SOUNDWAVE Yacht Charter — 63m Benetti motor yacht for 12 guests, with a crew of 15

The crew

Meet the crew

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  Timothy Smith

  Captain

  New Zealand · English

  Timothy Smith

  Captain Tim Smith hails from the stunning coastline of New Zealand and brings over 17 years of yachting experience to SOUNDWAVE. Since beginning his maritime career in 2008, Tim has cruised extensively through the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Pacific, maintaining a calm leadership style and in-depth knowledge of the world’s most soughtafter cruising grounds. With a Master 3000GT License and a commitment to safety, professionalism, and top-tier service, Tim ensures that every charter is smooth, enjoyable, and unforgettable. His management style is friendly and approachable, creating a relaxed atmosphere where guests feel at home and the crew thrives as a team. Tim is always eager to share his passion for surfing, fishing and kiteboarding with guests who are up for an adventure. Whether exploring hidden anchorages or crafting bespoke itineraries, Tim is dedicated to delivering a world-class experience to all guests who step onboard SOUNDWAVE.

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  Carlos Miguel Narciso Marquez

  Captain (Rotational)

  Portugal · English, Spanish, Portuguese

  Carlos Miguel Narciso Marquez

  Born and raised in Lisbon, Portugal, Carlos grew up surrounded by a seafaring tradition. He developed a natural affinity for the sea and continues his family's legacy with passion and professionalism. Carlo holds a Master 3000 GT Yacht certificate and brings extensive experience along with a strong leadership presence to SOUNDWAVE. His expertise in deck operations, bridge management, and safety procedures ensures the yacht operates to the highest standard. Before entering the yachting industry, Carlos was a professional kayaker who competed internationally on the world tour for three years. His background in elite-level sport fostered resilience, precision, and a team-first mindset, all of which define his approach on board. Fully fluent in five languages, Carlos is a versatile communicator, well-suited to working with multicultural teams and international guests. Off duty, he enjoys kayaking, sailing, and managing his portfolio of holiday rentals in Portugal.

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  Olivia Stead

  Chief Officer (Rotational)

  United Kingdom · English

  Olivia Stead

  With thirteen years of experience in the yachting industry, Olivia brings a wealth of knowledge, confidence and professionalism to Soundwave's bridge team. Having grown up in the South of France to English parents, she developed a passion for the sea from an early age, racing sailing boats alongside her family before beginning her yachting career at just eighteen years old. Known for her exceptional attention to detail and calm leadership style, Olivia believes that safety is the foundation of every successful operation. She is equally passionate about mentoring others and takes great pride in helping junior crew develop their confidence, skills and careers. Her commitment to teaching and leading by example reflects Soundwave's values of trust, excellence and continuous growth. Away from the yacht, Olivia enjoys spending as much time outdoors as possible. Whether horse riding, hiking to a spectacular viewpoint, diving beneath the surface or kitesurfing across the water, she is happiest embracing adventure and the natural world. Having travelled extensively both professionally and personally, she has developed a genuine appreciation for different cultures and the unique experiences they offer. For Olivia, the guest experience begins long before guests step on board.

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  Declan Clark

  2nd Officer

  Australia · English

  Declan Clark

  Born in Western Australia and raised in Tasmania, Declan brings a life long connection to the ocean and a strong maritime background to his role as 2nd Officer onboard. With over a decade of experience at sea, he combines technical expertise with a calm, solutions-focused approach to leadership and navigation. Declan hold s advanced maritime certifications and has built his career across a range of commercial and government vessels before transitioning into yachting. His diverse experience operating globally has shaped a disciplined yet adaptable style, allowing him to manage complex operations while maintaining a steady and professional presence on the bridge. Onboard, Declan is known for his structured coordination of deck operations and seamless collab oration with the interior and engineering teams. He prioritizes navigational safety, efficiency, and clear communication to ensure smooth daily operations and an enjoyable experience for both guests and crew. Outside of work, Declan leads an active lifestyle and has logged over 250 dives while traveling to more than 66 countries. Passionate about diving, skiing, running, and exploring the outdoors, he embraces every opportunity to experience new environments. With a consistently positive attitude and team-first mindset, he brings reliability, energy, and professionalism to li fe onboard, helping create a safe and welcoming atmosphere for all.

