NAMASTE

Captain - Scott Schwaner
Nationality: American
Languages: English

Education/Certifications: College L.S.U, U.S.C.G. 3000to All Oceans

Scott was born in Mandeville on the shores of Lake Pontchartrain. Although he had siblings, he was largely raised as an only child. His father served as Commodore of their yacht club, and as a result, Scott was introduced to sailing at the age of six.

Before working on boats, he was Chef de Cuisine of the city of New Orleans. Also, a winner of the first Concours du Chef in Monaco.

He has always had an interest for yachts and entered the industry in 1980. In 1990, he earned his 100-ton Captain's license and steadily advanced his qualifications over the years, ultimately obtaining a 3,000-ton license, which he has held for the past 27 years.

Scott previously worked on 213’ ATOMIC, 173’ EMELINA, 144’ LADY GAYLE MARIE, 144’ MIM, and is currently a Captain on board 121’ NAMASTE. His extensive cruising experience includes Florida’s East Coast, the Bahamas, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Asia, and Antarctica.

Scott’s greatest asset as a Captain is his 46 years of experience, combined with a genuine passion for the profession he truly loves. His goal is for every charter to be memorable, sharing his love of the ocean, exploration, and the yachting lifestyle while ensuring guests have the best possible experience.

He’s achieved everything that he wanted to in yachting and his next plan will be to visit all the places he’s been, on his own boat.

Scott’s hobbies are boats, just boats.

His life motto is: “Happy for each day”.



Mate - Ronald “Ross” Conrad Crouse
Nationality: South African
Languages: English

Education/Certifications: Bachelor of Commerce in Economics and International Trade. Marine qualifications: Yachtmaster offshore (RYA/MCA), STCW + PDSD, RYA PWC, RYA Diesel Engine, RYA Radar

Ronald “Ross” Conrad Crouse grew up on a farm in northern South Africa, where his early life was shaped by the outdoors. With a father who kept him out of the house, Ross spent his childhood building things, exploring nature, and riding his motorcycle through the fields, developing independence and practical skills from a young age. An all-round sportsman, he played rugby, cricket, hockey, and tennis throughout school and university. He held the U/19 school record for javelin and was selected for the school’s First Rugby Team, reflecting his athletic ability, teamwork, and determination. His professions before yachting included property development and working as a real estate practitioner.

He began his yachting career in 2022, inspired by a period of reflection during the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many, the global disruption prompted him to re-evaluate his priorities and seek a path that offered both personal fulfillment and adventure.

Introduced to the yachting industry by a cousin already working in the field, Ross was immediately drawn to the opportunity to work with people from diverse cultures, travel the world, and grow both personally and professionally, all while being at sea. He previously worked on S/Y ZOKU and M/Y QUEEN D and currently a Mate aboard M/Y NAMASTE.

He is a dedicated Mate who puts safety, smooth operations, and an exceptional guest experience at the heart of everything he does. With a positive attitude and strong work ethic, he leads by example and creates a supportive, team-oriented atmosphere on board. Ross also loves taking guests fishing on the 32’ Intrepid Center Console, fully rigged with braided line and outriggers, sharing his knowledge of the best spots and techniques to make every trip a fun and memorable adventure.

With experience running charters throughout the Caribbean and New England, he values the unique appeal of each destination, especially those that offer hiking and natural beauty, like Peru.

Passionate about fitness and the outdoors, he enjoys sharing his knowledge of watersports and wellness, ensuring guests leave feeling relaxed, recharged, and with unforgettable memories.

His motto in life is “Stop dreaming and start doing”. Encourages turning aspirations into reality.


Chef: Matthew “Matt” Rolnick
Nationality: American
Languages: English

Description:

Education / Certifications: STCW 95, ENG1, Food Handling Certification Level 2. Culinary training at The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale

Chef Matt Rolnick is a distinguished private chef originally from South Florida, now based in Los Angeles, known for bringing culinary visions to life with precision, creativity, and heart.

A graduate of the Art Institute in Fort Lauderdale, Matt honed his craft across fine-dining kitchens, luxury yachts, and high-profile professional sports teams, including serving as chef for the Florida Panthers.

