Francesco has had a passion for sailing and the ocean for as long as he can remember. Francesco grew up in Italy and pursued formal maritime studies at the Academy of the Italian Navy and the University of Genova, building a strong technical and nautical foundation from the outset. His career has centred around large sailing yachts, including a 60-metre Perini Navi ketch, where he served as Bosun and later First Mate. This background has given him a deep understanding of sail operations, deck management, and maintenance.
Comfortable both underway and in shipyard periods, Francesco brings a hands-on, detail-oriented approach to THALYSSA. With experience in tender driving, watersports setup, and extensive deck maintenance, he ensures the yacht runs efficiently while guests enjoy a relaxed and active time on board. His rescue diver qualification and international experience further strengthen his calm and capable presence at sea.
Previous yachts:
S/Y BLACKWOOD (30m), S/Y SEVEN (60m),
S/Y AGLAIA (26m),
S/Y WAYFARER (30m), S/Y VISTONA (16m),
S/Y ARGYLL (17m)

Francesco Giove
First Officer
Jamil brings his calm and friendly approach to life on board THALYSSA. Having completed several Mediterranean seasons on both private and charter yachts, he is confident with docking, anchoring, line handling, exterior care, and tender support. He naturally steps in wherever needed, whether assisting on deck, helping with watersports, or supporting interior service to ensure guests feel completely at ease.
With a background in business and finance, Jamil also offers strong organisational skills, which quietly support the smooth day-to-day running of the yacht. Friendly, attentive, and always willing to lend a hand, he enjoys being part of a cohesive team and takes pride in creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for everyone on board.
Previous yachts:
M/Y WHISPER (23m),
S/Y CANSUM (12m)

Jamil Dbouk
Deckhand
With over 25 years in yachting and 18 as Captain, Hess brings a steady hand and a wealth of charter experience to THALYSSA. Originally from South Africa, his early background in hospitality shaped a service-led approach that remains central to how he runs his programmes today. He understands that every charter is unique, and he takes real pride in tailoring each itinerary to suit his guests — whether that means secluded anchorages, vibrant ports, or action-packed days on the water.
Safety is always his first priority, but close behind it is ensuring guests feel relaxed, well looked after, and free to simply enjoy their time on board. Calm, approachable, and highly experienced across the Mediterranean and Caribbean, Hess fosters a happy, motivated crew and a smooth-running yacht. Guests can feel confident they are in very capable hands, with a Captain who genuinely enjoys creating memorable experiences at sea.
Previous yachts captained:
M/Y KIJO (43m),
M/Y G3 (43m),
M/Y SANCTUARY (43m), M/Y TITIAN PEARL (43m), M/Y IROCK (35m),
M/Y FIORENTE (37m),
M/Y ROBUSTO (42m),
M/Y SUPERTOY (28m), M/Y CARRARA (27m),
M/Y PRINCESS J (24m)

Hess Pepler
Captain
Originally from the UK, William built his foundations in high-end kitchens before moving into private dining and yachting, where he discovered a love for the fast-paced and ever-changing nature of life at sea. Since entering the industry, William has worked across both sailing and motor yachts, as well as luxury catering and private villas throughout the Balearics, developing a versatile cooking style shaped by Mediterranean influences and fresh seasonal ingredients.
With experience catering for private owners, on busy charters, and for large-scale events, William is confident creating everything from refined multi-course dinners to relaxed family-style dining and creative canapés. Guests find him calm and adaptable. Passionate about tailoring menus to individual needs, he takes pride in delivering thoughtful, memorable dining experiences while maintaining a warm and approachable presence on board.
Previous yachts:
S/Y APOLLO 99 (24m), S/Y JOY (23m), S/Y ALEXIA (34m), M/Y TRIPPLE EIGHT (27m), M/Y NICOLA

William Clarke
Chef
Tilda is our Chief Stewardess who brings her warm, capable approach and a calm, positive presence on board. She entered yachting in 2022 after building a strong work ethic in demanding land-based roles, including as a machine operator in Sweden and in hospitality at a remote mountain lodge in the Arctic Circle. Since then, she has developed solid experience on board a 37m private and charter yacht, progressing quickly and showing her leadership capability after just one season. Her background has given her a practical, no-drama attitude, excellent stamina, and the ability to stay composed and organised on a busy charter.
Tilda works closely with the galley, enjoys cocktail making, and brings strong skills in housekeeping, and team support, all with a professional yet approachable style that helps guests feel immediately at ease. Away from work, she has a passion for cars and motorsports, as well as an interest in wine, travel and running, which adds to her easy conversation and energetic presence within the team.
Previous yachts:
M/Y TASTY WAVES (40m), M/Y NO PROBLEM OF LONDON (30m)

Tilda Johansson
Chief steward/ess
Denis brings his extensive maritime experience to THALYSSA, having spent over two decades working at sea. Originally from Croatia, he began his career in the commercial shipping sector, serving as both junior and senior engineer on oil tankers before progressing to Chief Engineer roles on large tuna fishing vessels. He later transitioned into yachting, where he has spent more than ten years managing and maintaining the engineering systems of yachts up to 50 metres.
A highly reliable and dedicated engineer, Denis is known for his strong technical knowledge, attention to detail, and commitment to keeping every aspect of the yacht running smoothly. He holds a range of advanced engineering qualifications, including MTU training, and enjoys staying up to date with new technologies. Outside of work, Denis enjoys keeping up with emerging technologies and spending his free time sports fishing.
Previous yachts: M/Y LADY I. (44m), M/Y SANCTUARY (44m), M/Y MAGENTA M
(44m), M/Y BELUGA (45m), M/Y FIORENTE (37m), M/Y PETRA (37m), M/Y TANIT
(50m), M/Y BELUGA (37m)

Denis Valcic
Engineer
Born and raised in the Lake District, Betsey developed a love for the outdoors and the water from an early age. With seven years of hospitality experience and three years of sailing experience through the Royal Windermere Yacht Club, she naturally gravitated towards a career that combined her passion for service, travel, and life at sea. Since entering the yachting industry, she has gained valuable experience across both private and charter programmes.
Friendly, hardworking, and always eager to learn, Betsey brings her can-do attitude and strong team spirit to life on board. Her background in luxury hospitality, cocktail service, fine dining, and event support has given her a keen eye for detail. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, hiking, tennis, and music, and is known for her sense of fun. Betsey takes pride in creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests and helping ensure their time on board is
relaxed, seamless, and memorable.
Previous yachts:
M/Y PRINCESS IMPERIAL (24m), M/Y NINA JOY (42m), M/Y FIORENTE (37m), M/Y RUSH (56m)

Betsey Hepwood
Stewardess