Name: David Laird
Nationality: American
Position: Captain
Position details:
Languages: Not specified
Description: A 9th-generation Texan born and raised in Clear Lake on the Gulf Coast, I grew up fishing, sailing, and developing a deep love for the water. After earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a focus in Management and Accounting from Sam Houston State University, I spent five years in corporate accounting in the oil and gas industry before making the life-changing decision to pursue a career at sea—my true passion. I cashed in my 401K, moved to South Florida, and never looked back. I earned my Captain’s License and became a certified NAUI and PADI Dive Instructor, training in the Florida Keys. In 1999, I landed my first job on a yacht as a deckhand in the Caribbean, and soon after, joined my first charter vessel—a path I’ve followed ever since with enthusiasm and purpose.
I’ve always loved the dynamic, guest-focused nature of chartering. I believe that a well-designed yacht with a thoughtful layout makes all the difference in delivering exceptional experiences. For me, it’s about showing up, doing my best, and letting go—because everything works out in the end.
Bilingual in English and Spanish, I’m a diplomatic, hardworking, and honest mariner who brings a calm presence and a hands-on approach to every crew. When I’m not on the water, I enjoy surfing, hiking, golf, shooting sports, reading, and yoga—but my most important role by far is being a proud father to my 9-year-old son.
Previous Yachts: 50m BIG SKY, 60m LIBERTY, 41m KASMIR
Name: Thomas Hassler
Nationality: American
Position: First Officer
Position details: First Officer - Rotational
Languages: Not specified
Description: Tomi graduated from Clemson University with a B.S. in Business Management and a minor in Political Science, later earning an associate’s degree in culinary arts from Escoffier in Austin, Texas. With a passion for boating and a lifelong love for the water, I transitioned into yachting seven years ago and have since built a career that combines technical skills, travel, and adventure.
He holds a Yachtmaster Offshore (commercially endorsed), STCW with PDSD, and am an Advanced Diver. Tomi grew up driving boats on lakes and the ocean and naturally found his way into the maritime world. He's worked extensively on private, and charter yachts and takes pride in being an efficient, dependable, and approachable Mate with an eye for detail and a great sense of humor. He's also fluent in English and currently learning Italian.
With a background in culinary arts, he's comfortable stepping in to support guest service or provisioning when needed. He thrives in active, team-oriented environments and enjoys wakeboarding, surfing, diving, hiking, and staying fit.
One core lesson he's learned through experience—including a storm evacuation during a crossing—is that safety always comes first. If something doesn’t feel right at sea, speak up. No schedule is worth risking a life.
Working with an amazing crew and a kind owner, Tomi is grateful to contribute to safe, smooth, and memorable charters on a fantastic itinerary.
Previous Yachts: 109m BRAVO EUGENIA, 53m SAPPHIRE, 53m NORTHERN SUN
Name: Matthew Dehrmann
Nationality: American
Position: Engineer
Position details: Rotational
Languages: Not specified
Description: Born in South Africa and raised in California, Matt brings a unique global perspective and a calm, confident presence to SERENITY. After earning a degree from the University of Arizona, he was introduced to yachting by his sister and brother-in-law—veteran crew members who encouraged him to explore the field. Within weeks, he completed his STCW in Florida and began his journey through daywork and short-term contracts. He has now been working in yachting for two years.
He holds AEC 1 & 2, speaks fluent English, with basic Afrikaans and Spanish, and is known for his strong crew mentality, adaptability, and technical curiosity. Whether assisting on deck, helping in the interior, or getting hands-on with mechanical tasks, he brings an empathetic and reliable work ethic.
Outside of yachting, he enjoys diving, fixing cars and bikes, going to the gym, chess, and learning through books and history podcasts.
Name: Kennedy Little
Nationality: American
Position: Stewardess
Position details: Second Stewardess / Rotational
Languages: Not specified
Description: Born and raised in eastern North Carolina, Kennedy’s love for the ocean began early, spending summers playing mermaids along the coast. She later earned a Bachelor’s in Social Work with a minor in Spanish from Appalachian State University, including a study abroad in Spain.
Her passion for hospitality led her into fine dining and craft cocktail bars, where she excelled as a manager, server, and bartender. In 2023, after learning about yachting from a bar guest, she packed up and moved to Fort Lauderdale to start her maritime career.
Kennedy holds STCW, Food & Hygiene, PADI Open Water Diver, and Small Powerboat & RIB Master certifications. She loves creating memorable guest experiences and sharing her enthusiasm for life at sea aboard M/Y SERENITY. When she’s not mixing cocktails, she enjoys snorkeling, reading, and exploring new restaurants.