With over 15 years of training and culinary experience across Italy, Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, and Peru, Matt’s globally inspired style emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients, Mediterranean and Asian influences, and nutrition-conscious cuisine, all thoughtfully tailored to meet his clients’ individual preferences and dietary needs with bold flavors.

Matt’s career highlights include commanding the galley on yachts ranging from 80’ to 130’, overseeing complete culinary operations, from menu development and provisioning to fine-dining execution and winning Food Network’s Chopped (Season 56).

He has earned a reputation for creating meals that are both exquisite and personal, blending technical skill with a warm, approachable service style.

Passionate about the art of cooking, Matt believes that great food is a reflection of care, love, and attention to detail. Whether crafting an intimate dinner or a multi-course tasting experience, he brings energy, ambition, and a global flair to every plate, ensuring every client enjoys a memorable and elevated dining experience.

Matt’s quote: “Powerful and ambitious chef looking to please clients with the lovely flavors of the world.”


Chief Engineer - Duvaughn Chin
Nationality: Jamaican
Languages: English

Education/Certifications: STCW 95, ENG 1, STCW Class 3 UNLIMITED, Proficiency in Security Awareness, Proficiency in Security Duties, The Republic of the Marshall Islands Endorsement, Cayman Islands Endorsement

Meet Duvaughn, a highly skilled and experienced engineer, hailing from the picturesque island of Jamaica. He embarked on his maritime journey after graduating from Caribbean Maritime University in 2013, where four years of rigorous studies paved the way for his career in the maritime industry. Duvaughn's professional journey commenced on commercial vessels, including containers, product tankers, and bulk carriers, where he honed his technical expertise. However, a thirst for a new challenge and a passion for luxury vessels led him to transition to the world of super yachts.

As the engineer on board, Duvaughn takes on the vital responsibility of ensuring the seamless operation and maintenance of the yacht's intricate machinery and systems. His extensive experience has led him to become highly skilled in troubleshooting and problem-solving, swiftly handling any technical issue that arises, ensuring the yacht runs safely and efficiently.

Beyond his technical prowess, Duvaughn is known for his warm and welcoming demeanor, coupled with a mature and enthusiastic nature, which makes him a true pleasure to have on board. His professionalism and friendly approach contribute to his status as a valued member of any crew. His dedication to ensuring the safety and comfort of guests onboard will provide peace of mind for all those who set sail with him.

In his spare time, you can find him actively engaging in water sports like water skiing, and wakeboarding, or concentrating on his fitness.



Chief Stewardess - Christelle van Zyl
Nationality: South African
Languages: English, Afrikaans

Education: SYSA Interior Introduction Course, STCW & PDSD, RYA PWC, Food Hygiene, Health and Safety Level 2, Mixology and Wine Course, Degree in Businesses Management and Marketing Science, Diploma in Self Brand Management, Diploma in Photographic Design, New York.

Christelle grew up on a farm in South Africa, where her family cultivated apples, pears, peaches, prunes, onions, and raised sheep. From a young age, she developed a deep love for nature and was often found in the garden. The youngest of three, with two older brothers, Christelle shares a close bond with her family, especially through their shared passion for sports and staying active, something she values for both physical and mental well-being.

While studying Business Management and Marketing Science, she worked at the prestigious Rust en Vrede wine estate, gaining experience in fine dining and hosting wine tastings for international guests. After completing her degree, Christelle moved to the U.S. to work as an au pair, then transitioned into the yachting industry in 2023, inspired by friends already in the field.

Since then, she has worked on M/Y HIGHLANDER, M/Y ROCKIT, M/Y QUEEN D, and currently serves as Chief Stewardess aboard M/Y NAMASTE. Her role includes maintaining pristine guest and crew areas, managing uniforms and supplies, and overseeing provisioning to ensure the highest standards onboard. She also participated in a nine-month liveaboard program, gaining hands-on, immersive experience.

Christelle brings energy, positivity, and a deep appreciation for nature to her work. She believes in the power of teamwork, enthusiasm, and a motivated mindset to create a warm, welcoming environment. Her goal is always to ensure that everyone onboard feels relaxed, cared for, and truly able to disconnect from daily stress.

Her travels have taken her to beautiful destinations including Saint Barths, the BVI’s, the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, and Puerto Rico—though Saint Barths and the BVI’s remain her favorites for their natural beauty and vibrant energy. Outside of yachting, Christelle is passionate about personal growth and adventure. A highlight was hiking the Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu, a major bucket-list achievement.