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  Tristan Jonas

  Bosun & Dive Master

  South Africa · English

  Tristan Jonas

  Originally from the coastal city of Port Elizabeth, South Africa, Tristan — known to the crew simply as “Jonas” — brings a wealth of professional dive experience and an easy-going, team-first attitude to Soundwave. A qualified PADI Specialty and EFR Instructor since 2018, he has taught over 150 certifications and logged more than 800 dives around the world. Before joining the yacht, Tristan spent 14 months as a dive instructor and deckhand on a Caribbean liveaboard, guiding guests through unforgettable underwater experiences — from the humpback whale migration in the Dominican Republic to the famed Sardine Run in South Africa. His skills go far beyond guiding dives; he is trained in tank servicing, compressor operation, and leading water-based activities such as kayaking and snorkelling. On deck, Jonas is hands-on and meticulous, assisting with tender operations, mooring, and vessel maintenance. His background as a biology teacher and his passion for marine life and conservation make him a natural at connecting guests to the environments they explore. Outside of work, he leads an active lifestyle, enjoying rugby, golf, surf lifesaving, and exploring new destinations. Jonas embodies Soundwave’s culture of professionalism, adventure, and genuine hospitality — ensuring every guest interaction is memorable both above and below the waterline.

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  Gaye Akdulan

  Lead Deckhand

  Turkey · English

  Gaye Akdulan

  Raised in the sailing town of Göcek, Turkey, Gaye developed a deep connection to the sea from an early age. Growing up on the water and competing in sailing throughout her youth and university years in Istanbul, she built a strong foundation in teamwork, discipline, and adaptability that naturally led her into yachting. Alongside her maritime background, she studied Psychology, giving her a thoughtful understanding of people and a calm, positive approach to life onboard. She believes great guest experiences come from creating the right atmosphere— one that feels welcoming, effortless, and genuine. An active and adventurous person by nature, she enjoys sailing, diving, snowboarding, yoga, fitness, and everything connected to the outdoors and the ocean. Her energy, warm personality, and team-oriented mindset make her someone guests naturally feel comfortable around, whether assisting with activities on the water or helping create memorable moments onboard. Committed, approachable, and passionate about li fe at sea, Gaye takes pride in making every experience both professional and enjoyable for guests and crew alike.

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  Basile Plambrette

  Deckhand

  Belgium · English

  Basile Plambrette

  With a strong connection to the sea and a passion for exploration, Basile brings energy and professionalism to his role onboard. Having trained at the Antwerp Maritime Academy before transitioning into the superyacht industry, he has built his experience through sailing ship voyages, professional deck operations, and hands-on maritime training. Over the past four years he has developed a reputation as a hardworking and reliable crew member who thrives in dynamic environments. Whether keeping the yacht to the highest standards, assisting with watersports or supporting daily operations, he approaches every task with enthusiasm, attention to detail and a strong focus on safety and professionalism. For Basile, the most rewarding part of life onboard is being part of a dedicated team while exploring some of the world's most remarkable destinations. Guests appreciate his positive attitude, approachable nature and genuine willingness to help create memorable experiences. His multilingual abilities and extensive travel experience allow him to connect easily with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Away from work, Basile enjoys staying active through fitness training, cycling, snowboarding and rugby.

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  Filip Sirola

  Eto & Deckhand

  Croatia · English

  Filip Sirola

  Originally from Rijeka, Croatia, Filip serves as the Electro-Technical Officer onboard, responsible for maintaining the vessel's electrical, electronic, and IT systems. With over seven years of experience at sea on both commercial vessels and yachts, he brings strong technical knowledge and a calm, reliable approach to onboard operations. Filip holds maritime electro-technical certifications and has extensive hands-on experience with marine electrical systems, automation, and onboard network infrastructure. Before joining the yachting industry, he worked as an electrical engineer on container vessels and dredgers, building a solid foundation in large-scale marine systems. Onboard, Filip focuses on keeping all systems running smoothly and efficiently, quickly resolving technical issues and ensuring everything operates seamlessly behind the scenes. His calm attitude and problem-solving mindset make him a dependable part of the team. Outside of work, Filip enjoys motorcycling, aviation, and the occasional sailing holiday. Easygoing and positive, he brings a steady presence onboard and is always ready to lend a hand wherever needed.

