Menu

Our Team

Unsurpassed levels of service and cuisine.

Scroll down

Aboard MIRAGE, charter guests can relax and enjoy the superyacht experience knowing they are in safe, experienced hands. With more than a 1:1 crew to guest ratio, her expert team of 15 provide unsurpassed levels of service and cuisine, ensuring the varying requirements of any group are not only met but exceeded. From celebrating special occasions to trying out her array of watertoys, a crew member is always on hand throughout your stay on board. 

Colin Richardson

Captain

More
Steve Emmerich

Captain

More
Daniel Hall
Head Chef
More
Elouise Daniel
Head Chef
More
Mark Bevis
Chief Engineer
More
Andy Ingle
Chief engineer
More
Nikolina Brozovic
Chief Stewardess
More
Jojo Simpson
Chief Stewardess
More
Ben Dickerson

First Mate

More
Chris Booker

First Mate

More
Tea Majic
Second Stewardess
More

Geromine Decuq 

Sous Chef

More
Nico Scheepers

BOSUN / KITESURF INSTRUCTOR

More

Kieran Elliott

ETO / Second Engineer
More

Addison King 

ETO / SECOND ENGINEER

More

Zaira Ruiz 

DECKHAND / DIVE INSTRUCTOR

More
Lutho Thomas

Deckhand / Sailing Instructor

More

Nick Southwood

DECKHAND

More

Bianca Verster

STEWARDESS

More

Jessica Weaver 

STEWARDESS / MASSAGE THERAPIST
More

Piper Jackson 

STEWARDESS / Fitness instructor

More
Colin Richardson

Captain

Nationality: British
Languages: English/ Afrikaans

Colin was born in the UK although he spent his childhood growing up in South Africa. He spent 10 years sailing professionally until 1997 and then spent the next 7 years running various sailing boats in South East Asia.

Colin has over 30 years of experience in the maritime industry and has cruised extensively all over the world. He was in command of a Perini-Navi in 2005 and then went on to Captaining M/Y PASSION for 7 years.

Among his numerous qualifications, he holds a PADI Divemaster, MCA 3000 Tonne Captain’s license as well as a RYA Jet Ski and Level II Powerboat Instructor. As a result,  MIRAGE can issue jet ski licenses for the duration of your trip.

Colin combines his extensive experience and qualifications to guarantee a fun-filled, memorable vacation.  He is always cheerful and great fun to be around and ensures that his crew all maintain the same positivity and professionalism that he does. He places a strong emphasis on planning, organisation and training to ensure impeccable vessel preparation and presentation. Colin handpicks highly qualified and motivated crew to cater to your every need.

When on land he lives in Warsash, UK with his wife and two children.

Colin joined M/Y Mirage in 2012.

Steve Emmerich

Captain

Nationality: German

Languages: English, German, Spanish

Steve was born in Germany and grew up in South Africa. Steve is an accomplished yachtsman whose growing passion for sailing sparked at the age of 23, when he completed his first trans-Atlantic crossing as skipper on his parent’s catamaran. This experience ignited a desire to embark on a yachting career and over 30 years on, Steve continues to be inspired by the many different aspects of the maritime industry. In 1996 Steve became 2nd Officer on M/Y Lady Moura, at the time one of the largest yachts in the world, and was promoted to 1st Officer in 2002. As Captain of M/Y Mirage, Steve uses his broad experience and passion for his job to ensure you have a great time on-board. Steve leads by example and he and his crew always give their very best to not only meet but exceed your needs and expectations. He is brilliantly personable and is always delighted to share recommendations and advice on itineraries, anchorages, excursions and activities. Steve works diligently to plan and carry out your perfect trip. Steve is a huge rock music fan and attends many concerts when he’s on land. He also likes to spend as much time as possible with his wife and two wonderful boys. Steve joined Mirage in 2014

Daniel Hall

Head Chef

Nationality: British
Languages: English

Daniel brings over 26 years’ experience to the role of Head Chef on Mirage. His career started under the guidance of Scottish Chef Nick Nairn where at the age of 19 he became the youngest Head Chef of a Michelin starred restaurant in Scotland.

