Name: Malcom Fordham
Nationality: South African/Zambian
Position: Chief engineer
Position details:
Languages: Not specified
Description: Born in Zambia and raised between South Africa and Florida, Malcolm brings 19 years of yachting experience, extensive technical knowledge and a remarkably hands-on approach to his role as Chief Engineer.
Malcolm began his yachting career on deck before naturally progressing into engineering, where his ability to solve just about any problem quickly earned him a reputation as the “fixer of everything.” Behind the scenes, he plays an essential role in keeping the yacht running safely and seamlessly, ensuring that everything from the most complex machinery to the guest comforts of perfectly chilled air conditioning and hot showers operates exactly as it should.
Safety is equally important to Malcolm. Before yachting, he served as an operational medic in the South African Defense Force, giving him valuable real-life medical experience. He is also an experienced Divemaster and former commercial diver, adding another dimension to his knowledge and confidence on and around the water.
Definitely not your average engineer, Malcolm is known for his infectious laugh, welcoming smile and easygoing nature. Highly approachable and always happy to engage with guests, he brings warmth and personality to a role that is often behind the scenes.
A true waterman, Malcolm has travelled extensively throughout the South Pacific, including Tahiti and Fiji, as well as the BVI and Caribbean. When not keeping everything onboard running smoothly, he enjoys diving, kite surfing, fishing and golf—and is also a keen baker.
Malcolm looks forward to welcoming guests aboard with a big smile, a contagious laugh, and the reassurance that everything is working exactly as it should.
Previous Yachts: LADY B, DOMANI, GENE CHASSER, CV9
Name: Shaun Byers
Nationality: Australian
Position: Chef
Position details:
Languages: Not specified
Description: With more than 25 years as a professional chef, Shaun brings an impressive international culinary background and genuine passion for food to PAPER MOON. He has worked alongside Captain Peter for over 10 years, developing a trusted partnership and an intuitive understanding of the high level of service and guest experience they want to create onboard.
Shaun’s repertoire spans French, Italian and Asian cuisine, supported by specialist training at the Tokyo Sushi Academy, pastry training in France and studies in molecular gastronomy. He is also experienced with kosher cuisine and confidently caters to vegan, gluten-free and other dietary requirements. From sophisticated multi-course dinners and beautifully prepared sushi to homemade breads, pastries and relaxed family favorites, Shaun enjoys tailoring every menu to his guests.
A passionate traveler, Shaun continues to expand his culinary knowledge by seeking out leading Michelin-starred restaurants around the world. Away from the galley, he is a Divemaster who loves scuba diving, snowboarding and music.
Calm, engaging and naturally positive, Shaun is as memorable for his personality as his food. Ask him how he is on any given day and you’ll invariably hear his signature response: “I’m always good"
Previous Yachts: DOMANI, A2, WHITE ROSE OF DRACHS, FABULOUS, IMPROMPTU, H BACCHUS
Name: Kobus Kraft
Nationality: South African/American
Position: First Officer
Position details:
Languages: Not specified
Description: Kobus brings 12 years of yachting experience to PAPER MOON, having cruised extensively throughout the U.S. East Coast, Bahamas and Caribbean. Most recently, he served as Captain of the 87’ M/Y MUSE with Fleet Miami, cruising between Miami, the Bahamas and the U.S. East Coast.
Growing up on a sugarcane and cattle farm in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, Kobus developed a love of the water from an early age, building rafts with his brother to explore the local rivers. Today, that enthusiasm is very much part of his life onboard.
As Chief Officer and Safety Officer, Kobus plays an integral role in the safe operation of PAPER MOON and leads an enthusiastic deck team always ready with the water toys, tenders and guest activities.
Fishing is a particular passion, and Kobus brings both skill and infectious enthusiasm to days spent on the water. For guests who love to fish—or would like to give it a try—Kobus is your guy.
When he isn’t on the water, golf is another lifelong passion. A highly accomplished player, Kobus played golf at provincial level in South Africa and still jokes that the only career that might tempt him away from yachting would be joining the PGA Tour!
