MISS MICHELLE

Stas Estko | Captain

BIO: Captain Stas started in professional yachting 17 years ago as an engineer onboard a luxury motor yacht based in Asia. At the age of 22, he obtained his Captain’s license and shortly after took command of his first vessel as a Captain/Engineer.
Capt. Estko is highly detail-oriented and professional, putting his heart into everything he does to ensure the best and safest experience for Miss Michelle’s guests. His experience includes commanding vessels in diverse regions of the world, including the West Coast of India, Canada, the Caribbean, the Bahamas, the East and West Coasts of the USA, and the Mediterranean.
Stas graduated from technical college in the field of Mechatronics, a background that has proven invaluable in maintaining today’s technologically advanced yachts. Always striving for self-improvement, he holds certifications as a PADI Scuba Instructor and First Aid Instructor.
Beyond yachting, Stas has a unique background in competitive sport ballroom dancing and acrobatics, showcasing his discipline and adaptability. Stas took over Miss Michelle at her commissioning stage, overseeing the crewing, outfitting, and charter operation preparations. Alongside his dedicated team, he looks forward to welcoming you onboard for an unforgettable journey.

Hobbies: Diving, water sports, engineering innovations

Jake Consulta | Chef

BIO: Born in the Philippines and raised in the Bahamas, Jake developed a passion for cooking at a young age and knew early on that this was the career he wanted to pursue. At just 17, he started his culinary journey studying at Johnson & Wales University in North Miami, where he mastered the fundamentals of culinary techniques and fine dining.
During his time in the U.S.A, he worked for prestigious luxury hotel brands like the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and SLS LUX. After 5 years of living in the U.S.A, he embarked on an exciting chapter as a Sushi Chef, returning to his childhood upbringing in the Bahamas. Jake proved to be a very valuable employee from the start and rose through the ranks and became an Executive Chef for one of the company’s properties, in just 5 years of his tenure. Jake has always immersed himself in many different international cuisines and some of his personal favorites being Japanese,Italian, French and Asian. Before entering the yachting industry, Jake worked as a private chef, refining his skills in high-end dining and custom menu curation.
In 2025, he landed his first role on a 37m private motor yacht, quickly gaining recognition for his creative use of local ingredients and his imaginative interpretations of Mediterranean and international cuisine. His baking skills are also second to none, delivering freshly baked bread and desserts that consistently impress guests.
Fluent in Tagalog, Bicol and English, Jake is advancing in learning Spanish, adding to his ability to connect with diverse cultures worldwide.

Hobbies: Swimming, cooking, reading, playing tennis, billiards, exploring new flavors and restaurants, and traveling.

Ruan Pienaar | Engineer / Mate

BIO: Born and raised in South Africa, Ruan went into the mining industry right after school where he was an electrical assistant on different mines from underground, open cast and surface mining. Ruan launched his yachting career in2015. Since then, he has worked on a variety of vessels, gaining invaluable experiences in many parts of the world.One of his most notable adventures includes sailing to the Seychelles from Malta an experience that sharpened his seamanship and resilience at sea.
Ruan has also taken a year off in the past to work for a carnival fare that traveled around the US fixing bumper cars. His extensive time working on yachts across South Florida, the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Mexico and the Mediterranean has given him a deep understanding of these regions and their unique conditions.
Holding multiple certifications, including PADI open water, MOYL 200t Power License, and AEC, working towards his OOW Ruan’s skill set extends across electrical and IT systems, safety, and water sports, making him a versatile asset to the Miss Michelle crew.

Hobbies: Golfing, traveling, engineering

Nicole Croome | Stewardess

BIO: Nicole entered the yachting industry after more than a decade in luxury hospitality and fine wine service, quickly establishing herself as a dedicated and adaptable stewardess with a passion for detail and excellence. She began her yachting journey aboard the prestigious 66m M/Y Elysian, where she served on a dynamic interior team during Mediterranean and Caribbean seasons, earning high praise for her work ethic and guest service.
Nicole’s land-based background includes senior sommelier roles at globally recognized 5-star lodges such as Singita and Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, where she assisted in curating wine lists, led beverage teams, and orchestrated seamless high-end guest experiences. These roles refined her service finesse and sharpened her leadership, training, and event coordination skills.
As a stewardess, Nicole is proficient in all aspects of the interior, including housekeeping, laundry, provisioning, wine/cocktail service, and table settings. Nicole holds a WSET Level 3 in Wine, Operation Management Certificate from UCT, Yacht Rating Course Completion and Powerboat Level 2 among other maritime and hospitality certifications.
Nicole brings a calm, loyal, and optimistic presence to any team and takes pride in creating a warm, elegant, and organized onboard environment. With a strong eye for aesthetics and guest comfort, she is committed to supporting smooth operations and unforgettable charter experiences.

Hobbies: Cooking, traveling, swimming, nature exploration, DIY projects

Hikaym Rivers | Deck / Stew

BIO: Born and raised in Charleston, SC has always been involved in the arts. He played the flute as well as danced ballet and color guard for about 11 yrs. Before starting his career, he began with a degree in Hospitality Management while performing in the symphonic orchestra and marching band.
With over 10 years of experience in hospitality, Hikaym has worked in a variety of different facets of the service industry, including catering and restaurants, as well as resorts and country clubs. With his affiliation with his university, he has worked in Multiple PGA tournaments, TPC Sawgrass 2021, Kiawah Island PGA 2021, Hilton Head RBC Heritage 2022, & Augusta National - Masters 2022.
In 2023, Hikaym transitioned into yachting, eager to bring his hospitality expertise to the open seas. His true talent is shown in his level of customer service and care. It genuinely shows that he enjoys bringing in his skills to make a memorable experience for the guests. Holding certifications in Wine WSET Lv II, Powerboat Level II, VHF Radio, and Deckhand & Stew training, he is a well-rounded team player in both interior and exterior.

Hobbies: Asian Culture, Environmental Science, Hiking, Ballet, Orchestra, Museums, & Galleries