12th Season (Design & Build Captain)
Previous Yachts: M/Y Devotion (30m), M/Y Honey Bear (30m), M/Y Siran (70m), M/V Voyager (68m), M/Y April Fool (65m), M/Y Kiring (36m), M/Y Sycara III (57m), M/Y Capella C (60m)
James first started sailing at the age of 11 and was skilled enough to represent his country and be part of the British Squad from 12 to 15. His passion for the ocean, along with a natural ability to deliver an exceptional level of service, makes the perfect blend as Captain. James has more than 25 years’ experience in the superyacht industry. Having worked on board globally navigating and high-profile yachts he has the background and experience to lead his team to ensure the charterer and guests total satisfaction. Highly qualified in all areas from navigation and maritime communication to safety and medical, your safety and that of your guests will at all times be Captain James’ priority. You’ll find James' approachable and friendly manner enables the charterer and guests to feel at ease and will create the ideal atmosphere. James' motto for his crew is to "exceed expectations" so you can be assured an unforgettable experience.
James Harbord
Captain
Time Onboard M/Y Thumper: 4th Season
Previous Yachts: M/Y Parillion (48m), M/Y New Star (30m), M/Y Talisman (54m), S/Y Asia (30m)
Jonothan’s journey into the world of sailing began at the age of 12 on South Africa’s Vaal Dam Lake, where he first discovered his love for the water and learned the fundamentals of sailing. This ignited a lifelong passion for the sea. After earning his Day Skipper’s license, he swiftly transitioned into a yachting career, gaining valuable experience on various private yachts during global deliveries. Jonothan joined M/Y THUMPER as Bosun, quickly establishing himself as a key team member through his dedication, leadership, and technical skills. After three years, he advanced to Chief Officer, committed to maintaining the vessel's high standards, ensuring safety, smooth operations, and exceptional experiences for guests and crew. With an engineering background, Jonothan effectively supports multiple roles onboard, enhancing overall operational efficiency. Beyond his professional duties, Jonothan holds a PADI Advanced Open Water dive qualification, regularly exploring stunning coral reefs and wrecks. On windy days, he's the first to hoist the sails and head out sailing with friends, embracing his passion for the ocean and adventure.
Jonothan Hoffman
First Officer
Time Onboard M/Y Thumper: 5th Season
Previous Yachts: M/Y Horizon (42m), M/Y Lady Marina (37m), S/Y Spiip (34m), M/Y
M.M (34m), M/Y Strange Love (47m), M/Y Hampshire II (78m), S/Y Twizzle (57m)
Iain was born in Glasgow, Scotland and grew up in a small village called Bridge of Weir. His father was a gifted hands- on engineer who inspired Iain from day one, teaching him the intricacies of all things mechanically and electrically operated. From a young age Iain and the family spent most of the summer holidays cruising the West Coast of Scotland on small sailing yachts. He then spent 3 years studying mechanical engineering at Dundee University before deciding that the practical aspect and daily working environment of yacht engineering was to be far more suited to him. Iain has now been a Chief Engineer for over 9 years and during this time has gained valuable experience on a variety of sized vessels, both power & sail. Although Iain has spent the majority of his yachting career in the Mediterranean, he has also spent two seasons extensively cruising the Caribbean and even spent some time as far North as Nova Scotia. He currently holds his Chief Engineers Y3 qualification and with his experience and studies he will certainly ensure your time on board runs smoothly at all times.
Iain Macalister Hall
Chief engineer
Time Onboard M/Y Thumper: Debut Season
Previous Yachts: M/Y Jeel (24m)
Mark’s passion for food is truly unparalleled. His culinary journey began in 2009 when he joined the team at Michael Wignall at The Latymer, a two-Michelin-star restaurant, where he honed his craft and developed a deep appreciation for fine dining. Starting from the ground up, Mark worked across various sections of the kitchen, mastering techniques and learning the intricacies of high-end cuisine. His dedication and skill earned him the role of sous chef at The Ginger Pig (Michelin Bib Gourmand), where he continued to push the boundaries of his culinary abilities. It was at The Ginger Pig where Mark took the bold step of diversifying his expertise, spending one of his four years there as a Pastry Chef. This allowed him to expand his knowledge and skill set within the hospitality industry, embracing the challenges and creativity of dessert-making alongside his savory expertise.
