Name: Nicolaas Terblanche
Nationality: South African
Position: Captain
Position details: Captain (Rotational)
Languages: Not specified
Description: Previous Yachts
» M/Y SANLORENZO (46m)
» M/Y PURSUIT (38m)
» M/Y HUNTRESS (60m)
» M/Y MEAMINA (60m)
» M/Y FOUNTAINHEAD (88m)
» M/Y LADY SHEILA (45m)
»M/Y PARTY GIRL (45m)
» M/Y FRANCINE (46m)
» M/Y KANALOA (48m)
» M/Y BELLA VITA (60m)
Interests
» Surfing
» Tennis
» Golf
» Free Diving
Captain Nicolaas brings over 18 years of experience in the yachting industry, having travelled extensively across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Bahamas, and beyond. Growing up in Cape Town, South Africa, his passion for the ocean began at an early age, surfing from 12 and diving from 15, which inspired him to pursue a career at sea. Known for his calm leadership style and approachable nature, Nicolaas values teamwork, respect, and creating a positive onboard environment. His extensive operational experience and love for the ocean allow him to provide guests and owners with a safe, seamless, and unforgettable yachting experience.
Name: Tiaan Du Plessis
Nationality: South African
Position: First Officer
Position details: First Officer (Rotational)
Languages: Not specified
Description: Previous Yachts
» M/Y ALFA NERO (81m)
» M/Y SKYFALL (57.9m)
» M/Y INEVITABLE (30m)
Interests
» Golf
» Cricket
» Rugby
Born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa, Tiaan has always had a passion for sport, travel, and the ocean. He grew up playing semi professional cricket which helped shaped his work ethic, discipline, and team-first mentality. After joining the yachting industry in 2018, Tiaan has spent the past eight years building his experience while exploring some of the most remote and fascinating parts of the world including an expedition to Antarctica. Outside of yachting, Tiaan is a passionate golfer and has achieved a lowest handicap of 0.3.
Tiaan’s long-term goal is to become a captain and lead a vessel with a positive, professional, and safety-focused culture. He take’s pride in being hardworking and dependable and is committed to maintaining the highest standards onboard while helping create memorable experiences for owners and guests alike.
Name: Mattthew Elvin-Jensen
Nationality: South African/Danish
Position: First Officer
Position details: First Officer (Rotational)
Languages: Not specified
Description: Previous yachts
» M/Y NORTH STAR (63m)
» M/Y ADDICTION (60m)
» M/Y BELLA VITA (60m)
Interests
» Surfing
» Fishing
» Spearfishing
» Off-roading
Before starting his yachting career, Mathew studied at the University of Cape Town, where he earned a BCom degreein Marketing and Economics. In early 2019, he decided to follow his passion for the ocean. He flew to Palma and started working towards his first deckhand role, spending his free time taking courses and building experience. He passed his MCA OOW 3000 Ton license at the beginning of 2024. Mathew has cruised around the Mediterranean, US, Caribbean, Bahamas, and Costa Rica, gaining plenty of hands-on experience along the way. He grew up in Noordhoek, a relaxed beach town near Cape Town’s Cape of Good Hope. That’s where his love for the ocean first started, surrounded by marine parks, reserves, and incredible coastlines. After doing two ski seasons in the US during university holidays, he also developed a deep interest in mountain adventures, whether it’s hiking or snowboarding. Mathews got a deep passion for the industry where his hardworking, professional and approachable attitude makes him a great crew member.
Name: Jonathan Staley
Nationality: South African
Position: Head Chef
Position details: Head Chef (Rotational)
Languages: Not specified
Description: Jonathan began his career as a chef in the Navy at age 19 after which he traveled the world working in London fine dining restaurant scene for 6 years before moving back to South Africa to take up the reigns of the Winchester Mansions Hotel and the fine dining restaurant Harveys. During his five years at Harveys he implemented initiatives like the Sunday champagne jazz brunches and the wine paring gourmet evenings with famous South African wine makers. During his time at Harveys he traveled abroad to France and Italy each year for a stage at various 5 star plus hotels and Michelin starred restaurants like the Hotel Gran Palazzo della Fonte in Fiuggi, Italy and the famous le St Paul in Vence, Côte d’Azur.
