JOHANNES BUYS | Rotational Captain | South Africa
The distinguished yacht captain began his yachting career in 1996. Growing up on a farm in South Africa's Free State, Joe was easily drawn to the yachting lifestyle. He began his yachting career as an engineer and eventually became a yacht captain in 2002. Joe's natural navigation and mechanical skills combined with his positive attitude make him a true asset to the yachting industry. His dedication to yachting is seen in his many achievements, including obtaining his Y3 Chief Engineer license. These certifications have provided an impressive foundation for his yachting career. Today, Joe holds 20 years of captaincy under his belt. Boasting a Master Y4 3000 GT MCA Captain's license, Joe has travelled through the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mediterranean, along with most coastal waters. Well-versed in navigating the world's oceans, Captain Johannes is sure to provide the ultimate yachting experience. GRANT HEUNIS | Rotational Captain | South Africa
Grant grew up in East London, South Africa and joined Top Five II from a well-known and successful charter yacht - M/Y Elysian. He gained his MCA Master 3000 Ton License in 2012, taking over as full-time Captain of M/Y Passion after acting as Relief Captain and 1st Officer for some time already. This was a smooth transition for Grant, and he has since exceeded all expectations. Grant has extensive cruising experience in the Caribbean, Bahamas, East Coast of the USA, Mediterranean, Adriatic, and Aegean waters. Grant is a qualified PADI rescue diver and RYA Jet Ski Instructor. A keen sportsman, having competed for his provincial team in water polo and surfing, he enjoys the outdoors, mountain biking, keeping fit and hiking. ROBERT SOLOMON | First Officer (Rotational) | South Africa
Rob was born in Johannesburg, South Africa. Having grown up on a lake, Rob spent all day in and around the water. He has a strong passion for all water sports and loves being outdoors. Rob joined the industry in 2003 and now has his Chief Mate 3000 qualification. He has worked on a variety of vessels over the years and has cruised the Adriatic, Mediterranean, Caribbean, Bahamas, east coast of Africa and east coast of the USA. He was a crew member on the first Top Five so when the new build was commissioned, he jumped at the opportunity to join the program again. His vast skillset and very friendly nature make him a great asset to the team. Rob loves anything that involves being outdoors and is an avid hiker. After summiting Kilimanjaro, he is planning to do the seven peaks culminating in Everest. The next peak on the list is Aconcagua in Argentina. LUKE DU PREEZ | First Officer (Rotational) | South Africa
Luke's affinity for the ocean was forged growing up on South Africa's East Coast, where he developed a passion for fishing, diving and spearfishing. After completing a degree in Financial Management, Luke spent a year teaching English in Vietnam, further broadening his global perspective. Drawn to a career that would allow him to combine his love of the sea with his professional skills, Luke transitioned into the yachting industry. He holds a Chief Mate 3000GT license and is a master tender driver. JEREMY COLLISTER | Chief Engineer (Rotational) | New Zealand
Jeremy was raised in Auckland, New Zealand. Growing up he could be found either on the water or pulling apart anything he could get his hands on; this combination led him to a career as a Yacht Engineer. Jeremy has his SVE 9000kW / 3000 GT Engineering license. Jeremy has cruised the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and the Pacific oceans. In his spare time, he enjoys sailing, kitesurfing and exploring. His early love for sailing helped him understand and respect the ocean in all forms. This led him to sailing from Italy to Australia on his 44ft sailboat, much of it single-handed. SEAN WEEKS | Chief Engineer (Rotational) | New Zealand
Sean was born and raised in the coastal town of Auckland, New Zealand. After leaving school he did a technical apprenticeship and attended university. After completion of his studies, he travelled to North America with friends and ended up starting his yachting career while in Florida. He cruised the East Coast of the US, crossed the Atlantic Ocean and cruised the Mediterranean whilst continuing his studies. Once qualified he joined a world cruising charter sail yacht doing 20k miles per year. Sean has his MCA Chief Engineer 3000GT and a diploma in Electrical Engineering. Having spent the last few years in Florida he now lives there permanently with his long-term girlfriend. Sean likes to spend his free time outdoors, either on the mountains in the snow or biking, as well as trying different foods from different cultures. He loves the ocean, boating, fishing, and sailing as well as engineering science and modern and historical engineering. RIKUS VAN ZYL | Second Engineer (Rotational) | South Africa
Rikus grew up in George, a small town in South Africa. As a teenager, he spent his summer holidays working as a lifeguard on the numerous beaches in the area. After graduating from High School, Rikus knew that yachting would be the perfect fit for his future. He obtained the necessary qualifications required to start his career in this industry. Rikus has recently qualified as a Second Engineer and is working towards obtaining his Chief Engineer certification. He enjoys hiking, nature, reading, and learning new skills. His hobbies include playing guitar and harmonica. A fun fact — Rikus is a qualified custom knife maker, and he enjoys making these custom knives from scratch in his free time. DANIEL ALCARAZ SOTA | Second Engineer (Rotational) | Mexico