Driven by a desire to broaden his repertoire even further, Mark embarked on a journey to become a qualified sushi chef. Under the guidance of Yuki Gomi, a renowned sushi consultant for Harrods and successful author, Mark not only perfected the art of sushi but also gained specialized knowledge in the preparation and cooking of fish. This invaluable experience led him to take on the role of Executive Chef at the Champagne and Oyster Restaurants, Riddle and Finns. During his six years there, Mark mastered the preparation and cooking of seafood, working with fish from all corners of Europe and ensuring every dish was a testament to his skill and dedication. In search of new challenges, Mark took on the role of Head Chef at The Saltroom in Brighton, which was awarded Best Seafood Restaurant in the UK in 2017.
Here, he led a large kitchen brigade, earning several prestigious awards and glowing national reviews. His culinary leadership and innovative approach set the standard for excellence in seafood dining, making The Saltroom a destination for food lovers across the country.
In 2024, after years of success in the restaurant industry, Mark made the bold decision to transition into yachting. After his first season aboard, he was hooked by the ever-evolving nature of the industry and the opportunity to create unforgettable culinary experiences for guests. Mark thrives in the dynamic environment of the yacht, bringing his wealth of experience, creativity, and passion for food to the table, ensuring that every meal is an exceptional and memorable experience. With his vast culinary background, from Michelin-star kitchens to specialized seafood expertise, Mark has the skills to craft exceptional dishes that delight guests at every turn. His dedication to his craft, combined with his new passion for yachting, makes him an invaluable asset to the team, ensuring that every guest enjoys a taste of perfection.
Mark Wadsworth
Chef
Time Onboard M/Y Thumper: Debut Season
Previous Yachts: M/Y Kolaha (60m), M/Y E-Motion (40m), M/Y Sea Shell (35m), M/Y Canados (43m), M/Y Elizabeth (40m), M/Y Deep Sea (35m)
Sophie was born and raised in France, a country renowned for its culture, landscapes, and timeless elegance. With English heritage from her parents, Sophie was naturally drawn to the exciting and fast-paced world of luxury yachting. Before joining the industry, she spent four years as a florist, a profession that ignited her deep passion for creativity and artistry. She developed a keen eye for detail and mastered the delicate balance of craftsmanship and design - skills she now brings onboard through stunning floral arrangements and refined interior touches that enhance the yacht’s ambiance. Sophie values teamwork and collaboration, believing a cohesive crew is essential to delivering exceptional guest experiences. Her leadership qualities and supportive nature help foster a positive onboard atmosphere where every team member feels valued. A passionate traveler with a curiosity for different cultures, Sophie easily adapts to new environments and thrives in dynamic settings. Now a proud member of the M/Y THUMPER team, she combines creativity, professionalism, and a love for service to create memorable moments for both guests and crew alike.
Sophie Taylor
Chief steward/ess
Time Onboard M/Y Thumper: 2nd Season
Previous Yachts: M/Y Vicious Rumour III (41m), M/Y Daisy D (50m)
Grace is a charismatic individual from the West Midlands in England, known for her warmth and natural ability to connect with people. Her engaging personality brings joy to those around her, making her a standout presence onboard. With five years of experience in the hospitality industry, Grace honed her interpersonal skills and developed a keen eye for service excellence. She then moved to Virgin, where she further refined her customer service expertise, preparing her for a seamless transition into the yachting industry. Driven by a love for travel, Grace joined yachting three years ago, fulfilling her dream of exploring the Mediterranean. During the winter months, she immersed herself in different cultures, traveling to New Zealand and Central America. These experiences enriched her approach to service and deepened her appreciation for diverse cultures. Now aboard M/Y THUMPER, Grace brings her vibrant energy and positive attitude to every guest interaction, ensuring unforgettable experiences. With her enthusiasm and dedication to service, she’s sure to become a highlight of any charter.
