Captain: James Speed

CAPTAIN - James Speed
James Speed grew up in a small town in South Africa and has been immersed in the marine industry
for over 10 years. He has a love for the ocean and is passionate about travel which ultimately drew him
to a life on the water. Yachting has fueled this passion and taken him to Mediterranean, Baltic Sea,
Russia, Eastern Europe, North and Central America. Having been on various well run charter vessels
James has extensive experience and knowledge and will ensure that your time onboard is filled with
adventure and fun. James leads from the front and has a professional, enthusiastic yet still easy going
leadership style. In 2022 he married chief stewardess Jessie Speed and together they aim to ensure your
Stay Salty experience is incredible.
When James is not on the ocean he will be Wing Foiling, Fishing, spearfishing, Kayaking or adventuring
in the mountains on two wheels or by foot.

CHIEF MATE - Gabriel Viviers
Meet Riël Viviers, a sun-kissed soul hailing from the idyllic shores of Victoria Bay, South Africa, where
he lives just a stone's throw away from an awe-inspiring surfers' paradise. Growing up surrounded by
sports enthusiasts, Riël's life has been an exhilarating journey through waves and mountains. In his
early days, he effortlessly mastered the art of surfing and spearfishing. The water beckons to Riël, but so
do the majestic mountains, which he eagerly hikes and climbs.
Post high school, Riël set his sights on the yachting industry, working tirelessly to secure his
foundational licenses right out of the gate. His unwavering commitment has set him on a course toward
the prestigious rank of a Captain one day. With a cheerful disposition and a willingness to lend a hand
both in and out of the water, Riël is the kind of person who spreads happiness wherever he goes.

CHIEF ENGINEER - Gregory Oello
Greg grew up on the small island of Jamaica filled with sunshine and beaches where he learnt early on
how to make things work and that gave him the knack for engineering.Greg completed his studies at the
Caribbean Maritime University and has been in yachting ever since. Greg loves traveling to various
countries and meeting new people. He has been onboard Stay Salty since July and works hard keeping
our engines running, No task to small and no problem to hard to solve, Greg lives his life with a smile
and his face and enjoying every day as a new adventure.

CHIEF STEWARDESS - Jessie Speed
Jessie Speed, an ocean enthusiast hailing from South Africa's east coast, found her calling in the
maritime industry a decade ago. Starting as a bar waitress on cruise ships, she embraced a life at sea.
With a deep love for the ocean and travel, Jessie fostered a passion for community support during her
time in the south Pacific, exploring remote islands and learning about diverse cultures. In 2018 she
became a certified yoga instructor, blending her passion for wellness with her maritime expertise. In
2022 Jessie married her soulmate, Captain James, forming a dynamic duo on the high seas. With their
passion and dedication to high standards and a good time, they can’t wait to have you aboard for a
memorable adventure.

CHEF - TO BE ANNOUNCED

SECOND STEWARDESS - Holly Brunt
Kia Ora! Holly was born and raised in a small surfing town on the east coast of New Zealand called
Mangawhai. Much of her childhood and teens was spent competing in international equestrian
competitions across Australia and New Zealand with her younger brother. Since graduating high school
she worked in California at a mountain ranch teaching horse riding to kids and has been in yachting for
3 years now. In her down time you’ll find her horse riding, back country hiking or close to the ocean
surfing with her family and friends. Throughout Holly’s time in the yachting industry she has worked
for prestigious programs and in all areas of the interior. Hol’s is grateful to have landed herself back
with the Stay Salty program and she can’t wait to provide a memorable experience for you onboard.

THIRD STEWARDESS/ MASSEUSE - Kendal Cole
Kendal grew up in Durban and was raised in the vibrant city of Johannesburg, South Africa. Kendal has
always had a profound connection with the ocean and her fondest memories involve vacations by the
sea. Kenz has a strong foundation in the health and wellness industry, where she brings her unique
blend of expertise and passion to her endeavors. A contagiously happy and energetic individual, Kendal
radiates positivity wherever she goes. Having dedicated a year to the industry, Kendal is just beginning
her journey in the exciting world of yachting. With her warm and uplifting personality you will see her
always smiling and embracing each day with enthusiasm.

DECKHAND- Sam Speed
Meet Sam Speed, a small town South African. He was raised a short drive from both the Drakensberg
mountains and the warm ocean of SA's east coast. After finishing schooling in South Africa Sam
pursued all avenues that lead to adventure, becoming a walking guide on the Wild Coast of South Africa
as well as joining an expedition to the frigid reaches of Antarctica on 2 separate occasions. In his time
on the Wild Coast Sam became an avid spear and fly fisherman embracing life by the sea. With an
unquenchable thirst for adventure Sam grabbed the opportunity presented to him to join the Stay Salty
team where he eagerly learns everyday as he lends a happy helping hand in any situation where it may
be required.