SOUTH

Jason Pearce

Captain

English

From: South Africa Born and raised in Durban, a vibrant coastal city in South Africa, Jason's passion for the ocean began early. Whether surfing the waves, spearfishing, sailing, or honing his swing on the local golf course, his love for the sea shaped much of his youth. After graduating from Westville Boys High in 2008, Jason set his sights on a maritime career, embarking on his first yachting adventure in 2010. With over 14 years of hands-on experience, Jason steadily worked his way up the ranks, ultimately earning his Masters 3000GT license in April 2021. His journey as a captain has been nothing short of exhilarating, having previously helmed the esteemed motor yacht Loon. Now, as captain of the luxurious motor yacht South for over a year, Jason continues to deliver exceptional experiences, combining his deep-seated love for the sea with his extensive expertise and leadership. His commitment to excellence and his personable nature have earned him a stellar reputation, ensuring unforgettable journeys for every guest aboard. --- Crew member - Scott Johnson Certifications/ Education: Master 3000 (Yachts), Bachelor of Commerce – Accounting, Financial Planning Diploma Scott grew up on a dairy farm in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Karoo, where he spent his days immersed in the rugged outdoors. Later, he moved to the coastal city of Port Elizabeth to complete his schooling, enjoying every opportunity to be at the beach. His love for the outdoors eventually led him to the yachting industry in 2012. Leaving a career in finance, Scott took a chance on yachting at the encouragement of a good friend, and is still here twelve years later. As Chief Officer, Scott handles navigation, oversees crew training, ensures rigorous safety standards, and keeps the yacht in immaculate condition. His goal is to become a captain with a fun, outgoing, and professional crew that creates a welcoming, “feel-good” atmosphere for guests. He’s passionate about exceeding guest expectations, from arranging memorable activities to sharing his local knowledge so guests can discover hidden gems they’ll want to return to. When he’s not on board, Scott enjoys golf, fishing, hiking, and spending time in nature. When his yachting career is finished, he has a goal of building a cattle farm in the Karoo area. --- Rotational Chief Officer - Christopher Tingl From: South Africa Certifications/Education: MCA Chief Officer 3000gt, MCA/RYA Yacht-Master Oceans 200gt, Culinary Trained - BallyMaloe Cookery School Christopher grew up on the sun-soaked beaches of Durban, South Africa, where he spent his youth bodyboarding, fishing, and exploring the endless stretches of coastline. Eager to escape the typical 9-to-5 routine and explore the world, he took the leap into the yachting industry in 2012, inspired by friends already in the industry. Christopher’s greatest asset is his approachable and friendly demeanor, which he extends to both guests and crew. He takes pride in his work, always balancing professionalism with genuine warmth. Christopher is dedicated to giving charter guests an unforgettable experience with itineraries that showcase each destination’s best-kept secrets—from hidden beaches and breathtaking hikes to incredible local restaurants in remote areas. In his spare time, Christopher loves staying active with rugby, tennis, golf, paddling, wake surfing, hiking, foiling, and running. His true passion, however, lies in food, and he enjoys teaching others to bake bread or cook seafood over an open fire. When he eventually steps ashore for good, he dreams of opening a tapas and music lounge with his wife and son. ---

Ronn Sczesny

Chef

English, German

From: Germany Waters Cruised: Pacific and Atlantic Oceans and the Mediterranean Sea Ron's culinary journey is a tale of international flavors and entrepreneurial spirit. Born in Germany, Ron's family charted a new course to Australia when he was just 11. Entrenched in the hospitality industry from the start, his family owned a Bar/Restaurant, with both his mother and sister emerged as accomplished Chefs. Following his schooling, Ron dove headfirst into the culinary world, initiating his apprenticeship. In 1996, driven by an entrepreneurial fire, he embarked on a three-year part-time course, laying the foundation for his own business ventures. In the heart of North Sydney, Australia, Ron birthed Altitude, a Juice bar that he nurtured from a $25,000 inception to a $250,000 success story within two years. The yachting world beckoned Ron in 2007, offering a new horizon to showcase his culinary prowess. His culinary philosophy centers on fresh and light creations, and he takes pride in crafting dishes from scratch. Ron's culinary repertoire spans a fusion of modern American, Italian, Thai, and Japanese styles, showcasing his versatility and appreciation for diverse flavors. Beyond the galley, Ron finds solace at home with his family and two majestic Great Danes. When he's not tantalizing taste buds on board, he dedicates time to swimming, maintaining his fitness, and indulging in the cinematic world. Ron's culinary journey is a testament to his passion, from the humble beginnings of a family-owned restaurant to the high seas of yachting, where he continues to redefine the art of gastronomy with every dish he creates. ---

Jilene

Chief Stew

English

Certifications/Education: Commercial Helicopter Pilot TEFL Teacher, Open Water Diver Growing up in the sunny mountains of South Africa, Jilene developed a love for animals, adventure, and the outdoors from an early age. With over a decade in yachting, she seamlessly combines her passion for travel and hospitality, making every charter a memorable experience for guests. Prior to joining the yachting industry, Jilene taught English in China and Cambodia and gained valuable skills working as a PA and childcare events coordinator. Jilene brings a unique blend of enthusiasm, structure, and expertise, always looking to elevate her skills and exceed guests' expectations. Her goal is to provide an effortless experience for guests, ensuring they can relax completely and feel wowed by every detail of their journey. Known for her bubbly, positive personality, she fosters a warm, collaborative atmosphere on board. In her free time, you can find Jilene swimming, hiking, or eating her way around the world. --- Second Stew - Gabby Svencis Certifications/Education: WSET Level 2 Wine Course, PADI Advanced Open Water Scuba Diving, 200hr Yoga Teacher Training Gabby hails from Brisbane, Australia. As a child, she eagerly took part in every water and land sport she could find, with a special passion for swimming and dancing. Her career in hospitality began at just 14, leading her to bartend and work in restaurants across London and Barcelona. It was during her two years in Barcelona that Gabby was first introduced to the yachting lifestyle in the Mediterranean—and once she heard about the industry, she couldn’t resist diving in. Gabby brings a bubbly, positive energy to life on board, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests and helping the crew bond through shared activities. She’s committed to making every charter a memorable experience, dedicated to ensuring guests have the most fun, carefree, and unforgettable holiday imaginable, with smiles from start to finish. Outside of yachting, Gabby is passionate about health and wellness and dreams of starting her own business in the field one day. In her spare time, she loves to stay active and enjoy the outdoors. Whether it’s yoga, running, hiking, surfing, diving, or skiing, Gabby is always up for an adventure! --- Third Stew - Justine Legg Certifications/Education: WSET level 2, Padi Open Water, Floristry Course Justine grew up on a farm just outside the coastal town of Port Alfred, South Africa, where she developed a love for the outdoors. Her family was always on the move, spending weekends on camping and hiking adventures. This adventurous spirit carried her into the yachting world in 2017, when she took her first role on a sailboat in Norway. Since then, she has expanded her expertise, working on a variety of yachts. Now serving as a 3rd Stewardess, Justine takes pride in upholding the highest standards throughout the yacht’s interior, ensuring every detail is perfectly arranged for the guests' comfort. Known for her motivation to keep the yacht immaculate, she wants every guest who steps on board to experience an unforgettable vacation, enjoying both exceptional service and stunning destinations. In her spare time, you can find Justine enjoying Pilates, running, hiking, diving, and paddling as a member of the Kowie Paddling Club back home. Outside of her career, Justine dreams of starting her own flower farm. ---