Maggie comes from the beautiful Aotearoa, New Zealand. Being raised by the beach, and spending lots of time on the ocean, she was naturally drawn to continue this lifestyle abroad.
After completing a degree in commerce with a postgraduate in education, she decided to take her skills to Europe and the world of yachting.
Maggie is passionate about making sure that all of ZULU’s guests are having a wonderful time and is able to bring the attention to detail required to bring out the best moments in a charter.
Every day is a new adventure for Maggie and she is always excited to explore the next destination. She will never miss an opportunity to jump in the ocean.
Maggie Bettle
Chief steward/ess
Axel was born in Denmark and takes every opportunity he can to travel and explore the various corners and cultures of the world.
Since a very young age, he has had a passion for classic cars, motorcycles and many other machines, which definitely steered him towards career in marine engineer.
Axel trained as an engineer cadet in the navy, before moving onto a variety of yachts. He now thrives on keeping our yacht running smoothly and safely.
Axel Njah
Chief engineer
Ture has his roots in the picturesque city of Stockholm, Sweden. Growing up close to the archipelago made him fall in love with the sea at an early age and that is ultimately what led him into the industry. Committed to a healthy lifestyle, he enjoys exercising and staying active.
Off-duty, he loves playing football, and exploring nature; he’ll never say no to a challenging hike. Music is also a big passion for him, whether it’s just listening or creating his own. This diverse range of interests ensures that he is always ready to provide an exceptional experience to all guests onboard.
Ture Blomgren
Deckhand
Tom was born and brought up in New Zealand, with an excitement for life and a craving for adventure.
Having lived close to the beach from a young age, Tom spends most of his time on the water fishing. Tom has been juggling between maritime school and working at sea, having spent the last year navigating around the South Pacific.
His hobbies include all water sports activities, diving, ball sports as well as exploring on land and riding motocross bikes.
Tom Cadell
First Officer
Captain Mark McDowell’s journey to the helm of some of the world’s most distinguished superyachts is a story of unexpected beginnings, relentless ambition, and cultivated expertise. Born in Frimley and raised in Essex—far from the traditional maritime sphere—his trajectory was forever changed at age 18, when his father entrusted him with co-skippering the family yacht through the Mediterranean. What began as a summer voyage swiftly evolved into a lifelong vocation.
Driven by an unwavering commitment to mastery, Mark pursued his maritime education while simultaneously ascending the ranks of the yachting world. His dedication culminated in achieving the RMI Master Unlimited certification.
With over 20 years of global experience, Captain McDowell has curated an extraordinary navigational résumé. He has led voyages through some of the most iconic cruising grounds—the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Bahamas—as well as charted courses through remote and challenging territories, including the Baltic Sea, Southeast Asia, the North Atlantic, and the expanse of both the Pacific and Indian Oceans.
Now in his early forties, Captain McDowell has logged more miles than many accomplish in a lifetime. His leadership is defined by operational precision, discretion, and a meticulous focus on safety and service excellence. His portfolio spans vessels ranging from 45 to 95 meters, and he is widely respected in the industry for his calm authority and exemplary track record.
At the helm, Captain McDowell commands not only the vessel but the guest experience. He leads a handpicked team of young, dynamic professionals whose enthusiasm is matched only by their technical skill and attention to detail. Under his direction, guests can expect an elevated yachting experience—seamless, bespoke, and defined by world-class hospitality.
Whether navigating azure Mediterranean coastlines or the most secluded corners of the globe, Captain Mark McDowell delivers a rare blend of expertise, elegance, and quiet confidence that has become synonymous with elite yachting.
Mark McDowell
Captain
David grew up in the south of France and has been working at sea since the age of 19 years old, operating in both the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.
In his 15 years at sea, he has acquired extensive knowledge and solid experience on board different vessels in many different parts of the world. He has worked his way up from a junior deckhand through all the ranks to become a captain, working on a list of high-profile vessels.
Prior to joining ZULU, David commanded many vessels including 44-meter Checkmate, 42-meter Kanga and many others.
Having been a captain for 8 years now, David can guarantee a tailored experience for all his guests and will ensure that your time onboard is unique and remains an unforgettable adventure.
David Duncan
Captain
Callum grew up on the Gold Coast, home to some of Australia’s most iconic beaches. He began his culinary journey training for three years at a renowned hotel in the heart of the city before venturing across the globe to Canada. There, he spent a year learning the art of sushi under a master Japanese chef and another year honing his craft at the legendary Fairmont Chateau in Whistler.
Callum specializes in Japanese, Thai, contemporary Australian, Spanish, Mexican, and Mediterranean cuisines. His diverse experience and passion for global flavours shine through in every dish he creates.
When he’s not in the kitchen, Callum is all about the outdoors — shredding the slopes in winter, hiking the mountains in summer, and embracing his deep love for the ocean all year round.
Callum Bergwerf
Chef
Willow grew up in the stunning East Coast of New Zealand — the first place in the world to greet the sun each day. Living by the ocean sparked a deep love for both the sea and the sunshine from an early age.
She spent two incredible summers in New York working as a lifeguard at a summer camp for underprivileged children. This experience fuelled her passion for connecting with people and embracing new adventures.
Willow strives at making sure that our guests are having a wonderful time, she can bring the attention to detail required to bring out the best moments in a charter.
Always eager to explore, Willow loves uncovering hidden gems and browsing local markets wherever she goes. She keeps an active lifestyle with swimming, yoga, and running which keeps her bucket full!
Willow Johnston
Stewardess