NAMASTE

Captain - Tony Stewart
Nationality: American
Languages: English

Education: Degree in Culinary Arts in 1995, USCG 500Ton Master Oceans, GMDSS, ECDIS, ARPA and a host of other STCW classes

Born and raised in the coastal town of Port Townsend, Washington, Tony has always felt a deep connection to the water, it’s truly in his veins. He began his yachting career in 1998, inspired by the dream of traveling the world by sea.

Before entering the maritime industry, Tony attended culinary school straight out of high school and began his professional life as a chef. That foundation gave him a strong attention to detail, a deep appreciation for hospitality, and a commitment to high standards all qualities that continue to shape his leadership style today.

He started chartering in 1998. Roughly half of Tony’s career has been spent aboard charter yachts, where he has consistently delivered top tier service and unforgettable trips. Most notably, he was the Captain on M/Y ALL INN, which was recognized as Fraser Yachts' Charter Yacht of the Year in 2022. His previously also worked on M/Y CRU, M/Y SOULMATE, and currently abroad M/Y NAMASTE.

As a captain, Tony is known for his open communication, calm leadership, and unwavering focus on safety. He believes that a cohesive, respectful crew and clear expectations are key to an exceptional guest experience. Over the years, Tony has built a career defined by passion, professionalism, and a deep respect for both the ocean and the guest experience. His goal in the yachting industry is to create memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experiences for guests, while continuing to do the work he finds deeply fulfilling, living a life most only dream about.

His cruising experience is extensive and includes the Bahamas, New England, the Mediterranean, East Coast Canada, the Leeward and Windward Islands, Central America (including two Panama Canal crossings), Mexico, the West Coast of the U.S., the Canadian Inside Passage, and Alaska. Among all the destinations he has explored, Tony’s favorite charter location is the Bahamas, with Alaska coming in as a close second.

Off the water, Tony is an avid car enthusiast. He enjoys restoring classic cars, cruising with friends and family, and attending car shows. Music is also a lifelong passion and a constant presence in his life.

Tony’s personal motto is "Sometimes experience is what you get when you don’t get what you want."



Mate - Ronald “Ross” Conrad Crouse
Nationality: South African
Languages: English

Education: Bachelor of Commerce in Economics and International Trade. Marine qualifications: Yachtmaster offshore (RYA/MCA), STCW + PDSD, RYA PWC, RYA Diesel Engine, RYA Radar

Ronald “Ross” Conrad Crouse grew up on a farm in northern South Africa, where his early life was shaped by the outdoors. With a father who kept him out of the house, Ross spent his childhood building things, exploring nature, and riding his motorcycle through the fields, developing independence and practical skills from a young age. An all round sportsman, he played rugby, cricket, hockey, and tennis throughout school and university. He held the U/19 school record for javelin and was selected for the school’s First Rugby Team, reflecting his athletic ability, teamwork, and determination. His professions before yachting included property development and working as a real estate practitioner.

Ross is currently serving as Mate aboard M/Y NAMASTE. He began his yachting career in 2022, inspired by a period of reflection during the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many, the global disruption prompted him to re-evaluate his priorities and seek a path that offered both personal fulfillment and adventure.

Introduced to the yachting industry by a cousin already working in the field, Ross was immediately drawn to the opportunity to work with people from diverse cultures, travel the world, and grow both personally and professionally, all while being at sea.

Ross has one full charter season under his belt and brings energy, enthusiasm, and a strong work ethic to every role. Young and driven, he is committed to continuing in the charter sector and building a long-term career in yachting. He previously worked on S/Y ZOKU and M/Y QUEEN D.

As Mate, he is dedicated to the safety, performance, and overall guest experience on board. Known for his positive attitude and strong work ethic, he leads with professionalism and fosters a supportive, team focused environment.

With experience running charters throughout the Caribbean and New England, he values the unique appeal of each destination, especially those that offer hiking and natural beauty, like Peru.

Passionate about fitness and the outdoors, he enjoys sharing his knowledge of watersports and wellness, ensuring guests leave feeling relaxed, recharged, and with unforgettable memories.

His motto in life is “Stop dreaming and start doing”. Encourages turning aspirations into reality



Chef: Carlos A. Valle
Nationality: Italian
Languages: English, Italian, Spanish

Description:

Education / Certifications: STCW 10, ENG1, PDSD, Ship’s Cook Certificate, Culinary Arts Degree, European Master in Gastronomy, Diet & Nutrition Degree, HACCP Level 3.