In 2008 Jonathan made the decision to move to Spain and advance his career whilst also enjoying his passion of sailing and thus began working on super yachts. Having travelled the world, Jonathan has developed a diverse skill set in various styles of cuisine like Middle Eastern, Sushi, British, classical French, Caribbean and pacific rim fusion.
Interests:
Hiking, Diving, Surfing, Mountain Biking, Archery
Previous Yachts:
S/Y KAMAXITHA (55M)
M/Y EMINENCE (78M)
Name: Amber Gibson
Nationality: South African
Position: Chief steward/ess
Position details: Chief Stewardess (Rotational)
Languages: Not specified
Description: Previous Yachts
» M/Y SCORPION (46m)
» M/Y BABAS (55m)
» M/Y LAMMOUCHE (46m)
» M/Y PLVS VLTRA (74m)
Interests
» Fitness
» Coffee
» Travelling
» Long walks on the beach
Amber grew up along South Africa’s beautiful Garden Route, between the Indian Ocean and the Tsitsikamma Mountains. After her studies, she spent three years teaching English in Southeast Asia, where her love for travel, different cultures, and unique experiences grew. With her easy-going personality, gentle nature, and good sense of humour, Amber loves making guests feel at home and well looked after. In her downtime, she enjoys curling up with a good book.
Onboard, Amber enjoys crafting delious cocktails, creating beautiful table settings, and adding thoughtful touches to make every guest experience memorable.
Name: Chloe Nicolaou
Nationality: South African
Position: Chief steward/ess
Position details: Chief Stewardess (Rotational)
Languages: Not specified
Description: Previous Yachts
» M/Y CARPE DIEM (46m)
» M/Y ONE MORE TOY (50m)
» M/Y BALAJU (45m)
» M/Y WAKU (63m)
Interests
» Travelling
» Biofeedback
» Yoga
» Coffee
Chloe is originally from Johannesburg, but now resides in a little surfer town called Ballito on the East Coast of South Africa. After completing art college, Chloe moved to London where she explored different careers such as working as an au pair and as a pit girl for British Superbikes. It was during her travels that Chloe stumbled across the yachting industry, and has never looked back since.
After 18 years of adventuring around the world, Chloe’s passsion is still as strong as ever. She is full of knowledge and her experience is a proven asset to any interior team.
Name: Jamie Mc Hardy
Nationality: South African
Position: Stewardess
Position details: 4th Stewardess
Languages: Not specified
Description: Previous Yachts
» M/Y ANNA STAR (50m)
» M/Y EVELYN P (37m)
Interests/Languages
» Scuba Diving
» Swimming
» Drawing
Jamie grew up in Hartbeespoort, South Africa, where weekends were spent hiking and enjoying life on the dam. Surrounded by nature, she developed an early appreciation for the outdoors and a natural connection to the water. An active athlete, she played first-team water polo which helped shape her strong work ethic and team-oriented mindset. At 17, Jamie relocated with her family to Sarasota, Florida, where her passion for outdoor living continued to grow. She was introduced to the yachting industry through her older brother and twin sister, both of whom had already established careers in the field. Inspired by their experiences, Jamie developed a strong desire to pursue it herself. With a lifelong affinity for the water and a growing professional focus, Jamie is committed to building a successful career in yachting.