Previous yachts: 38m SEA AXIS, 36m XOXO
Name: Samuel Dux
Nationality: American
Position: Chef
Position details: Chef - Rotational
Languages: Not specified
Description: Sam Dux’s culinary journey began nearly two decades ago, driven by a deep fascination with food and hospitality that guided him into the world of fine dining. Over the course of ten years, his unwavering dedication led him to collaborate with esteemed chefs in various cities, honing his craft in renowned kitchens, including those of James Beard Award-winning establishments and prestigious hotels.
After graduating from culinary school, Sam focused on cultivating a unique culinary identity and mastering the art of restaurant development. He excelled in both upscale dining environments and bustling, scratch based eateries, tackling each challenge with creativity and passion.
In 2020, as the pandemic transformed the culinary landscape, Sam embraced the opportunity to fulfill a long-held ambition: earning his captain’s license and transitioning into the yachting industry. Over the next two years, he embarked on a personal odyssey, experiencing significant growth and achievement. Today, Sam brings his wealth of experience to Serenity as the Director of Culinary. His diverse expertise, shaped by years of dedication and exploration, spans all aspects of the culinary arts. With an eagerness to continue learning and growing, Sam looks forward to collaborating with Serenity’s exceptional crew to create unforgettable dining experiences.
Name: Thomas Stark
Nationality: American
Position: First Officer
Position details: First Officer - Rotational
Languages: Not specified
Description: With over 16 years in the yachting industry, Thomas Stark brings a lifetime of passion for the ocean to every voyage. Growing up in Belize, he spent countless days on the water — competing in fishing tournaments, island-hopping, and developing a deep appreciation for marine life and coastal adventure.
During university, Thomas moved to Michigan, where time spent exploring the Great Lakes further strengthened his lifelong connection to the water. Since then, yachting has taken him across the globe — from Australia to Alaska, and throughout the Mediterranean and Caribbean — experiences that have shaped him into a seasoned and enthusiastic maritime professional.
Always eager to share his love of the ocean with others, Thomas approaches each journey with gratitude, professionalism, and an enduring spirit of adventure.
Previous yachts: 40m ALPHA WAVES, 40m MISS STEPHANIE, 40m TCB, 40m TENACIOUS
Name: Laikin Dooley
Nationality: American
Position: Chief steward/ess
Position details: Chief Stewardess - Rotational
Languages: Not specified
Description: Laikin Dooley is a dedicated and enthusiastic crew member with a diverse
range of interests and skills. With a deep love for sports and anything water-related, Laikin is an avid swimmer and snorkeler who thrives on adventure and exploring new places. Traveling is a true passion, and spending quality time with family and friends is cherished.
Laikin’s professional qualifications include STCW certification and a PADI Dive certification, showcasing a strong commitment to safety and expertise in the marine environment.
Additionally, Laikin is a skilled bartender, ready to craft delightful beverages, and a talented soccer player with a competitive spirit. What Laikin loves most about the yachting industry is the excitement of never knowing what each day will bring. Interacting with guests and ensuring their trip is the most memorable
experience possible is a top priority. Laikin’s warm personality and
dedication to exceptional service make every voyage special.
Name: Jim Ruch
Nationality: American
Position: Chef
Position details: Chef - Rotational
Languages: Not specified
Description: Jim grew up in southern Connecticut, where his early years were spent sailing, fishing, and cooking. As a teenager, he balanced his time between restaurant work, music, and writing, passions that continue to influence his creativity today.
After high school, he trained classically at the New York Restaurant School, then spent a decade in New York and Boston’s top hotels and restaurants before beginning his yachting career. Over the years, he’s been fortunate to work alongside exceptional captains and chefs who helped shape his distinctive culinary style.
Having traveled extensively from the Mediterranean and Caribbean to Panama and Alaska, Jim brings a worldly touch to every dish and a calm, adaptable approach to any galley. When he’s not at sea, he enjoys life in the mountains of western North Carolina, where he’s putting the finishing touches on a home he designed himself.
Previous yachts: 44m OCTOPUSSY, 48m EXCELLENCE I & II, 41m KASHMIR
Name: Alysa Lamountain
Nationality: American
Position: Stewardess
Position details: Second Stewardess / Rotational
Languages: Not specified
Description: Alysa received her Bachelor of Science at the University of Rhode Island and studied a semester abroad at James Cook University in Australia. Her semester overseas sparked a passion for traveling and she went on to backpack through Europe the summer before college graduation. After graduation, she spent two years working as a medical assistant at an urgent care. Although she really liked the job, she decided that she wanted a career path that allowed me to travel. After she discovered yachting in 2017, she realized she'd found her dream job.