Chef Carlos Valle is a highly accomplished yacht and private hospitality chef with over 20 years of international culinary experience spanning luxury yachts, private estates, boutique chalets, and Michelin-influenced restaurant
environments.

His career began ashore in high-end European restaurants under Michelin Star executive chefs before evolving into private service for UHNW clients across Europe, the Middle East, and the Caribbean. Drawn to the creativity, pace, and precision required at sea, Carlos has since built a reputation as a trusted sole chef on both private and charter yachts.

Carlos’s cooking style is self described as a broad spectrum of global cuisine, from haute cuisine, to farm-to-table and local specialties. With a strong emphasis on fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and balanced, nutrition-forward menus.

As chef on board, Carlos manages the full culinary operation end-to-end, including menu design, provisioning, budgeting, and execution of daily service across high-usage programs. He has extensive experience cruising the
Mediterranean, Caribbean, and U.S. waters, sourcing from local markets and remote islands alike. His background includes intimate family charters, long-range cruising, and dynamic guest programs, with service ranging from
relaxed al fresco dining to refined multi-course dinners and themed culinary experiences.

Beyond the galley, Carlos is known for his calm leadership style, meticulous attention to detail, and genuine passion for hospitality. In his downtime, he enjoys exploring local food cultures, refining new recipes, and drawing inspiration from travel. Continually bringing fresh perspective and elevated experiences to every charter.



Chief Engineer - Duvaughn Chin
Nationality: Jamaican
Languages: English

Education/Certifications: STCW 95, ENG 1, STCW Class 3 UNLIMITED, Proficiency in Security Awareness, Proficiency in Security Duties, The Republic of the Marshall Islands Endorsement, Cayman Islands Endorsement

Meet Duvaughn, a highly skilled and experienced engineer, hailing from the picturesque island of Jamaica. He embarked on his maritime journey after graduating from Caribbean Maritime University in 2013, where four years of rigorous studies paved the way for his career in the maritime industry. Duvaughn's professional journey commenced on commercial vessels, including containers, product tankers, and bulk carriers, where he honed his technical expertise. However, a thirst for a new challenge and a passion for luxury vessels led him to transition to the world of super yachts.

As the engineer on board, Duvaughn takes on the vital responsibility of ensuring the seamless operation and maintenance of the yacht's intricate machinery and systems. His extensive experience has led him to become highly skilled in troubleshooting and problem-solving, swiftly handling any technical issue that arises, ensuring the yacht runs safely and efficiently.

Beyond his technical prowess, Duvaughn is known for his warm and welcoming demeanor, coupled with a mature and enthusiastic nature, which makes him a true pleasure to have on board. His professionalism and friendly approach contribute to his status as a valued member of any crew. His dedication to ensuring the safety and comfort of guests onboard will provide peace of mind for all those who set sail with him.

In his spare time, you can find him actively engaging in water sports like water skiing, and wakeboarding, or concentrating on his fitness.



Chief Stewardess - Christelle van Zyl
Nationality: South African
Languages: English, Afrikaans

Education: SYSA Interior Introduction Course, STCW & PDSD, RYA PWC, Food Hygiene, Health and Safety Level 2, Mixology and Wine Course, Degree in Businesses Management and Marketing Science, Diploma in Self Brand Management, Diploma in Photographic Design, New York.

Christelle grew up on a farm in South Africa, where her family cultivated apples, pears, peaches, prunes, onions, and raised sheep. From a young age, she developed a deep love for nature and was often found in the garden. The youngest of three, with two older brothers, Christelle shares a close bond with her family, especially through their shared passion for sports and staying active, something she values for both physical and mental well-being.

While studying Business Management and Marketing Science, she worked at the prestigious Rust en Vrede wine estate, gaining experience in fine dining and hosting wine tastings for international guests. After completing her degree, Christelle moved to the U.S. to work as an au pair, then transitioned into the yachting industry in 2023, inspired by friends already in the field.

Since then, she has worked on M/Y HIGHLANDER, M/Y ROCKIT, M/Y QUEEN D, and currently serves as Chief Stewardess aboard M/Y NAMASTE. Her role includes maintaining pristine guest and crew areas, managing uniforms and supplies, and overseeing provisioning to ensure the highest standards onboard. She also participated in a nine-month liveaboard program, gaining hands-on, immersive experience.