Name: Corey Daly
Nationality: British
Position: Chief engineer
Position details: Chief Engineer (Rotational)
Languages: Not specified
Description: Previous Yachts
» M/Y DILBAR (156m)
» M/Y CHOPI CHOPI (80m)
Interests
» Golf
» Soccer
Corey is from Newport, South Wales in the UK. He is from a big Seafaring family, as his Dad was a local Tugboat Skipper and he grew up going to work with him in the port, which sparked his interest in the Marine world from a young age. He has many years of Engineering experience and earned his Marine Engineering Qualification from Warsash Maritime Academy in 2014. Corey has worked in the Mediterranean and Caribbean seas and has ventured onboard World Class Yachts such as Dilbar and Chopi Chopi. Corey loves a good challenge and is wildly passionate about engineering, and an off the beaten track itinerary. He is readily available for anything AV/IT Engineering related needs.
Name: Nicolas Mavridis
Nationality: South African
Position: Deckhand
Position details: Deckhand
Languages: Not specified
Description: Interests
» Health & Fitness
» Golf
» DJing
» Football
Nicholas is our resident Aussie onboard, hailing from Melbourne and growing up on the crystal clear waters of the beaches in his home town, he is 22 years old and full of optimism. Starting his yachting career at the beginning of this year, he is ready to tackle a busy season on Scott Free giving the guests the best experience on the water toys. Growing up he has always been active and living an outdoors life whether that’s playing football from six years old to enjoying playing golf, working out in the gym and fishing and boating with friends and family. He also has a big passion for playing music and DJing. Some of Nicholas’ family are also Greek with some living in parts of the Aegean Sea, having spent time on these islands during holidays, he feels as though yachting has brought him back to life at Sea.
Name: Natasha Cochran
Nationality: Zimbabwean
Position: Stewardess
Position details: 3rd Stewardess
Languages: Not specified
Description: Previous Yachts
» M/Y ABUNDANCE (32m)
Interests
» Horse Riding
» Drawing
» Painting
Natasha joins M/Y SCOTT FREE as the 3rd Stewardess, bringing experience as a sole stew and deck/stew on sailing yachts up to 32 meters. Born in Zimbabwe and raised in Mauritius, she later moved to London where she spent four years in real estate before being inspired by her father’s maritime background to pursue a career in yachting. She speaks English and conversational French and has cruised a variety of waters in previous roles. In her free time, Natasha enjoys reading, outdoor activities, exercise, painting and drawing, and horse riding.
Name: Tristan Van Aardt
Nationality: South African
Position: Second Officer
Position details: 2nd Officer
Languages: Not specified
Description: Previous Yachts
» M/Y TRIPLE 7 (68m)
» M/Y QUAMARINA (51m)
» M/Y CYAN (51m)
Interests
» Wakeboarding
» Photograpy
» Diving
» Surfing
Tristan grew up in the small coastal town of Plettenberg Bay, South Africa. Where his parents have owned a Dive Centre for over 30 years. He grew up working for his parents and naturally grew up loving the ocean. He joined the industry straight after high school and hasn’t looked back as he discovered his passion for yachts during the sardine run in the Transkei. Tristan is very into his photography and videography, and using his drone. Utilising his skills to capture the sentimental moments onboard for our guests.
Name: Luc Lenferna
Nationality: South African
Position: Deckhand
Position details: Deckhand
Languages: Not specified
Description: Previous Yachts
» M/Y WAVE (45m)
» M/Y M3 (45m)
Interests
» Golf
» Tennis
» Diving
Luc was born in Johannesburg, South Africa but primarily spent most of his time in Mauritius, where living by the ocean fostered a strong and lasting connection to the sea. This environment shaped his passion for travel, exploration, and a lifestyle centered around the water, ultimately leading him to pursue a career in yachting. Active and disciplined, Luc maintains a strong focus on fitness and enjoys a wide range of sports, including golf, tennis, skiing, and diving. He also has a keen interest in wildlife and outdoor adventure. Whether on land or at sea, he approaches each day with energy and enthusiasm, consistently making the most of every opportunity.