Previous Yachts: AT LAST, FLEET MIAMI, MUSE
Name: Skyler Klomfass
Nationality: South African
Position: Stewardess
Position details: 2nd Stewardess
Languages: Not specified
Description: Skye is a warm, energetic and personable Stewardess and certified masseuse from South Africa. With experience working on yachts in both the Mediterranean and Caribbean, she brings a strong understanding of life onboard and a genuine passion for creating relaxed and memorable guest experiences. Growing up surrounded by nature, Skye developed a love for travel, adventure and meeting new people. Her creative eye, positive energy and adaptable nature shine through in everything she does, from beautifully styled tables to thoughtful touches that make each guest feel special. Skye provides attentive, professional service while bringing a warm and welcoming presences onboard
Previous Yachts: FOX
Name: Michaela Hamill
Nationality: United States / Australian
Position: Bosun
Position details:
Languages: Not specified
Description: Born on the East Coast of the United States and raised in Sydney, Australia, Michaela grew up in a sailing family and has always felt at home on the water. Now, as Bosun aboard PAPER MOON, she leads the deck team with confidence, infectious energy and an unmistakable smile.
Before yachting, Michaela was a professional cheerleader and head coach, experiences that developed the leadership, teamwork and discipline she brings to her role today. With more than five years of deck experience, she has cruised extensively throughout the South Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, the Mediterranean, Adriatic and Caribbean.
Highly active and passionate about watersports, Michaela loves diving, e-foiling and just about any opportunity to get out on the water. She holds her RYA Personal Watercraft qualification and particularly enjoys helping guests feel confident while discovering new activities and having fun on the water.
Fitness is a major part of Michaela’s life. A dedicated runner who has completed marathons, she brings the same determination and positive attitude to everything she does onboard.
Approachable, capable and always ready for the next adventure, Michaela combines strong leadership with a naturally fun personality. Whether she is coordinating the deck team, preparing the toys for a day on the water or joining guests in the action, her enthusiasm is contagious — and that brilliant smile is rarely far away.
Previous Yachts: ARTEFACT, CALLIOPE, ALEGRE, 4A, LUMIR, RINO
Name: Peter Pexton
Nationality: American/South African
Position: Captain
Position details:
Languages: Not specified
Description: With over 30 years in yachting, Peter is renowned in the charter industry for his warm, personable approach and exceptional ability to create memorable guest experiences. His genuine enjoyment of his guests, combined with impressive worldwide cruising knowledge, has earned him a loyal following of repeat charter clients.
At the heart of Peter’s success is his ability to bring together an outstanding crew. He has built a close-knit team that is professional, happy and genuinely welcoming, with several members working alongside him for many years. This strong sense of family onboard creates the relaxed, warm atmosphere that guests immediately feel.
With more than 200,000 nautical miles, circumnavigation and over a dozen Atlantic crossings behind him, Peter brings a wealth of experience to every charter. Safety and comfort are always paramount, while his approachable nature and attention to each guest ensure that life aboard PAPER MOON feels effortless, personal and very special.
Previous Yachts: DOMANI, BACCHUS, IMPROMPTU, HALARA, AMORE
Name: KAY DE KOCK
Nationality: Dutch
Position: Deckhand
Position details:
Languages: Not specified
Description: Kay grew up in Oss in the Netherlands, close to where some of the world’s most impressive Dutch yachts are built. Watching these extraordinary vessels take shape first sparked his interest in yachting and eventually inspired him to make the industry his career.
Bubbly, outgoing and always smiling, Kay has a natural ability to connect with guests. Having travelled extensively through Asia and Australia, and with a background in hospitality and events, he loves helping guests make the most of every destination.
Affectionately considered PAPER MOON’s “Entertainment Manager and Great Explorer,” Kay is always looking for ways for guests to experience more—whether discovering a hidden beach, exploring ashore, finding a great local adventure or introducing guests to a new activity.