Her favorite yachting experience was during an Atlantic Crossing, when you’re in the middle of the ocean, when everything is quiet, and all you can see is a sky full of stars.
Some of her hobbies and interests are reading, fitness, and Taylor Swift! I look forward to having you onboard, beautiful M/Y SERENITY!
Name: Jimmy Batchelors
Nationality: American
Position: Bosun
Position details: Bosun - Rotational
Languages: Not specified
Description: Born and raised in Fort Lauderdale, Jimmy grew up in a family that owned a boat club and watersports company, giving him a lifelong connection to the water. He earned his Captain’s License right after high school and continued upgrading it while studying Business Management at Florida State University.
After graduating, Jimmy worked as a day-charter captain in St. Thomas and later in Southern California before transitioning to larger yachts. He joined Serenity in November 2025 as Bosun and brings strong seamanship, charter experience, and a friendly, guest-focused attitude. With his parents now living aboard their own vessel, boating truly remains a central part of his life.
Previous Yachts: M/Y Jus’ Chill’n 3, M/Y Pelago
Name: Thomas Jay Osborne
Nationality: American
Position: Bosun
Position details: Bosun - Rotational
Languages: Not specified
Description: Thomas grew up in central New Jersey as the oldest of five children. He excelled both academically and athletically throughout his school years. After graduating from high school, he began working as a union employee in New York City. He trained part-time as an engineer while also serving as a doorman at a high-end luxury apartment building—an experience that laid the foundation for his unique blend of hospitality and professional maintenance skills.
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Thomas made the decision to relocate to Florida. Having lost his job in prop-making in Los Angeles, he chose to move closer to friends and family.
A lifelong water enthusiast, the shift into yachting came naturally. The industry combined all the elements he loves—hospitality, adventure, teamwork, and the chance to visit stunning destinations while meeting fascinating people along the way.
One of Thomas’s most memorable experiences was sailing across the Atlantic aboard S/Y Bliss. It was his first major ocean crossing and a deeply formative journey. During the 18 unforgettable days at sea, he rediscovered the joy of reading, created an underway crew workout program to keep everyone healthy (weather permitting), and embraced the simplicity of life on the open water—fishing for the crew and finding moments of quiet reflection.
Currently, Thomas is passionate about surfing, golfing, exercising, and reading. He looks forward to meeting new people and bringing his energy, skills, and enthusiasm to every opportunity that comes his way.
David Laird — Captain (American)
A 9th-generation Texan born and raised in Clear Lake on the Gulf Coast, I grew up fishing, sailing, and developing a deep love for the water. After earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a focus in Management and Accounting from Sam Houston State University, I spent five years in corporate accounting in the oil and gas industry before making the life-changing decision to pursue a career at sea—my true passion. I cashed in my 401K, moved to South Florida, and never looked back. I earned my Captain’s License and became a certified NAUI and PADI Dive Instructor, training in the Florida Keys. In 1999, I landed my first job on a yacht as a deckhand in the Caribbean, and soon after, joined my first charter vessel—a path I’ve followed ever since with enthusiasm and purpose.
I’ve always loved the dynamic, guest-focused nature of chartering. I believe that a well-designed yacht with a thoughtful layout makes all the difference in delivering exceptional experiences. For me, it’s about showing up, doing my best, and letting go—because everything works out in the end.
Bilingual in English and Spanish, I’m a diplomatic, hardworking, and honest mariner who brings a calm presence and a hands-on approach to every crew. When I’m not on the water, I enjoy surfing, hiking, golf, shooting sports, reading, and yoga—but my most important role by far is being a proud father to my 9-year-old son.
Previous Yachts: 50m BIG SKY, 60m LIBERTY, 41m KASMIR
Thomas Hassler — First Officer (American)
Tomi graduated from Clemson University with a B.S. in Business Management and a minor in Political Science, later earning an associate’s degree in culinary arts from Escoffier in Austin, Texas. With a passion for boating and a lifelong love for the water, I transitioned into yachting seven years ago and have since built a career that combines technical skills, travel, and adventure.