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  Josh Nolan

  Chief Engineer (Rotational)

  Australia · English

  Josh Nolan

  Originally from Australia and now based in New Zealand, Josh brings over a decade of engineering expertise to Soundwave, having worked on vessels from high-end superyachts to rugged expedition and research ships. Trade-qualified in Light Vehicle, Heavy Diesel, and Plant Mechanic disciplines, he is as comfortable diagnosing complex technical issues as he is rolling up his sleeves for hands-on repairs. His approach reflects Soundwave’s values — calm under pressure, solution-focused, and committed to excellence in every detail. Josh’s career has taken him across the globe, managing main engines, generators, advanced navigation systems, and tenders with precision and care. A natural collaborator, he works seamlessly with the crew to ensure every guest experience is safe, smooth, and unforgettable. Away from the engine room, Josh’s passions include guitar, fishing, and exploring off-road tracks in his 4x4. A skilled car restorer, he once completed a full rebuild of a classic 351 Ford engine — a project that reflects his patience, craftsmanship, and love of a challenge. At home, Josh is a devoted husband and father to two young daughters, whose support inspires his dedication to delivering nothing short of the best while at sea.

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  Oleksandr Schiptsov

  Chief Engineer (Rotational)

  Ukraine · English, Ukrainian

  Oleksandr Schiptsov

  Oleksandr’s maritime career began in 2011 in the commercial shipping sector, working across a variety of vessels before transitioning to the superyacht industry in 2023. His dual qualifications as a Senior Electro-Technical Officer and Second Engineer Unlimited give him a rare depth of expertise, covering both the mechanical and electrical heart of the yacht. With extensive experience in winter shipyard periods, class surveys, and major refit projects, Oleksandr brings precision, reliability, and a problem-solving mindset to every task. Whether he’s ensuring the yacht’s onboard entertainment systems are running flawlessly or lending a hand on deck, he embodies Soundwave’s values of teamwork, adaptability, and excellence. Away from the engine room, Oleksandr is a powerhouse of energy and athleticism. An all-round sports enthusiast, he enjoys volleyball, snowboarding, skiing, wakeboarding, running, cycling, swimming, tennis, table tennis, padel, and badminton. In the gym, he’s known for his pull-ups and dips — and on board, for his competitive streak in chess, where he relishes the challenge of out-thinking his crewmates. Oleksandr’s combination of technical mastery, team spirit, and drive to excel ensures Soundwave is always operating at its best — both behind the scenes and in the guest experience.

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  Luke Harper

  2nd Engineer

  Australia · English

  Luke Harper

  Born in Australia with Maltese heritage, Luke brings calm precision and technical expertise to Soundwave’s engineering team. A qualified Marine Engine Driver with experience across both private and charter yachts, he’s known for his reliability, attention to detail, and steady problem-solving under pressure. Luke’s path into engineering began with a fascination for how things work — a curiosity that’s evolved into a meticulous craft. He combines strong mechanical knowledge with an instinct for innovation, ensuring every system on board runs safely and efficiently. His hands-on experience spans refits, planned maintenance, and electrical troubleshooting, always with a focus on doing things properly, not just quickly. Away from the engine room, Luke is drawn to the water and the outdoors. He enjoys fishing, wakeboarding, and diving — the same quiet focus he brings to his work reflected in how he spends his downtime. On Soundwave, Luke embodies the yacht’s values of trust, respect, and excellence, helping keep every journey running smooth, safe, and seamless.

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  Jose Simon Gelder

  2nd Engineer

  English

  Jose Simon Gelder

  José is the heartbeat of Soundwave's technical operations — and the creative mind behind Soundwave Sessions. With over 15 years of experience across merchant vessels and superyachts, he specialises in mechanics, electricity, and hydraulics, combining engineering precision with a natural gift for problem-solving. His career spans major shipyard projects, complex repairs, and rigorous maintenance programs, all carried out with a commitment to safety, efficiency, and teamwork. But José's talents extend far beyond the engine room. A professional percussionist, versatile music producer, and DJ, he crafts rhythms from salsa and Latin beats to afrobeat, reggaeton, and pop. His YouTube channel, with over 50,000 subscribers, showcases his dedication to sharing musical knowledge with a global audience. Onboard Soundwave, this passion has found a new stage — he is the driving force behind the concept, design, and creative energy of Soundwave Sessions, blending his maritime career with his love for music in a way that is entirely unique to the industry. When he's not tuning an engine or perfecting a track, José can be found in the gym or lifting the crew's spirits with his infectious energy. For him, the sea and music share the same essence: rhythm, flow, and the power to move people. In both worlds, José strives to give his absolute best — ensuring that Soundwave operates flawlessly and sounds unforgettable.

