Captain Calvin le Roux
Growing up in Vanderbijlpark, South Africa, Captain Calvin le Roux spent his summers enjoying life on the lake, developing an early appreciation for the water and the outdoors. His passion for sailing took shape in 2017 when he attended sailing school in Cape Town to pursue his RYA Yachtmaster Offshore qualification, setting the course for an international maritime career.

Since then, Calvin has sailed more than 15,000 nautical miles, including yacht deliveries and Atlantic crossings on routes from South Africa to Abu Dhabi and from the Canary Islands to Antigua. These experiences introduced him to the world of private yachts and luxury chartering, where he has continued to build his career over more than eight years in the industry.

Calvin enjoys sharing his enthusiasm for sailing and the ocean with guests of all experience levels. Whether teaching someone the fundamentals of sailing, guiding snorkeling adventures, or helping design an itinerary around a group’s interests, he takes pride in making each charter engaging, comfortable, and personal.

His professional qualifications include RYA Yachtmaster Offshore, STCW safety training, RYA VHF Radio, RYA Powerboat Level 2, ENG1 medical certification, and training through the Quarterdeck Skipper Academy. Combining practical offshore experience with a personable approach to guest service, Calvin brings confidence, enthusiasm, and a genuine love of the sea to every voyage.

Chef Katie Hopwood
Originally from Fort Worth, Texas, Chef Katie Hopwood always felt drawn to the ocean. Following her adventurous spirit, she made the move to the Caribbean, where she began her yachting career as a stewardess aboard a private sailing yacht in the British Virgin Islands. Working alongside experienced chefs while caring for guests sparked a growing passion for cooking and introduced her to the many rewards of life at sea.

Over more than ten years working aboard private and charter yachts, Katie has developed a versatile skill set encompassing guest hospitality, sailing, diving, and culinary arts. She earned her PADI Divemaster certification in Tortola and has accumulated more than 10,000 nautical miles through yacht deliveries and other sailing experience.

Determined to turn her love of cooking into a profession, Katie attended Ashburton Culinary School in 2019, earning her Certificate in Culinary Arts. She has since spent more than six years preparing meals for guests, including four years in the charter industry. Her cooking draws inspiration from both local ingredients and international cuisines, with a focus on creating varied, enjoyable meals tailored to individual preferences.

Katie’s hospitality experience extends well beyond the galley. With a background in provisioning, silver service, floral arrangements, and the practical demands of yacht operations, she understands how thoughtful details contribute to a welcoming onboard atmosphere. Her Food and Hygiene Level 2 training further supports her professional approach to food preparation and service.

Enthusiastic, adaptable, and always eager to learn something new, Katie finds genuine joy in bringing people together through food. Whether introducing guests to a new flavor or preparing a favorite dish, she approaches each meal with creativity, care, and a desire to make guests feel at home.