Originally from Mexico, Jose Daniel Alcaraz Sota studied engineering at a semi-military Merchant Marine School and spent five years working on commercial vessels before a captain invited him to join the yachting industry as a sole engineer on a sailing yacht in the Caribbean. Since then, he has developed a strong passion for the yachting world and continues to advance in his career. He has cruised extensively through the Pacific, Atlantic, Caribbean, and Mediterranean waters.In his free time, Jose enjoys working out, running, water sports, scuba diving, playing soccer, and drawing. A fun fact about him is that he once played in a soccer league in Savannah, Georgia, with crew members and shipyard workers—despite not all speaking the same language, they managed to communicate through hand signals and proudly finished third in the league. BIANCA BAMBROUGH | Chief Stewardess | TBA
Since stepping into the world of yachting in 2016, Bianca has brought energy, professionalism, and an adventurous spirit to every vessel she's worked on. Growing up along the coast, the ocean has always been a central part of her life. It was her deep-rooted love for the sea, coupled with a natural wanderlust, that inspired her to pursue a career in yachting. Bianca thrives in dynamic environments and brings a proactive, hands-on approach to her role as Chief Stewardess. When she's not delivering exceptional service onboard, you'll find her outdoors — hiking, running, surfing, diving, or practicing Pilates and yoga. Her zest for exploration has taken her backpacking through Central and South America and traveling extensively across the globe. Passionate about health and wellness, Bianca is currently studying for a degree in Health Sciences with a focus on Nutrition and Dietetics. ROBYN DORMEHL | 2nd Stewardess | South Africa
Robyn is from Johannesburg, South Africa; her passion for the ocean began long before yachting, having started her career as a PADI Divemaster, where she developed a lifelong love for marine life, adventure, and exploration. Robyn has gained experience aboard both private and charter vessels, cruising some of the world's most remarkable destinations including the Caribbean and Mediterranean, the fjords of Norway, the coastlines of Costa Rica and Panama, and the waters of the Galápagos Islands — experiences that have further fueled her passion for travel and life at sea. Known for her positive attitude, strong work ethic, and adaptability, Robyn thrives in fast-paced environments and takes pride in delivering exceptional guest experiences. Beyond yachting, Robyn is a certified Personal Trainer, an avid runner, and a qualified PADI Divemaster. She is passionate about health, fitness, hospitality, and adventure, and is always looking for opportunities to learn, grow, and challenge herself. Robyn views yachting as a long-term career and looks forward to continuing her journey while embracing new destinations, experiences, and opportunities along the way. ZOË-BLU MOTTRAM | Stewardess/Masseuse/Yoga Instructor | South Africa
Zoë-Blu was raised in South Africa, having spent most of her life in and around the theatre. She graduated Cum Laude from Stellenbosch University majoring in Theatre and the Performing Arts. She then went on to dance professionally in an African Contemporary dance company. Zoë-Blu is a trained yoga teacher and masseuse. Her love for the ocean, adventure, and creating meaningful connections is what drew her into the yachting industry. With her versatile skill set and warm energy, Zoë-Blu ensures that guests leave feeling refreshed, inspired and truly cared for. BIANCA MULHAM | Stewardess/Nurse | Australia
Bianca grew up in Sydney, Australia, where her love for the outdoors and active lifestyle began. After completing her nursing degree and gaining experience in customer service, she was drawn to the yachting industry for its blend of travel, teamwork, and guest service. Since beginning her yachting career at the end of 2024, she has worked as both a stewardess and nurse while cruising throughout the Asia-Pacific region. In her free time, Bianca enjoys swimming, skiing, and spending time with her family, friends, and dogs. AMY MOCKEY | Stewardess/Masseuse | South Africa
Amy is from Cape Town, South Africa. After finishing her BCom Law degree and spending time in the corporate world and Airbnb hosting, she joined the yachting industry. She loves being in nature, hiking, and being near the ocean. She is qualified in holistic massage and spent 7 years as a dancer competing in Europe. In her spare time, Amy enjoys long walks and watching sunsets. ROB FULLER | Head Chef | England
Chef Rob has been a Chef for many years and has travelled all over the world. Originally from England, where he was formally trained in the culinary arts, Rob seized the opportunity to be a Sous Chef at the prestigious Ritz de Paris. From Paris he joined the yachting industry, where his culinary knowledge has served him well. He has also worked with employers such as the Fayyad family, Danielle Steele and Giorgio Armani in their residences, villas and yachts. Chef Rob creates high-end culinary masterpieces that exhilarate the taste buds for the charter and guests. Chef Rob understands the diverse requirements of the client, regardless of location or resources, and finds creating menus from local ingredients a fulfilling challenge. PHILIP CRONJE | Sous Chef | South Africa
Philip is a passionate and detail-oriented sous chef with a strong background in restaurants. He thrives in fast-paced kitchen environments, ensuring smooth operations and exceptional food quality. His expertise lies in menu development, staff training, and maintaining high culinary standards. NICO TRUETER | 2nd Officer | South Africa