Since then he has worked in a number of high-profile roles including Group Executive Chef for Compass Group, Private Chef to Peter Newton of Newton vineyard in Napa Valley CA, Head Chef on the Orient Express Royal Scotsman Luxury Train.

His last land-based role was based in Glasgow where he was Executive Head Chef of the 5 Star Blythswood Square Hotel. In between these positions Daniel has also lived and worked throughout South America, Japan and Spain. Eight years ago, Daniel transitioned across into the superyacht industry and has worked on a variety of prestigious yachts including Maltese Falcon, Mary Jean II, Tango and Entourage.

Daniel is passionate about personalising your dining experience onboard using his vast practical experience and knowledge of cuisines from around the world. When not onboard he can be found at home with his family in Athens, Greece.

Daniel joined M/Y Mirage in 2019.

Elouise Daniel

Head Chef

Nationality: British 
Languages: English

Elouise was born in Bath in the UK, a beautiful city named after its Roman built baths. Elouise started her career working under a Michelin star chef at a high end seafood restaurant. Here she gained a lot  of enthusiasm for chef work which led her to work at other various top restaurants,  as well as working as a private chef.

 Her love of travel led her to a ski season in Verbier working as a sole chef in a luxury ski chalet. She naturally transitioned to the yachting industry after this.

Elouise focuses on Mediterranean cuisine, but she adores a wide variety of cuisines holding authentic ingredients, flavors and cooking processes paramount. She also sources inspiration from her interest in nutrition, fermentation, preserving and plant based cooking techniques. 

In her free time, Elouise enjoys hiking, reading, music and wild swimming.

Mark Bevis

Chief Engineer

Nationality: British
Languages: English, Spanish

Mark grew up in Warsash, UK– a beautiful town located on the famous Solent Waters, which naturally sparked his passion for boats.

Immediately after graduating from school, Mark enthusiastically began his five-year Marine Engineering Apprenticeship which later led him to a successful career in the yachting industry.

Mark has been a Chief Engineer for over 21 years and has worked all over the world. Some of Mark’s best qualities include great trouble-shooting skills, a willingness to always help others and offer extensive knowledge of M/Y Mirage. So make sure you don’t miss his famous Engine Room Tour!

In addition to all things engineering, Mark is a keen walker and always at hand to share his knowledge of local walking trails with guests.

When not working, he enjoys spending time with his family as well as fresh-water fishing on his self-built boat.

Mark joined M/Y Mirage in 2013.

Andy Ingle

Chief Engineer

Nationality: South African
Languages: English, Afrikaans

Born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa, Andy has always had a passion for the outdoors.

His analytical and inquiring nature steered him to qualify in IT Engineering which further developed his trouble-shooting and logical skills. Over the next few years, Andy gained extensive experience within the IT field working as a Technical Manager before pursuing a yachting career in 2014.

Yachting has taken Andy to various places around the world, including the Caribbean and USA, as well as Europe, Mediterranean and Adriatic Seas. Andy initially joined the team on M/Y Mirage as an Electrical Technical Officer/ Second Engineer but after a few years of proving his great professionalism and further expanding his skill sets, he successfully qualified to become a Chief Engineer.

Andy’s composed nature and can-do attitude, coupled with his troubleshooting abilities ensure a safe and smooth operating environment onboard. He is always delighted to share interesting facts about the M/Y Mirage and always looks forward to welcoming guests on the Engine Room Tour!

Andy joined Mirage in 2015.

Nikolina Brozovic

Chief Stewardess

Nationality: Croatian
Languages: English & Croatian

Nina comes from Ogulin, a serene mountain town in central Croatia, yet her spirit always gravitated towards the sea. Spending seven dynamic years as a PR and sports entertainer at a coastal resort, she seamlessly blended adventure with charm. 

During this time, she also pursued a professional handball career for eighteen years, alongside completing her studies in Landscape Architecture and earning a graduate diploma from Fitness University in Rijeka, Croatia.

In 2017, Nina embarked on a new chapter with Mirage, swiftly ascending the ranks to Chief Stewardess by 2021. Renowned for her infectious positivity, unwavering drive, and commitment to teamwork, Nina shines in orchestrating group activities and setting impeccable standards of service.