Name: Enya Van Niekerk
Nationality: South African
Position: Stewardess
Position details: 5th Stewardess
Languages: Not specified
Description: Interests
» Kitesurfing
» Travel
» Fitness
» Videography
» Diving
» Swimming
Enya grew up in Blouberg, South Africa. Having grown up in a coastal environment, she developed a strong passion for the outdoors and a deep connection to the ocean. Her appreciation for a water-based lifestyle led to her excelling in activities such as surfing, swimming, diving, and kitesurfing. She completed a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Stellenbosch University, equipping her with a solid academic foundation. Enya’s interest in the yachting industry began after her first sailing holiday with her family in Greece, which inspired her to pursue a career at sea. Known for her positive energy and personable nature, Enya thrives in team environments and enjoys engaging with people from diverse backgrounds. She brings a proactive attitude, strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn, making her a valuable addition to any crew.
Name: Arno Gouws
Nationality: South African
Position: Captain
Position details: Captain (Rotational)
Languages: Not specified
Description: Previous Yachts
» M/Y FOUNTAINHEAD (88m)
» M/Y MYSKY (51m)
» M/Y AQUAMARINA(51m)
Interests
» Skydiving
» Surfing
» Mountaineering
» Martial arts
Arno Grew up on a farm in the middle of South Africa and after completing high school attended Stellenbosch University. After university he moved abroad to the United Kingdom where after 4 years he decided to try his hand at sailing. He never looked back since. Starting on sailing yachts he kept studying and progressing and eventually made the switch to Motor yachts.
Name: Graeme Scott
Nationality: South African
Position: Bosun
Position details: Bosun
Languages: Not specified
Description: Previous Yachts
» M/Y ODESSA II (74m)
Interests
» Singing
» History
» Formula 1
Graeme is from Cape Town, South Africa, where he developed a strong passion for sport, fitness, and an active outdoor lifestyle. He enjoys spending time in the gym, traveling, and staying connected with friends and family. With a naturally upbeat personality, Graeme brings energy and humor to any environment, always looking for opportunities to create memorable experiences and keep morale high. Graeme loves singing in the shower, on deck, and making dad jokes which keeps the crew giggling. Since entering the yachting industry three years ago, he has embraced the challenges and rewards of life at sea. Committed to long-term growth within the industry, Graeme has set his sights on progressing through the ranks, with the goal of becoming a chief officer.
Name: Collin Peters
Nationality: Canadian
Position: Chief engineer
Position details: Chief Engineer (Rotational)
Languages: Not specified
Description: Previous Yachts
» M/Y MYSKY (51M)
» M/Y DANCING HARE (58M
Interests
» Outdoors
» Hiking
» Cooking
Colin has joined Scott Free as the Chief Engineer in April 2026, bringing 21 years of yacht engineer experience. During his career, he has cruised extensively in the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Pacific on both Sail and Motor vessels ranging in size from 35 – 58 meters. Born in Canada but living in Spain for the last 15 years. He speaks English & Spanish, a fantastic compliment to worldwide cruising programs. In his free time Colin enjoys the outdoors, hiking with his wife and 2 small dogs, cooking, and travelling the world.
Name: Stephen Barret
Nationality: Scottish/Thai
Position: Engineer
Position details: 2nd Engineer (Rotational)
Languages: Not specified
Description: Previous Yachts
» M/Y LIMERENCE (53m)
» M/Y SOLARIS (140m)
» M/Y COCKTAIL (55m
Interests
» Foodie
» Staying Active
» Wakeboarding
Stephen is a global mix, born in Saudi Arabia to a Scottish and Thai background, but these days you’ll usually find him out at sea. Stephen is currently the second engineer and ensures that everything onboard runs smoothly. He is used to getting hands-on with all kinds of marine systems and technical troubleshooting.
When Stephen is off duty, he’s almost always finding an excuse to get outside. He’s big into wakeboarding and running and loves anything that can get him outdoors. To balance out the high-energy workouts and engine room shifts, he’s always ready to wind down with a good book.