A true team player, Kay works closely with the deck crew to have the tenders, toys and watersports equipment ready for action. Whether helping guests onto the water, planning an adventure ashore or discovering the next great place to explore, Kay brings energy, enthusiasm and a big smile to every day aboard PAPER MOON.
Name: Jaycee Head
Nationality: British/South African
Position: Chief steward/ess
Position details: Chief Stewardess
Languages: Not specified
Description: Jaycee brings a high level of experience aboard 42–50m motor yachts along with a genuine passion for hospitality and creating memorable experiences for guests.
Attentive, caring and naturally positive, Jaycee takes pride in ensuring every detail is thoughtfully considered, making each charter feel personal and special. She particularly enjoys creating beautiful tablescapes, crafting cocktails and bringing creativity to every aspect of the guest experience.
For guests aboard PAPER MOON, Jaycee’s warm smile and delightful approach set the tone for a relaxed and welcoming experience from the moment you step aboard. Her exceptional attention to detail, intuitive approach to hospitality and commitment to the highest level of service ensure that every guest feels genuinely cared for throughout their time on board.
Outside of yachting, Jaycee enjoys exploring, reading and keeping active through fitness. When not at sea, she lives on the coast near Cape Town.
Previous yachts: ASANTE I and ASANTE II, NOAH
Name: Mariana Perez
Nationality: Mexican
Position: Stewardess
Position details: 3rd Stewardess
Languages: Not specified
Description: Mariana brings valuable experience from yachts ranging from 36–77m, with a strong background in housekeeping, laundry and guest service. With meticulous attention to detail and exceptionally high standards, she plays an essential role in the smooth running and immaculate presentation of all three levels of PAPER MOON’s interior. From guest areas and cabins to linens, wardrobes and the many details behind the scenes, Mariana ensures that everything is beautifully maintained and always ready for guests. She also enjoys assisting with food and beverage service when needed.
Originally from the coastal city of Ensenada, Mexico, Mariana has a natural connection to the sea and a genuine love of travel and discovering different cultures. Her bright smile and gentle, soft-spoken presence complement her thoughtful approach to service, and she takes great pride in helping guests feel comfortable and cared for.
Outside of yachting, Mariana enjoys travel, music and the arts. A particularly special talent is playing the violin.
Previous Yachts: STEEL, NANA , SEA NEVER ,SAY NEVER
Malcom Fordham — Chief engineer (South African/Zambian)
Born in Zambia and raised between South Africa and Florida, Malcolm brings 19 years of yachting experience, extensive technical knowledge and a remarkably hands-on approach to his role as Chief Engineer.
Malcolm began his yachting career on deck before naturally progressing into engineering, where his ability to solve just about any problem quickly earned him a reputation as the “fixer of everything.” Behind the scenes, he plays an essential role in keeping the yacht running safely and seamlessly, ensuring that everything from the most complex machinery to the guest comforts of perfectly chilled air conditioning and hot showers operates exactly as it should.
Safety is equally important to Malcolm. Before yachting, he served as an operational medic in the South African Defense Force, giving him valuable real-life medical experience. He is also an experienced Divemaster and former commercial diver, adding another dimension to his knowledge and confidence on and around the water.
Definitely not your average engineer, Malcolm is known for his infectious laugh, welcoming smile and easygoing nature. Highly approachable and always happy to engage with guests, he brings warmth and personality to a role that is often behind the scenes.
A true waterman, Malcolm has travelled extensively throughout the South Pacific, including Tahiti and Fiji, as well as the BVI and Caribbean. When not keeping everything onboard running smoothly, he enjoys diving, kite surfing, fishing and golf—and is also a keen baker.
Malcolm looks forward to welcoming guests aboard with a big smile, a contagious laugh, and the reassurance that everything is working exactly as it should.
Previous Yachts: LADY B, DOMANI, GENE CHASSER, CV9
Shaun Byers — Chef (Australian)
With more than 25 years as a professional chef, Shaun brings an impressive international culinary background and genuine passion for food to PAPER MOON. He has worked alongside Captain Peter for over 10 years, developing a trusted partnership and an intuitive understanding of the high level of service and guest experience they want to create onboard.