Looking ahead, she hopes to grow in the yachting industry, eventually transition to a remote career using her degree, and one day open her own jewellery shop, a long held dream. Her vision for the future includes building a home surrounded by nature, starting a family, and living a peaceful, fulfilling life.
Her ultimate goal onboard is simple: to make guests feel completely at ease. Whether it's waking up without an alarm, diving into the ocean, or returning to a refreshing drink, Christelle aims to create experiences that leave lasting memories.

Her motto in life is “Let your head rise beyond the trees into the clouds, but keep your feet firmly on the ground”. “Look up to the moon and stars, no matter where you are or what you're going through, remember: everything is temporary, and tomorrow will be different”.



Second Stewardess - Kristin Emslie
Nationality: South African
Languages: English

Description:
Education/Certifications: Bcom Degree in Hospitality Management, STEW, ENG 1, Crowd Management and Passenger Safety, Food & Safety Level 2

Elizabeth grew up in the beautiful coastal city of Port Elizabeth, where the ocean’s rhythm and the warmth of a close-knit family shaped her early years. Her childhood was filled with adventure, from exploring scenic hiking trails and volunteering as a lifesaver along the beaches to nurturing her passion for modeling.

As she grew older, Elizabeth discovered a love for hospitality, working primarily in event planning and coordination. Her passion for creating memorable experiences, combined with her lifelong connection to the ocean, naturally led her to a career in yachting in 2024.

Since then, she has gained valuable experience working aboard several vessels, including M/Y ATTESSA IV, M/Y REHAB, M/Y AZTECA, and is currently serving as second stewardess on M/Y NAMASTE.

As a stewardess, her goal is to ensure that every guest leaves with lasting memories, a genuine connection to the ocean, the yacht lifestyle, and a desire to return, knowing they were in the best hands possible. She aspires to one day become a Chief Stewardess and, later in life, to apply the knowledge and experience gained from yachting to a career in the events industry.

In her free time, Elizabeth enjoys snorkeling, hiking, swimming, and practicing yoga.

Kristin's personal motto "Live life to the fullest".



Deckhand: Pieter Labuschagne
Nationality: South African
Languages: English, Afrikaans

Description:

Education/Certifications: RYA Yachtmaster, AEC 1 & AEC 2 (Approved Engine Course), STCW Basic Safety Training, ENG1 Seafarer Medical Certificate, Powerboat Level 2, PWC Instructor certification, and PADI Open Water Diver

Pieter grew up in Gauteng, South Africa, where he developed a strong sense of discipline and an active lifestyle, later becoming a certified personal trainer. His early love of the ocean, travel, fishing, and watersports inspired him to pursue a career in yachting straight after finishing school, allowing him to combine his passions while working alongside diverse crews and meeting interesting people along the way.

Since entering the industry, Pieter has worked on both private and charter motor yachts, cruising throughout the Caribbean and the Bahamas, but his favorite place on earth remains the South African coastline, where the rugged ocean landscapes and wildlife create an unforgettable environment.

As a deckhand, Pieter is responsible for all aspects of deck operations, including docking, anchoring, tender driving, and maintaining the yacht’s exterior to the highest standards. He ensures guest areas are always safe while actively assisting with fun watersports and onboard activities. Pieter strives to create unforgettable charters through professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine hospitality. He particularly enjoys preparing excursions, setting up watersports, and sharing his love of fishing and exploring new coastal destinations with guests.

Pieter aims to grow into a highly skilled and well-rounded crew member, with a long-term goal of advancing into more senior roles focused on vessel operations, engineering, and leadership. Outside of yachting, he has a strong interest in entrepreneurship and ocean-focused projects, particularly those supporting marine conservation.

Outside of work, Pieter is passionate about fitness, the ocean, and outdoor adventures. He enjoys staying active through strength training, swimming, and a variety of ocean sports, as well as fishing. He also has a strong interest in mechanical systems and vessel operations, always looking to expand his practical knowledge.

His life motto is: ”Discipline and consistency create excellence." as he believes that maintaining high standards every day - even in the small details - is what ultimately leads to success both personally and professionally.