.

Originally from New Zealand, Malaika began her career in yachting through a natural enjoyment of hospitality and creating memorable experiences. She takes pride in delivering a high standard of service while keeping the atmosphere relaxed and enjoyable, and especially enjoys crafting cocktails with creativity and flair. Professional, approachable, and always up for a bit of lighthearted banter, she contributes to smooth onboard operations and ensures every guest feels comfortable, well looked after, and able to truly enjoy their time onboard.

Jonathan AKA Jonte joined yachting two years ago after more than 20 years as a chef on land — including Michelin-starred kitchens, two restaurants of his own in Sweden, and a culinary consulting business. Swedish by birth and a father of two, he brings a calm, organised approach to the galley, with a broad international repertoire and a real love for the craft.

Polly grew up on a sheep farm in rural New Zealand not far from the ocean. Before yachting, she spent four years as a fashion model before entering the industry in 2019. She has since worked on yachts ranging from 80m to 110m, including Wanderlust. A natural host with a love for the details, she thrives off five-star service and the art of making people feel truly cared for. A certified Pilates Instructor and advocate for wellness, she brings a grounded, feel-good presence to both her team and the guest experience. Away from work, she enjoys diving, immersing herself in local culture, and capturing her adventures through photography and music. She’s happiest when she’s on the move, music playing, and surrounded by good people.

Ben brings over 20 years of culinary experience to the galley, starting his career as a baker before moving into restaurants and rising to head chef. Ten years ago he brought those skills to yachting, where he has since crafted dining experiences aboard luxury vessels and in private villas. He's passionate about local, seasonal ingredients of the highest quality, and dishes that quietly showcase the depth of his craft.

Angus, AKA Gus - joined Starlust in 2024 to see unique parts of the world and spread his passion for the ocean and marine life to guests. Angus has a degree in Marine Science and loves sharing his knowledge of the underwater world. In his spare time, he loves to surf, dive, fish, swim and spend time at the beach. When on land, he likes to think he's the next tiger woods on the greens or the next Michael Jordan on the court, and considers himself a bit of a multi-sport athlete. Angus is easy to recognize with his lofty height and his contagious smile.

Hailing from a beach town in New Jersey, Ava has always felt a strong connection to the ocean and the outdoors, spending her early years on the volleyball court and by the water whenever she could. She went on to study Hospitality and Tourism Management at Florida State University, where her passion for travel and people came together, before spending her summers teaching sailing in the British Virgin Islands and later becoming a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor in Utila, Honduras. Since joining the yachting industry, Ava has explored destinations across Central America, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean, cherishing the people and places she’s encountered along the way.

Travis was born and raised in a beautiful and wild part of South Africa, where his parents owned and operated a water sports resort. He spent his childhood water-skiing, surfing, diving, and enjoying the outdoors. Before yachting, Travis worked as a carpenter in film features but transitioned to the industry in 2007. He has since traveled the world, both on yachts and independently, fuelling his passion for exploration and cultural experiences. During his free time, Travis enjoys remote surfing excursions, large pelagic diving and riding motorbikes. He also takes great pride in mentoring others and sharing his love for the
ocean.

Devon has been on and around the water his whole life, taking his first trip away on the family sailing yacht at just six days old.
He sailed competitively and spent family holidays on small sailing yachts while growing up. At 20, he joined yachting professionally and has since cruised various parts of the world, including the Pacific, Mediterranean, Caribbean, Americas, Southeast Asia, Maldives, and Japan. During his leave, Devon spends most of his time on his own sailing yacht in New Zealand.
Recently, he spent two years sailing her home from the Atlantic U.S. via the Caribbean, Central America, and the Pacific Islands - covering over 10,000 nautical miles solo. He finds the greatest joy in creating unforgettable experiences for guests and uncovering hidden gems that make yachting so special.