Shaun’s repertoire spans French, Italian and Asian cuisine, supported by specialist training at the Tokyo Sushi Academy, pastry training in France and studies in molecular gastronomy. He is also experienced with kosher cuisine and confidently caters to vegan, gluten-free and other dietary requirements. From sophisticated multi-course dinners and beautifully prepared sushi to homemade breads, pastries and relaxed family favorites, Shaun enjoys tailoring every menu to his guests.
A passionate traveler, Shaun continues to expand his culinary knowledge by seeking out leading Michelin-starred restaurants around the world. Away from the galley, he is a Divemaster who loves scuba diving, snowboarding and music.
Calm, engaging and naturally positive, Shaun is as memorable for his personality as his food. Ask him how he is on any given day and you’ll invariably hear his signature response: “I’m always good"
Previous Yachts: DOMANI, A2, WHITE ROSE OF DRACHS, FABULOUS, IMPROMPTU, H BACCHUS
Kobus Kraft — First Officer (South African/American)
Kobus brings 12 years of yachting experience to PAPER MOON, having cruised extensively throughout the U.S. East Coast, Bahamas and Caribbean. Most recently, he served as Captain of the 87’ M/Y MUSE with Fleet Miami, cruising between Miami, the Bahamas and the U.S. East Coast.
Growing up on a sugarcane and cattle farm in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, Kobus developed a love of the water from an early age, building rafts with his brother to explore the local rivers. Today, that enthusiasm is very much part of his life onboard.
As Chief Officer and Safety Officer, Kobus plays an integral role in the safe operation of PAPER MOON and leads an enthusiastic deck team always ready with the water toys, tenders and guest activities.
Fishing is a particular passion, and Kobus brings both skill and infectious enthusiasm to days spent on the water. For guests who love to fish—or would like to give it a try—Kobus is your guy.
When he isn’t on the water, golf is another lifelong passion. A highly accomplished player, Kobus played golf at provincial level in South Africa and still jokes that the only career that might tempt him away from yachting would be joining the PGA Tour!
Previous Yachts: AT LAST, FLEET MIAMI, MUSE
Skyler Klomfass — Stewardess (South African)
Skye is a warm, energetic and personable Stewardess and certified masseuse from South Africa. With experience working on yachts in both the Mediterranean and Caribbean, she brings a strong understanding of life onboard and a genuine passion for creating relaxed and memorable guest experiences. Growing up surrounded by nature, Skye developed a love for travel, adventure and meeting new people. Her creative eye, positive energy and adaptable nature shine through in everything she does, from beautifully styled tables to thoughtful touches that make each guest feel special. Skye provides attentive, professional service while bringing a warm and welcoming presences onboard
Previous Yachts: FOX
Michaela Hamill — Bosun (United States / Australian)
Born on the East Coast of the United States and raised in Sydney, Australia, Michaela grew up in a sailing family and has always felt at home on the water. Now, as Bosun aboard PAPER MOON, she leads the deck team with confidence, infectious energy and an unmistakable smile.
Before yachting, Michaela was a professional cheerleader and head coach, experiences that developed the leadership, teamwork and discipline she brings to her role today. With more than five years of deck experience, she has cruised extensively throughout the South Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, the Mediterranean, Adriatic and Caribbean.
Highly active and passionate about watersports, Michaela loves diving, e-foiling and just about any opportunity to get out on the water. She holds her RYA Personal Watercraft qualification and particularly enjoys helping guests feel confident while discovering new activities and having fun on the water.
Fitness is a major part of Michaela’s life. A dedicated runner who has completed marathons, she brings the same determination and positive attitude to everything she does onboard.
Approachable, capable and always ready for the next adventure, Michaela combines strong leadership with a naturally fun personality. Whether she is coordinating the deck team, preparing the toys for a day on the water or joining guests in the action, her enthusiasm is contagious — and that brilliant smile is rarely far away.
