Captain Sean Staine
Sean is from Hermanus, South Africa. He began his yachting career back in 2012 where he sailed a 44ft catamaran for 2 months from Cape Town to Fort Lauderdale. Sean has crewed on various private and charter yachts ranging from 80ft -200ft. Sean has had lots of experience cruising all over, some of these places have included, Bahamas, South Pacific, Alaska, Caribbean and the East and West Coast USA.
Sean takes pride in his work always willing to work together with his amazing crew. He takes the safety of the vessel and his crew and guests very seriously whilst ensuring the guests are having the best trip possible and all their needs are met and exceeded. You can always expect to have an amazing experience and make many wonderful memories whilst onboard Memento Vivere with Sean.
In his free time Sean is chasing world class majestic yellow fin tuna off cape town, diving, flying helicopters, cycling and overlanding with his 4x4 vehicle
First Officer Marthinus Van Der Berg
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).
Engineer Nicholas Last (rotational)
Hailing from South Africa, Josh brings 8 years of maritime expertise, stemming from a family legacy of electricians and engineers. A professional problem solver, he ensures smooth sailing for all onboard. Beyond his technical prowess, Josh is an avid fisherman, kiteboarder, and surfer, with experience captaining vessels for deep-sea fishing in Mozambique. With 4 years in the Mediterranean and another 4 in the States, Bahamas, and the Caribbean, he guarantees a safe and unforgettable voyage for all guests.
Engineer James Caddy (rotational)
James was born in Columbus, Ohio and went to college at Texas A&M, Galveston studying marine science. Before yachting James built, designed and maintained large high-end residential and commercial aquariums, including some from the hit animal planet show “Tanked”. James has over 6 years experience on charter boats and takes pride in maintaining systems onboard to provide a more enjoyable charter experience. When he’s not stripping down engine rooms, he’s waiting with a bobber in the water for his next catch! But it doesn’t end there, James brings excitement to his fishing experience as he enjoys Fly Fishing in particular. I guess you could call him a pro! His hobbies don’t only end in the water, but also on the soccer field where he enjoys a good game of FIFA with his friends!
Chief Stewardess Vicky Feofilaktova
Vicky was born in Russia (as that may frighten some of you, I can assure you that she is the bubbliest Russian of them all). She has always worked extremely hard to reach her goals. After her graduation at Civil aviation college in 2016, she wanted to become a flight attendant but soon discovered the yachting industry and immediately knew that would be a better fit for her, and since has brought the highest level of service to the interior team. Expertly organized, Vicky works well under pressure and truly enjoys a good challenge. One of Vicky’s favorite parts of charter trips are themed parties, always excited to show off her creative side with superb table décor and seeing guests creating lasting memories onboard. She keeps a close knit team with her loud and infectious laugh, so bring ear plugs. Vicky has found her niche in the yachting industry, anticipating guests needs with ease while performing her duties with a perpetual smile and a passion for efficient service.
Second Stewardess Jana Rautenbach
Originally from South Africa’s stunning east coast, Jana has always had a deep connection to nature and a thirst for adventure. At just 16, she embarked on a life-changing leadership expedition to Nepal, where she trekked the legendary path to Everest Base Camp. That journey sparked her love for travel, and she hasn’t stopped exploring since.
In 2021, Jana turned her wanderlust into a career when she joined the yachting world as a stewardess. With a warm, can-do attitude and a passion for creating unforgettable guest experiences, she quickly found her stride on board. Jana thrives in the dynamic pace of life at sea, ensuring every detail is taken care of with professionalism and a personal touch.
When she’s not delivering five-star service, you’ll find her hiking mountain trails, staying active with fitness and water sports, or soaking up the saltwater life she loves so much. Jana brings positivity, energy, and a spirit of adventure to every voyage—and she’s always ready to make your time on board as memorable as possible.
Deckhand Jamey Fourie
NHailing 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.
Chef Gordon Logan
Gordon was born in Johannesburg, where his love for food started the way most South Africans’ do—around a fire, armed with wood, charcoal, and an unshakable dedication to the sacred art of the “Braai.”.
With over 12 years of professional experience, Gordon has cooked everywhere - from Michelin-starred restaurants to luxury yachts, always striving for excellence and never settling for “just good enough” and making sure no plate leaves his galley without a little love and a lot of flavor.
His love for food runs deep rooted in his family traditions of fly-fishing and foraging in the Drakensberg mountains.
Now working as a yacht chef, he’s taken his skill to the high seas, proving that gourmet food and ocean views are the perfect pairing.
For Gordon, cooking isn’t just a job - its a passion, a calling, and, lets be honest, the best excuse to play with fire (safely, of course).
