Billy grew up in Raleigh, North Carolina, and has spent most of his life on the water. With more than 20 years in the yachting industry, he holds a USCG 1600/3000-ton Oceans license with Cayman Islands endorsement and brings extensive experience across all aspects of yacht operations, from captain and engineer to project management and fleet operations. His cruising experience spans Alaska, New England, the Caribbean, Panama Canal, Bahamas, and the Eastern and Western Mediterranean, as well as Scandinavia and the North Sea. He has completed four Atlantic crossings and spent countless seasons exploring, fishing, and diving throughout Florida and the Bahamas. Known for his proactive leadership and “can-do” approach, Billy believes a positive, cohesive crew environment is essential to creating an exceptional experience for owners and guests. In his free time, he enjoys fishing, skiing, SCUBA diving, cooking, and exploring the Bahamas.

Meet Marnus, MV’s First Mate – part maritime expert and part morale booster. Hailing from Senekal, South Africa, he swapped the bushveld for the open ocean in 2020, thanks to a captain from his hometown who wisely saw his potential (or just needed a really good deckhand). But don’t let the polished uniform fool you—before yachting, he was shaping young minds as an English teacher in South Korea and Vietnam, and as an au pair in Texas (because even cowboys need life lessons). Armed with a B.Comm in Sports and Recreation Management, a Yachtmaster 200GT, and a stack of certifications that prove he knows his port from his starboard, Marnus isn’t just about keeping the ship in top shape – he’s about creating an onboard experience you won’t forget. Off duty, you’ll find him behind a camera, testing out new cuisines, perfecting his golf swing, or grilling up a storm with family and friends – because if there’s one thing he loves as much as the sea, it’s a proper South African “braai.” With plans to captain 70-100 foot yachts and retire at 45 (preferably with a real estate empire), he lives by the motto: “Upwards and onwards.”

Jonathon joins M/Y Memento Vivere as Chief Officer with several years’ experience on both charter and private yachts of various sizes. Having worked his way up through the deck ranks, he brings strong skills in navigation, safety management, and deck operations, and believes in a hands-on, lead-by-example approach to leadership. Originally from South Africa, Jonathon enjoys fitness, watersports, and exploring new destinations. He’s excited to be part of the team this season and looks forward to safe passages, smooth operations, and a few good laughs along the way.

Originally from Johannesburg, South Africa, Jaco grew up around boats and the outdoors, spending much of his childhood fishing and exploring with his family. With a lifelong connection to the water and a natural curiosity for how things work, a career at sea was always a natural path. After completing his Bachelor’s degree in Actuarial and Financial Mathematics, he decided that office life wasn’t for him and set his sights on a more hands-on career in the yachting industry, where he has worked as an engineer ever since, enjoying the technical challenges and dynamic nature of life onboard. In his time off, Jaco is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys travelling and exploring new destinations. Fishing, hiking, and spending time in nature are among his favourite pursuits, and he values the opportunity yachting provides to experience the world from a unique perspective.

Hailing from the stunning coastline of South Africa, Jamey combines a natural love for the ocean with a calm, professional approach. With one year of hands-on experience in the yachting industry and a background as a certified dive instructor, Jamey plays a key role in ensuring both the vessel and guests are in great hands. Known for being friendly, caring, and highly safety-oriented, Jamey thrives in guest-facing roles and is always ready to assist with water activities, tender operations, and deck duties. His calm presence and passion for the ocean helps to create a welcoming atmosphere onboard, whether guests are diving beneath the waves or relaxing above them. With a strong work ethic and a genuine love for life at sea, Jamey is a valued part of any crew—dedicated to delivering memorable and secure charter experiences.

Hazel is delighted to be part of your yachting experience, bringing over 15 years of experience in yachting, along with four years as a flight attendant. Her background has given her a true passion for hospitality, travel, and providing exceptional guest service. She also spent two years owning and running a sushi bar, where she developed her love of food, entertaining, and bringing people together. Friendly, attentive, and highly safety-conscious, Hazel always puts her guests first. She enjoys getting to know people, discovering new destinations, and creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable and well looked after. Hazel looks forward to helping make your time on board truly special!

Minette grew up in South Africa with a farm background, which shaped her into a grounded and reliable person with a positive outlook on life. After completing her HR degree, she decided to pursue a career in yachting in 2023, motivated by her desire to see more of the world while doing something she truly loves. Easygoing and quick to adapt, Minette enjoys being part of a busy charter environment where every day brings something new. She loves contributing to the guest experience in both the little and big ways, from making sure everything is beautifully prepared to being present with guests and ensuring they feel relaxed, comfortable, and well taken care of throughout their time onboard. Outside of work, Minette has always had a passion for dancing when being part of her university dance team. In her free time, she enjoys staying active through cycling, a good Pilates session and playfully admits that she is always up for a karaoke moment to keep the fun and smiles going. Minette brings warm energy, a genuine smile and a positive attitude to life onboard. She values teamwork, enjoys learning from those around her and takes pride in contributing to a smooth, enjoyable experience for guests.

Mandre is a South African yacht chef with a passion for food, travel, and creating memorable experiences. His culinary journey has taken him through some of South Africa and Europe’s finest kitchens, including Michelin-starred and award-winning restaurants. His cooking is inspired by his South African roots, fresh ingredients, and the diverse cultures he has experienced through his travels. Mandre enjoys creating personalised dishes tailored to each guest’s tastes, from relaxed lunches to elevated dinners. Outside the galley, Mandre is an adventurous spirit who enjoys travelling, discovering new foods and cultures, and finding inspiration wherever his travels take him.