He holds a Yachtmaster Offshore (commercially endorsed), STCW with PDSD, and am an Advanced Diver. Tomi grew up driving boats on lakes and the ocean and naturally found his way into the maritime world. He's worked extensively on private, and charter yachts and takes pride in being an efficient, dependable, and approachable Mate with an eye for detail and a great sense of humor. He's also fluent in English and currently learning Italian.
With a background in culinary arts, he's comfortable stepping in to support guest service or provisioning when needed. He thrives in active, team-oriented environments and enjoys wakeboarding, surfing, diving, hiking, and staying fit.
One core lesson he's learned through experience—including a storm evacuation during a crossing—is that safety always comes first. If something doesn’t feel right at sea, speak up. No schedule is worth risking a life.
Working with an amazing crew and a kind owner, Tomi is grateful to contribute to safe, smooth, and memorable charters on a fantastic itinerary.
Previous Yachts: 109m BRAVO EUGENIA, 53m SAPPHIRE, 53m NORTHERN SUN
Matthew Dehrmann — Engineer (American)
Born in South Africa and raised in California, Matt brings a unique global perspective and a calm, confident presence to SERENITY. After earning a degree from the University of Arizona, he was introduced to yachting by his sister and brother-in-law—veteran crew members who encouraged him to explore the field. Within weeks, he completed his STCW in Florida and began his journey through daywork and short-term contracts. He has now been working in yachting for two years.
He holds AEC 1 & 2, speaks fluent English, with basic Afrikaans and Spanish, and is known for his strong crew mentality, adaptability, and technical curiosity. Whether assisting on deck, helping in the interior, or getting hands-on with mechanical tasks, he brings an empathetic and reliable work ethic.
Outside of yachting, he enjoys diving, fixing cars and bikes, going to the gym, chess, and learning through books and history podcasts.
Kennedy Little — Stewardess (American)
Born and raised in eastern North Carolina, Kennedy’s love for the ocean began early, spending summers playing mermaids along the coast. She later earned a Bachelor’s in Social Work with a minor in Spanish from Appalachian State University, including a study abroad in Spain.
Her passion for hospitality led her into fine dining and craft cocktail bars, where she excelled as a manager, server, and bartender. In 2023, after learning about yachting from a bar guest, she packed up and moved to Fort Lauderdale to start her maritime career.
Kennedy holds STCW, Food & Hygiene, PADI Open Water Diver, and Small Powerboat & RIB Master certifications. She loves creating memorable guest experiences and sharing her enthusiasm for life at sea aboard M/Y SERENITY. When she’s not mixing cocktails, she enjoys snorkeling, reading, and exploring new restaurants.
Previous yachts: 38m SEA AXIS, 36m XOXO
Samuel Dux — Chef (American)
Sam Dux’s culinary journey began nearly two decades ago, driven by a deep fascination with food and hospitality that guided him into the world of fine dining. Over the course of ten years, his unwavering dedication led him to collaborate with esteemed chefs in various cities, honing his craft in renowned kitchens, including those of James Beard Award-winning establishments and prestigious hotels.
After graduating from culinary school, Sam focused on cultivating a unique culinary identity and mastering the art of restaurant development. He excelled in both upscale dining environments and bustling, scratch based eateries, tackling each challenge with creativity and passion.
In 2020, as the pandemic transformed the culinary landscape, Sam embraced the opportunity to fulfill a long-held ambition: earning his captain’s license and transitioning into the yachting industry. Over the next two years, he embarked on a personal odyssey, experiencing significant growth and achievement. Today, Sam brings his wealth of experience to Serenity as the Director of Culinary. His diverse expertise, shaped by years of dedication and exploration, spans all aspects of the culinary arts. With an eagerness to continue learning and growing, Sam looks forward to collaborating with Serenity’s exceptional crew to create unforgettable dining experiences.
Thomas Stark — First Officer (American)
With over 16 years in the yachting industry, Thomas Stark brings a lifetime of passion for the ocean to every voyage. Growing up in Belize, he spent countless days on the water — competing in fishing tournaments, island-hopping, and developing a deep appreciation for marine life and coastal adventure.
During university, Thomas moved to Michigan, where time spent exploring the Great Lakes further strengthened his lifelong connection to the water. Since then, yachting has taken him across the globe — from Australia to Alaska, and throughout the Mediterranean and Caribbean — experiences that have shaped him into a seasoned and enthusiastic maritime professional.
Always eager to share his love of the ocean with others, Thomas approaches each journey with gratitude, professionalism, and an enduring spirit of adventure.