Name: Joshua Kent
Nationality: South African
Position: Head Chef
Position details: Head Chef (Rotational)
Languages: Not specified
Description: Previous Yachts
» M/Y HAMPSHIRE LL
» M/V SHERPA
» M/Y WHITE ROSE OF DRACHS
» M/Y BARBARA
» M/Y QUEEN MIRI
» M/Y RAHIL
» M/Y HAYAMA
» M/Y BLUSH
» M/Y MISCHIEF
Josh brings over a decade of culinary experience at sea, combining a strong foundation in fine dining with a passion for creating memorable dining experiences onboard. His culinary journey began at 16 in his family’s guest house kitchen, before completing his Diploma in International Culinary Arts and Wine and refining his skills in professional kitchens. After discovering yachting, Josh quickly progressed through the ranks, gaining experience as a sole chef, sous chef, and Head Chef aboard yachts up to 70m.
Beyond the galley, Josh has continued to expand his expertise through teaching, entrepreneurship, and running his own micro bakery in Plettenberg Bay. Known for his creativity, attention to detail, and passion for fresh, thoughtfully crafted cuisine, he enjoys tailoring each dining experience to the preferences of owners and guests. An avid triathlete and endurance athlete, Josh brings the same discipline, energy, and dedication to his cooking as he does to his athletic pursuits.
Name: Neil Gonzalez
Nationality: British
Position: Chef
Position details: Sous Chef
Languages: Not specified
Description: Previous Yachts
» M/Y SOPHIA (90m)
Interests
» Gym
» Football (Chelsea fan)
» Cooking
Neil is from Southwest London, where his passion for cooking was inspired at a young age by his grandmother. Growing up in her kitchen, he developed a deep appreciation for food, with certain aromas still evoking those early memories. He went on to refine his skills at culinary college in Weybridge at the age of 16, thereafter transitioning to full-time roles by 18. He later spent four years in Sydney, Australia, gaining valuable experience in fine dining establishments and broadening his culinary perspective. Introduced to the yachting industry through a friend, Neil made the move from land-based kitchens to working at sea. Over the past year, he has embraced the dynamic nature of yachting, combining his professional training with a genuine passion for hospitality. He takes pride in creating memorable dining experiences and believes that exceptional food is at the heart of making people feel truly valued.
Name: Jennifer Raad
Nationality: South African
Position: Stewardess
Position details: 2nd Stewardess
Languages: Not specified
Description: Previous Yachts
» S/Y SARISSA (60m)
» M/Y PARSIFAL III (55m)
» M/Y CYAN (50m)
Interests
» Backpacking
» Nutrition / Fitness
» Watersports
» Hiking
Jennifer is from the vibrant city of Johannesburg, South Africa, where she studied Biomedical Science. Although raised inland, she developed a genuine appreciation for the water by spending most weekends with her family by the river. Her adventurous spirit eventually led her to Europe, where she began her career in the yachting industry. Known for her warm, attentive nature and strong work ethic, Jennifer takes pride in creating positive experiences for those around her. She especially enjoys that yachting gives you the opportunity to meet people from all different backgrounds, working alongside a diverse, multinational crew. Passionate about travel, she embraces every chance to experience new cultures and perspectives. Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys staying active and exploring creative outlets such as dancing and painting. She also has a strong interest in fitness, and nutrition, and hopes to one day pursue a career in the healthcare field.
Name: Billy Lazenby
Nationality: South African
Position: Deckhand
Position details: Deckhand
Languages: Not specified
Description: Previous Yachts
» M/Y AZTECA (50m)
Interests
» Surfing
» Cricket
» Photography
» Fashion
Spencer is from Cape Town, South Africa. He began his journey in the yachting industry straight out of high school. Growing up surrounded by the sea and mountains, he’s always been drawn to the outdoors – whether he’s surfing, playing golf, working out, or just spending time in nature. Fitness and staying active are important to Spencer and he enjoys keeping a healthy lifestyle both on and off the water. His passion for the ocean continues to grow every day he spends on it and yachting has only strengthened that connection.
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