In her time off, fueled by a thirst for new experiences, Nina’s life is a whirlwind of constant travel, outdoor adventures, dedicated work on her photography and design side business, and fulfilling volunteer work at local animal charities.

Jojo Simpson

Chief Stewardess

Nationality: British
Languages: English

Jojo grew up in a small sailing village on the Isle of Wight where she grew her love for the sea, she also grew up on the outskirts of London in the beautiful county of Surrey, moving in between both areas.

Growing up she was a very active girl and excelled in many sports including dancing. In 2014, she followed her dream of becoming a professional dancer working in theaters across London. Through dancing Jojo discovered her passion for exercise and decided to complete her fitness, pilates and personal training certificates. Combining her two loves, she worked onboard cruise ships for over 2 years as a health instructor cruising around the Caribbean, Baltics and the Canary Islands. 

By demonstrating her excellent work ethic and eagerness to learn, she was promoted to Chief     Stewardess on board Mirage. Jojo’s extensive experience and passionate attitude about delivering high-end service will ensure that your every need onboard is tended to in order to create an unforgettable trip.

When not onboard Jojo enjoys hiking,tennis, watersports and playing the piano.

She looks forward to welcoming guests onboard with great enthusiasm! 

Ben Dickerson

First Mate

Nationality: American
Languages: English

Ben was born and raised in New Jersey, famous for its beautiful beaches, great food and diverse culture.

Ben was first introduced to boating by his father at a young age. He has worked in the yachting industry for over 15 years, which makes him a highly experienced and skillful crewmember.

Some of his previous vessels include M/Y Highlander, M/Y Passion and M/Y Trafalgar where he was the captain for 3 years. Ben holds his MCA Chief Mate 3000 Ton License and is presently working towards his Masters 3000 Ton License. He is also an advanced PADI Diver.

Leading his deck team of four, Ben is dedicated to making your experience on-board exceed your expectations. An active outdoorsman, Ben enjoys wakeboarding, snowboarding, camping, rock climbing and white-water rafting. When not onboard Ben enjoys spending time with his wife and two little boys in Canada.

Ben joined M/Y Mirage in 2015.

Chris Booker

First Mate

Nationality: Australian
Languages: English

Chris was born and raised near the Gold Coast, Australia and from a very young age the ocean played a large role in his life.

After finishing his schooling, he headed into the construction industry where he gained a lot of practical skills. However, his love for the ocean combined with his outdoor personality led him into the yachting industry in 2014.

Chris travelled to Europe to commence his yachting career, which involved extensive Mediterranean & Australian cruising; simultaneously obtaining his RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Qualification in 2017.

Chris joined Mirage in 2018 as Bosun and having attained his Officer of the Watch Qualification in 2019 has climbed the ranks and promoted to First Mate. Chris’ knowledge of the yachting industry combined with his responsible nature ensures all your activities are enjoyed in a safe and meticulous fashion during your stay. Leading his team of four, he is always at hand to assist with all your water sports needs or any questions you may have.

When not on board Chris enjoys taking time out to travel back to Australia to spend time with his 13-year-old daughter. Chris is a keen skateboarder and wakeboarder and enjoys keeping active. 

Tea Majic

Second Stewardess

Nationality: Croatian
Languages: English & Croatian

Tea’s roots trace back to Klis, a quaint village near Split, Croatia, where she spent her childhood surrounded by beauty. In early 2022, she proudly graduated from Aspira University with a master’s degree in Hotel and Tourism Management, earning recognition with a Dean’s award for her dedication to learning about the intricacies of the tourism industry.

 

Upon joining Mirage, Tea’s diligent work ethic and meticulous attention to detail quickly propelled her to the role of second stew. Here, she shines as a valuable team member, sharing her expertise with newcomers and ensuring smooth operations from the outset.

 

Outside of her professional pursuits, Tea finds solace and joy in the warmth of the sun and the embrace of the outdoors. Whether strolling along the seaside or trekking through the mountains, she embraces the natural world with open arms. It’s this love for nature, coupled with her extensive background in various hospitality sectors such as villas and events, that drew her to the yachting industry. With a passion for delivering the highest standard of hospitality, Tea’s journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence.