Previous Yachts: ARTEFACT, CALLIOPE, ALEGRE, 4A, LUMIR, RINO
Peter Pexton — Captain (American/South African)
With over 30 years in yachting, Peter is renowned in the charter industry for his warm, personable approach and exceptional ability to create memorable guest experiences. His genuine enjoyment of his guests, combined with impressive worldwide cruising knowledge, has earned him a loyal following of repeat charter clients.
At the heart of Peter’s success is his ability to bring together an outstanding crew. He has built a close-knit team that is professional, happy and genuinely welcoming, with several members working alongside him for many years. This strong sense of family onboard creates the relaxed, warm atmosphere that guests immediately feel.
With more than 200,000 nautical miles, circumnavigation and over a dozen Atlantic crossings behind him, Peter brings a wealth of experience to every charter. Safety and comfort are always paramount, while his approachable nature and attention to each guest ensure that life aboard PAPER MOON feels effortless, personal and very special.
Previous Yachts: DOMANI, BACCHUS, IMPROMPTU, HALARA, AMORE
KAY DE KOCK — Deckhand (Dutch)
Kay grew up in Oss in the Netherlands, close to where some of the world’s most impressive Dutch yachts are built. Watching these extraordinary vessels take shape first sparked his interest in yachting and eventually inspired him to make the industry his career.
Bubbly, outgoing and always smiling, Kay has a natural ability to connect with guests. Having travelled extensively through Asia and Australia, and with a background in hospitality and events, he loves helping guests make the most of every destination.
Affectionately considered PAPER MOON’s “Entertainment Manager and Great Explorer,” Kay is always looking for ways for guests to experience more—whether discovering a hidden beach, exploring ashore, finding a great local adventure or introducing guests to a new activity.
A true team player, Kay works closely with the deck crew to have the tenders, toys and watersports equipment ready for action. Whether helping guests onto the water, planning an adventure ashore or discovering the next great place to explore, Kay brings energy, enthusiasm and a big smile to every day aboard PAPER MOON.
Jaycee Head — Chief steward/ess (British/South African)
Jaycee brings a high level of experience aboard 42–50m motor yachts along with a genuine passion for hospitality and creating memorable experiences for guests.
Attentive, caring and naturally positive, Jaycee takes pride in ensuring every detail is thoughtfully considered, making each charter feel personal and special. She particularly enjoys creating beautiful tablescapes, crafting cocktails and bringing creativity to every aspect of the guest experience.
For guests aboard PAPER MOON, Jaycee’s warm smile and delightful approach set the tone for a relaxed and welcoming experience from the moment you step aboard. Her exceptional attention to detail, intuitive approach to hospitality and commitment to the highest level of service ensure that every guest feels genuinely cared for throughout their time on board.
Outside of yachting, Jaycee enjoys exploring, reading and keeping active through fitness. When not at sea, she lives on the coast near Cape Town.
Previous yachts: ASANTE I and ASANTE II, NOAH
Mariana Perez — Stewardess (Mexican)
Mariana brings valuable experience from yachts ranging from 36–77m, with a strong background in housekeeping, laundry and guest service. With meticulous attention to detail and exceptionally high standards, she plays an essential role in the smooth running and immaculate presentation of all three levels of PAPER MOON’s interior. From guest areas and cabins to linens, wardrobes and the many details behind the scenes, Mariana ensures that everything is beautifully maintained and always ready for guests. She also enjoys assisting with food and beverage service when needed.
Originally from the coastal city of Ensenada, Mexico, Mariana has a natural connection to the sea and a genuine love of travel and discovering different cultures. Her bright smile and gentle, soft-spoken presence complement her thoughtful approach to service, and she takes great pride in helping guests feel comfortable and cared for.
Outside of yachting, Mariana enjoys travel, music and the arts. A particularly special talent is playing the violin.
Previous Yachts: STEEL, NANA , SEA NEVER ,SAY NEVER