Christelle brings energy, positivity, and a deep appreciation for nature to her work. She believes in the power of teamwork, enthusiasm, and a motivated mindset to create a warm, welcoming environment. Her goal is always to ensure that everyone onboard feels relaxed, cared for, and truly able to disconnect from daily stress.

Her travels have taken her to beautiful destinations including Saint Barths, the BVI’s, the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, and Puerto Rico—though Saint Barths and the BVI’s remain her favorites for their natural beauty and vibrant energy. Outside of yachting, Christelle is passionate about personal growth and adventure. A highlight was hiking the Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu, a major bucket-list achievement.

Looking ahead, she hopes to grow in the yachting industry, eventually transition to a remote career using her degree, and one day open her own jewellery shop, a long held dream. Her vision for the future includes building a home surrounded by nature, starting a family, and living a peaceful, fulfilling life.
Her ultimate goal onboard is simple: to make guests feel completely at ease. Whether it's waking up without an alarm, diving into the ocean, or returning to a refreshing drink, Christelle aims to create experiences that leave lasting memories.

Her motto in life is “Let your head rise beyond the trees into the clouds, but keep your feet firmly on the ground”. “Look up to the moon and stars, no matter where you are or what you're going through, remember: everything is temporary, and tomorrow will be different”.



Second Stewardess - Kristin Emslie
Nationality: South African
Languages: English

Description:
Education/Certifications: Bcom Degree in Hospitality Management, STEW, ENG 1, Crowd Management and Passenger Safety, Food & Safety Level 2

Elizabeth grew up in the beautiful coastal city of Port Elizabeth, where the ocean’s rhythm and the warmth of a close-knit family shaped her early years. Her childhood was filled with adventure, from exploring scenic hiking trails and volunteering as a lifesaver along the beaches to nurturing her passion for modeling.

As she grew older, Elizabeth discovered a love for hospitality, working primarily in event planning and coordination. Her passion for creating memorable experiences, combined with her lifelong connection to the ocean, naturally led her to a career in yachting in 2024.

Since then, she has gained valuable experience working aboard several vessels, including M/Y ATTESSA IV, M/Y REHAB, M/Y AZTECA, and is currently serving as second stewardess on M/Y NAMASTE.

As a stewardess, her goal is to ensure that every guest leaves with lasting memories, a genuine connection to the ocean, the yacht lifestyle, and a desire to return, knowing they were in the best hands possible. She aspires to one day become a Chief Stewardess and, later in life, to apply the knowledge and experience gained from yachting to a career in the events industry.

In her free time, Elizabeth enjoys snorkeling, hiking, swimming, and practicing yoga.

Kristin's personal motto "Live life to the fullest".



Deckhand - Siyabonga "Siya" Mphokeli
Nationality: South African
Languages: English, Xhosa

Description:

Education/Certifications: Level 4 Electrical Engineering, STCW, AEC1, AEC2, ENG 1

He was raised in the vibrant community of Gugulethu, South Africa, where he spent his childhood with his three brothers and sister. Growing up, he developed a strong sense of teamwork while exploring the neighborhood with friends and playing soccer and rugby. His active involvement in the community helped shape his values of collaboration, resilience, and connection.

Previously, he worked as a manager at Craft Burgers, overseeing daily operations. Inspired by his former housemate, who worked as a chef in the industry, he was motivated to begin his own career in this exciting field in 2022.

He's worked on vessels such as M/Y SHE'S A 10, M/Y CRESCENDO, M/Y SECOND LOVE, M/Y ALANDREA and currently onboard M/Y NAMASTE as a deckhand. Siya has gained extensive cruising experience throughout the Caribbean and the US East Coast, but his favorite location is Newport, Rhode Island, where he appreciates the welcoming atmosphere and rich maritime culture of the town.
As a deckhand, he takes pride in maintaining a positive attitude and contributing to a productive, team-focused work environment. He is committed to providing guests with remarkable charter experiences, ensuring the highest standards of professionalism, attention to detail, and hospitality.

His long-term goal in the industry is to become a Captain. Beyond yachting, he aspires to establish a property development in his hometown, creating opportunities for his community and contributing to local growth.

In his spare time, Siya focuses on maintaining a positive mindset and physical fitness by going to the gym. He also enjoys following sports such as tennis and soccer, which keep him motivated and engaged.

His personal motto "Driven by passion, guided by purpose".