Nico was born in a small town called Riversdale in South Africa. Nico developed a passion for sport, especially rugby, from a very young age. As well as his love for rugby, he always enjoys swimming, water sports, hiking, and running. Nico studied at the University of Stellenbosch, where he qualified as an accountant. He returned to his hometown to complete his three years of articles. Once he qualified, he realized that being tied down behind a desk and crunching numbers was not for him, so in 2018 he took to the seas where he could be physically and mentally stimulated, and has never looked back. Nico is learning as much as he can, building a firm foundation as he climbs the ladder to become a captain. He currently holds his Chief Mate 3000GT license. Nico, impressively, can do a handstand starting from a seated position. NICHOLAS PAIN | Bosun | Australia
Nic grew up in Newcastle, Australia, practically raised in the ocean. With a childhood spent surfing, fishing, and playing every sport imaginable, it was only natural that he'd follow his uncle and older brother into the superyacht industry. Nic thrives in the outdoors, and when he's not on deck, you'll likely find him in the surf, teeing off on a golf course, hitting hiking trails, or chasing the next adrenaline rush through sport. Sport-obsessed and always active, he brings that same energy and positivity to his role onboard. Known for his sharp sense of humor and lighthearted spirit, Nic has a knack for keeping morale high — even when the job gets tough. At the same time, he's professional and a natural leader. An experienced diver, he's dived in some of the world's most breathtaking underwater sites. His passion for capturing moments has also led him into photography and videography. DILLON SLIER | Deckhand/Dive | South Africa
Dillon was born in Cape Town, South Africa, where he grew up wakeboarding on the Vaal River in his spare time and enjoying lots of rugby. He also took up diving, and used that passion to achieve his divemaster qualification. He loves traveling and taking on new challenges, so straight after school he headed for the Mediterranean to begin his yachting career. He hopes to follow in his father's footsteps and be a Chief Engineer on the high seas. JOHN SATRI | Deckhand | American
Born in Guatemala and raised in New York from the age of 10, John graduated from Johnson & Wales University with a degree in Business, but it was his early hands-on experience at a yacht club that set him on a maritime path. John began his career working in the marine facilities department, where he honed his skills launching and hauling boats, maintaining a fleet of power and sailboats, and steadily earning certifications along the way. He became a licensed launch operator and eventually founded his own business focused on cleaning, maintaining, and operating private vessels throughout the Long Island Sound, gaining valuable experience and deepening his love for life on the water. KEAGAN AADENDORF | Deckhand/Engineer | South Africa
Keagan grew up in a small coastal surfing town in South Africa and has spent most of his life around the ocean. Throughout his younger years, he became a champion rower, qualified surfer, and avid fisherman, with a clear passion for the sea and outdoor lifestyle. His dedication and drive, both academically and athletically, including representing South Africa internationally in rowing, have carried through into his professional career. Keagan looks forward to creating memorable experiences and unforgettable moments for the guests out on the water. MARCO BOERS | Deckhand/Dive Instructor | South Africa
Marco Boers is a South African deckhand, dive instructor, and passionate fisherman who grew up in a small coastal town on the south coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Raised within a scuba diving charter business, he developed a deep appreciation for the ocean from an early age, which ultimately inspired his career in yachting. Fluent in Afrikaans, English, and Zulu, Marco brings a strong outdoor background and a positive, hardworking attitude to the team. Top Five II is his first yacht, and he is excited to build his career within the industry. He has an Honours Degree in Biokinetics and is also a qualified Professional Hunter (PH). In his free time, he enjoys fishing, staying active through training, and spending time on or around the water. JP BRITS | Deckhand/Dive | South Africa
Born and raised in South Africa, JP developed a deep connection to the ocean from a young age. His passion for marine life runs deep, shaped by years spent exploring the shoreline and diving beneath the waves. JP also has years of hands-on carpentry experience, having worked for a furniture manufacturing company prior to his professional diving career.
ALICE MCCUSKER-BOON | Spa/Stew | South AfricaAlice is a British Stewardess and Spa Therapist who grew up in Colchester, UK, where she qualified as a Spa Therapist and began her wellness career in a land-based spa before moving to sea with Norwegian Cruise Line, providing luxury spa services. Her passion for the ocean, travel, and luxury hospitality naturally led her into the yachting industry. Having cruised the North Atlantic, Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico, Alice brings valuable experience alongside her qualifications. She takes pride in creating a calm and welcoming atmosphere for guests and is known for her attentive, thoughtful, and warm nature. In her free time, Alice enjoys staying active through long walks, running, and gym sessions, and loves travelling and meeting new people. Outside of her core spa qualifications, she has completed additional specialist courses in product knowledge and sensitive care to further enhance guest wellbeing and elevate the onboard experience.