Previous yachts: 40m ALPHA WAVES, 40m MISS STEPHANIE, 40m TCB, 40m TENACIOUS
Laikin Dooley — Chief steward/ess (American)
Laikin Dooley is a dedicated and enthusiastic crew member with a diverse
range of interests and skills. With a deep love for sports and anything water-related, Laikin is an avid swimmer and snorkeler who thrives on adventure and exploring new places. Traveling is a true passion, and spending quality time with family and friends is cherished.
Laikin’s professional qualifications include STCW certification and a PADI Dive certification, showcasing a strong commitment to safety and expertise in the marine environment.
Additionally, Laikin is a skilled bartender, ready to craft delightful beverages, and a talented soccer player with a competitive spirit. What Laikin loves most about the yachting industry is the excitement of never knowing what each day will bring. Interacting with guests and ensuring their trip is the most memorable
experience possible is a top priority. Laikin’s warm personality and
dedication to exceptional service make every voyage special.
Jim Ruch — Chef (American)
Jim grew up in southern Connecticut, where his early years were spent sailing, fishing, and cooking. As a teenager, he balanced his time between restaurant work, music, and writing, passions that continue to influence his creativity today.
After high school, he trained classically at the New York Restaurant School, then spent a decade in New York and Boston’s top hotels and restaurants before beginning his yachting career. Over the years, he’s been fortunate to work alongside exceptional captains and chefs who helped shape his distinctive culinary style.
Having traveled extensively from the Mediterranean and Caribbean to Panama and Alaska, Jim brings a worldly touch to every dish and a calm, adaptable approach to any galley. When he’s not at sea, he enjoys life in the mountains of western North Carolina, where he’s putting the finishing touches on a home he designed himself.
Previous yachts: 44m OCTOPUSSY, 48m EXCELLENCE I & II, 41m KASHMIR
Alysa Lamountain — Stewardess (American)
Alysa received her Bachelor of Science at the University of Rhode Island and studied a semester abroad at James Cook University in Australia. Her semester overseas sparked a passion for traveling and she went on to backpack through Europe the summer before college graduation. After graduation, she spent two years working as a medical assistant at an urgent care. Although she really liked the job, she decided that she wanted a career path that allowed me to travel. After she discovered yachting in 2017, she realized she'd found her dream job.
Her favorite yachting experience was during an Atlantic Crossing, when you’re in the middle of the ocean, when everything is quiet, and all you can see is a sky full of stars.
Some of her hobbies and interests are reading, fitness, and Taylor Swift! I look forward to having you onboard, beautiful M/Y SERENITY!
Jimmy Batchelors — Bosun (American)
Born and raised in Fort Lauderdale, Jimmy grew up in a family that owned a boat club and watersports company, giving him a lifelong connection to the water. He earned his Captain’s License right after high school and continued upgrading it while studying Business Management at Florida State University.
After graduating, Jimmy worked as a day-charter captain in St. Thomas and later in Southern California before transitioning to larger yachts. He joined Serenity in November 2025 as Bosun and brings strong seamanship, charter experience, and a friendly, guest-focused attitude. With his parents now living aboard their own vessel, boating truly remains a central part of his life.
Previous Yachts: M/Y Jus’ Chill’n 3, M/Y Pelago
Thomas Jay Osborne — Bosun (American)
Thomas grew up in central New Jersey as the oldest of five children. He excelled both academically and athletically throughout his school years. After graduating from high school, he began working as a union employee in New York City. He trained part-time as an engineer while also serving as a doorman at a high-end luxury apartment building—an experience that laid the foundation for his unique blend of hospitality and professional maintenance skills.
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Thomas made the decision to relocate to Florida. Having lost his job in prop-making in Los Angeles, he chose to move closer to friends and family.
A lifelong water enthusiast, the shift into yachting came naturally. The industry combined all the elements he loves—hospitality, adventure, teamwork, and the chance to visit stunning destinations while meeting fascinating people along the way.
One of Thomas’s most memorable experiences was sailing across the Atlantic aboard S/Y Bliss. It was his first major ocean crossing and a deeply formative journey. During the 18 unforgettable days at sea, he rediscovered the joy of reading, created an underway crew workout program to keep everyone healthy (weather permitting), and embraced the simplicity of life on the open water—fishing for the crew and finding moments of quiet reflection.
Currently, Thomas is passionate about surfing, golfing, exercising, and reading. He looks forward to meeting new people and bringing his energy, skills, and enthusiasm to every opportunity that comes his way.
iMessage
WhatsApp