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  Ana Grivic

  Chief Stewardess (Rotational)

  Montenegro · English

  Ana Grivic

  Born and raised in the Bay of Boka along the Adriatic coast, Ana brings a natural elegance and discipline to Soundwave shaped from an early life in ballet. Beginning her training at just four years old, she dedicated 16 years to the art, developing the poise, attention to detail, and quiet resilience that now define her approach to luxury service. Introduced to yachting in 2015 by her uncle, who is a Captain, Ana entered the industry with no long-term expectations yet quickly found her place at sea. A decade later, her journey has taken her across the Mediterranean, over the Atlantic, and throughout the Caribbean and East Coast of the United States, building a well-rounded and global perspective on hospitality. Ana is known for her ability to create a seamless onboard experience, even in the most demanding environments. Her progression through the ranks reflects both her work ethic and her clear ambition to lead, with her long-term goal set on heading an interior department. On Soundwave, Ana is precision, discipline, and dedication. Whether behind the scenes or in guest-facing service, for Ana every detail matters and every guest experience is an opportunity to deliver something truly exceptional.

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  Simal Kanoglu

  2nd Stewardess

  Turkey · English

  Simal Kanoglu

  Originally from the beautiful coastal town of Göcek, Turkey, she developed a love for the sea from an early age. Now in her sixth year in the yachting industry, she has gained experience across a variety of yachts and roles, combining attentive guest service with strong seamanship skills to support all aspects of life on board. Before joining the industry, she studied Econometrics at university and worked as a Coordinator for a timber construction company. These experiences strengthened her organizational skills, adaptability, and attention to detail, all of which contribute to delivering seamless service on board. She thrives in the dynamic environment of yachting and values being part of a positive, hardworking team, believing that exceptional guest experiences begin with a happy crew. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, cycling, yoga, functional training, aerial hoop, and making the most of the ocean through scuba diving, kayaking, and wakeboarding. She believes genuine hospitality is built on kindness, teamwork, and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere where every guest feels completely at home.

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  Khanh Pham

  3rd Stewardess

  Vietnam · English

  Khanh Pham

  Born in the heart of Saigon, Vietnam, Khanh brings the warmth, energy, and cultural richness of Southeast Asia to life on board Soundwave. With over seven years of experience in luxury hospitality, she combines refined service skills with a natural ability to connect with guests from all walks of life. An International Relations graduate, Khanh offers a unique perspective that blends cultural awareness with the art of hospitality. She has made her mark in the global beverage scene as Vietnam's first female World Class award-winning bartender, a reflection of both her creativity and precision. Driven by a passion for the ocean and a love for meaningful connection, Khanh specializes in creating what she calls "golden moments" — experiences that stay with guests long after their journey ends. Whether through exceptional service, storytelling, or her craft behind the bar, she ensures every guest feels both cared for and inspired. On Soundwave, Khanh stands for culture, connection, and elevated guest experience. She brings a deep appreciation for diversity and uses it to shape meaningful, personalized moments. Whether through her cocktails or warm atmosphere, she transforms service into an experience that is both memorable and distinctly personal.

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  Victoria Santos

  Junior Stewardess

  United States · English

  Victoria Santos

  Born between worlds with Portuguese, American, and Brazilian roots, Victoria brings a natural warmth, cultural fluency, and effortless adaptability to Soundwave's interior team. Raised across Portugal and the United States, her upbringing instilled in her a genuine curiosity about people and places that has shaped everything she has done since. Victoria's path has been defined by movement and connection. From years dedicated to dance and theatre, which taught her precision, discipline, and the art of creating moments that linger, to living and working across the United States, Portugal, the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Australia, she has always immersed herself in each experience not as a visitor, but as someone who truly belongs. It was through these years that she discovered hospitality not as a profession, but as a calling. With over ten years of experience in high-end international hospitality across waitress, bartender, and barista roles, Victoria brings both technical precision and genuine passion to her craft. Her knowledge of mixology and wine reflects her belief that a perfectly crafted drink, like great service, is an act of care. On Soundwave, Victoria brings her love of people, her passion for culture, and her dedication to craft, alongside the quiet joy of finally living a dream she has carried for over a decade.