Grace Murphy
Stewardess
Time Onboard M/Y Thumper: 2nd Season
Previous Yachts: M/Y Nami (28m)
Born in Jersey and raised in Northern Ireland before settling in Brighton, Oakleigh was exposed to the beauty of coastal life from an early age. Her experience with the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) helped her build confidence, leadership skills, and a passion for adventure and travel, shaping her career in yachting. Oakleigh’s commitment to customer service was recognized early on with an award for outstanding service, leading to a role managing The Anchor Club, a fine dining restaurant in Jersey. It was during this time she became fascinated with yachting, drawn by the opportunity to combine travel, hospitality, and high-end service. After two successful seasons in yachting, Oakleigh expanded her horizons by traveling through Africa and Southeast Asia, gaining valuable insights that influenced her approach to service and leadership. Her strong work ethic, attention to detail, and dedication to creating memorable experiences for guests make her a standout in the industry. Oakleigh thrives in dynamic environments and is committed to providing exceptional service and fostering a welcoming, professional atmosphere for both crew and guests onboard.
Oakleigh Murphy
Stewardess
Time Onboard M/Y Thumper: Debut Season
Previous Yachts: M/Y Lady Maria (35m), M/Y Deep Sea (35m), M/Y Amor Azur II (45m), M/Y Elizabeth (40m)
Keanu holds a Yachtmaster Offshore certification and brings over two years of hands-on experience as a chase boat captain aboard a 39ft vessel, operating extensively in the Mediterranean and Caribbean. In this role, he leads a variety of guest activities, from fishing excursions to diving operations, ensuring each experience is safe, enjoyable, and memorable, with his calm demeanour and natural leadership. Additionally, Keanu is a certified PWC Instructor (PWI), allowing him to teach guests about jet ski safety while ensuring they have an exciting yet safe time on the water. Driven and career-focused, Keanu is currently working toward his Officer of the Watch (OOW) certification, having completed two of the seven required modules. His proactive attitude and dedication to professional development highlight his passion for the industry and his commitment to providing exceptional guest service.
Keanu Borrageiro
Bosun
Time Onboard M/Y Thumper: Debut Season
Previous Yachts: N/A
Born and raised in the South of France, Kevin developed a deep connection to the coast and a passion for sports, particularly beach volleyball. His dedication earned him the honour of representing his country professionally for over six years. His athletic career instilled discipline, resilience, and a strong work ethic, which became the foundation for his future. After an injury ended his volleyball career, Kevin pursued a Master’s degree in Commercial Strategy and Innovation, broadening his skill set and strategic mindset. Always living by the sea, Kevin transitioned to the yachting industry, bringing a unique blend of dedication, adaptability, and problem-solving skills from his athletic and business background. His experience in competitive sports has equipped him with the ability to work under pressure, collaborate with teams, and thrive in dynamic environments. Kevin’s passion for the sea and commitment to excellence make him a valuable asset to any crew, ready to contribute to an unforgettable guest experience.
Kevin Massue
Deckhand
Time Onboard M/Y Thumper: Debut Season
Previous Yachts: M/Y Corinthian (40m), M/Y Alfa (70m), M/Y Galene (55m), M/Y Papa (55m), M/Y Moskito (55m), M/Y Jacozmai (55m), M/Y Hydra (55m)
Meet John, originally from South Shields in the UK, he has always been drawn to the sea, a connection fostered by his coastal upbringing. With a deep love for adventure and exploration, his hobbies include riding his motorbike, diving, and running - activities that reflect his vibrant, active lifestyle. Following in his father’s footsteps, John began his career at just 16 with a cadetship in the merchant navy. Through dedication and hard work, he earned his engineering degree and license by age 19, launching an impressive career. He then spent nine years with BP Shipping, gaining invaluable experience working on tanker ships around the world. Four years ago, John transitioned into the yachting industry, bringing his extensive maritime knowledge to a variety of vessels. As Chief Engineer aboard M/Y THUMPER, he combines technical expertise with a proactive mindset, ensuring the yacht operates at peak performance. He is dedicated to continuous improvement and fosters a collaborative, efficient team environment. John’s wealth of experience, strong problem-solving skills, and commitment to excellence make him a vital asset to the smooth operation of the yacht.
John Brimble
Chief engineer