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  Lisa Duangjan

  Spa Stewardess

  Thailand · English

  Lisa Duangjan

  Lisa brings a calming presence to Soundwave's wellness offering, combining her Thai heritage with a strong foundation in luxury spa therapy. Originally from Thailand, she began her career in 2018 after training at Banyan Tree Academy and has since spent over five years working within the renowned Banyan Tree brand, gaining valuable experience in high-end spa environments. Skilled in a wide range of treatments, Lisa offers everything from traditional Thai and oil massages to body scrubs, wraps, facials, and basic nail services. Her approach is centered around creating a deeply relaxing and personalized experience for each guest, while continually refining her skills and expanding her knowledge within the wellness space. Warm, adaptable and always positive, Lisa is a valued member of the team who takes pride in delivering consistently high standards of service. She thrives in a team environment and brings a gentle, attentive energy to everything she does. Outside of work Lisa enjoys travelling with her family and spending time in nature, drawing inspiration from the world around her. For Lisa, wellness is about balance, care, and connection. Her dedication adds a unique sense of tranquility to life onboard, ensuring guests leave Soundwave feeling restored, refreshed, and truly looked after.

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  Esha Lenggana

  Head Chef (Rotational)

  Indonesia · English

  Esha Lenggana

  Hailing from the beautiful islands of Indonesia, Esha brings a rare fusion of cultural warmth, artistic precision, and world-class culinary skill to Soundwave's galley. Originally trained in architecture, his sharp eye for design and balance now translates into his dishes — where flavour, texture, and presentation are crafted with equal care. While his roots are in Indonesian cooking, Esha's true culinary signature lies in his mastery of Japanese cuisine. From delicate sashimi to perfectly balanced sushi rice, he combines traditional techniques with modern creativity, producing dishes that are as exquisite to look at as they are to taste. His approach is meticulous, blending seasonal ingredients with the philosophy of harmony that underpins Japanese cooking. Self-taught (otodidak) and mentored by a highly skilled chef early in his career, Esha has spent years refining his skills, both on land and at sea. In the dynamic world of yachting, he thrives under pressure, delivering consistently exceptional dining experiences — whether an intimate omakase tasting for a few guests or a vibrant fusion banquet. Off duty, Esha experiments with new flavour combinations, draws inspiration from global cuisines, and keeps his competitive spirit alive watching his favourite football team. With his calm professionalism and dedication to culinary perfection, he ensures that every meal aboard Soundwave is an unforgettable journey.

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  David Campos

  Head Chef (Rotational)

  Colombia · English

  David Campos

  David brings creativity, precision, and a global culinary perspective to his role as Head Chef onboard Soundwave. Originally from Colombia, he combines refined technique with a genuine passion for creating memorable dining experiences, drawing on his background across fine dining restaurants, cruise ships, and luxury yachts. With advanced training in Culinary Arts and Kitchen Management, alongside additional experience in pastry and plant-based cuisine, David is constantly evolving his craft. His career began in high-end restaurants before transitioning to cruise ships and luxury vessels, giving him a strong foundation in delivering restaurant-quality cuisine within the fast-paced and dynamic environment of life at sea. Organised, calm, and focused, David leads the galley with confidence and consistency. He is known for his ability to balance creativity with precision, exploring global flavours while presenting dishes with refined, elegant plating — always with exceptional taste at the forefront. His approach ensures that every meal on board feels both elevated and thoughtfully curated. Outside of the galley, David enjoys swimming, discovering new restaurants, reading culinary books, and staying active. For him, food is about connection, creativity, and experience. His passion and dedication bring a vibrant energy to Soundwave, turning every dining moment into something truly special for guests on board.

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  Elin Enqvist

  Sous Chef

  Finland · English

  Elin Enqvist

  Raised on Finland's west coast, Elin's relationship with food and rhythm comes from a life shaped by seasons, simplicity, and balance. Summers were spent foraging berries in the forests, winters skiing, cooking, and unwinding in the sauna, an upbringing that instilled patience, resilience, and a deep respect for craft. Elin brings calm competence and quiet confidence to the Soundwave galley. Trained in gastronomy and culinary arts, she approaches cooking as a form of architecture, where flavor, timing, and atmosphere come together to create a complete experience, not just a plate of food. Pastry is her passion, and she's known onboard for turning birthdays and milestones into moments worth remembering. Highly dependable and unflappable under pressure, Elin thrives in busy seasons, supports the galley as a true team player, and brings a steady, positive energy to long days and tight turnarounds. She doesn't sit still when there's work to be done, and she does it all with a smile. Off duty, Elin enjoys reading, quiet moments on deck, and watching the sun drop below the horizon, a reflection of the balance she brings to both her cooking and her presence onboard. Her calm reliability, warmth, and attention to detail align seamlessly with Soundwave's values of trust, respect, and excellence.