Geromine Decuq

SOUS CHEF

Nationality: French

Languages: English & French

Geromine hails from Hong Kong but has cultivated a global lifestyle, having resided in Mumbai, Tokyo, Johannesburg, Seoul, London, and Paris. Embracing the nomadic life, she relishes the opportunity to immerse herself in diverse cultures and marvel at the unique beauty each locale offers.

Her culinary journey began in her childhood, as she delighted in crafting intricate cakes and pastries for her parents’ gatherings. This passion led her to pursue a degree in entrepreneurship and pastry from the esteemed Ferrandi Paris of Culinary Arts.

For Geromine, the role of sous chef is the pinnacle of her culinary ambitions. It affords her the chance to hone her skills under the guidance of the head chef, while also allowing her to indulge her wanderlust and bring joy to her colleagues through her culinary creations.

Beyond the kitchen, Geromine finds solace in surfing, literature, and the great outdoors. Her ultimate career aspiration is to transform her grandfather’s home in Essaouira, Morocco, into a boutique hotel and restaurant. To achieve this dream, she seeks to acquire the refined expertise of the yachting industry, blending high-end hospitality with her culinary flair.

Nico Scheepers
BOSUN & KITESURF INSTRUCTOR

Nationality: South African
Languages: English

Nico was born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa. After finishing school, he gained practical skills in the electrical and refrigeration industries before pursuing a career as an operations manager in the medical consumables and pharmaceuticals industry.

Living on the infamous “Kitebeach” in Bloubergstrand led Nico to find his passion for big air kitesurfing and during his years in the corporate world found a love for teaching others to kitesurf. In 2018 Nico became an IKO kitesurf instructor and decided to follow his love for kitesurfing and begin his superyacht career in Florida.

Nico successfully achieved his YachtMaster Offshore in 2019 and during the winter of 2020 he completed many other course certificates such as EDH, ECDIS and GSK.

Nico loves being active and will ride any and every board he can get his hands on. Always friendly and eager to ensure there are smiles all around Nico is available to assist you with any water sport activities you may wish to try out during your time onboard.

Nico joined M/Y Mirage in 2019.

Kieran Elliot
ETO / SECOND ENGINEER

Nationality: Welsh

Languages: English, Welsh

Kieran was born in the seaside town of Llanelli in South Wales where he grew to love the sea and exploring the outdoors. In 2012 he started an apprenticeship in electrical engineering and studied at the University of Wales, Trinity St David. After 10 years of studying and working on land, his love for travel made him want to pursue a career in yachting as an engineer. Making his way to Palma, Mallorca, Kieran has spent the winter on Mirage and is looking forward to heading into the summer season. He assists the chief engineer with the maintenance and smooth operation of the yacht, as well as maintaining a wide range of complex onboard electronic and electrical equipment.

Kieran enjoys keeping fit and playing many sports including football, golf and hiking. From a young age he played electric guitar and also played snooker for his country up to the age of 14.

Kieran joined M/Y Mirage in 2021.

Addison King 

ETO / SECOND ENGINEER

Nationality: British
Languages: English & Spanish 

Addison’s journey began in Darlington, United Kingdom, but it was the move to the sun-kissed shores of Marbella in Malaga, Spain that truly ignited his passion for the outdoors and travel. Growing up along the coast, surrounded by the beauty of the ocean and nature, he found his heart drawn to exploration.

 

With over a decade of experience in engineering, Addison honed his skills while earning his control and instrumentation degree in electronics, mechanical, and electrical engineering through AWE (Atomic Weapons Establishment), where he dedicated six years of service.

 

In his leisure time, Addison thrives in the great outdoors, whether teeing off on the golf course, tackling mountain biking trails, or simply staying active and fit.

 

The allure of yachts beckoned to Addison from a young age, being always surrounded by them. Determined to first master his craft, he pursued qualifications and gained invaluable experience in engineering before transitioning to the yachting industry. Today, he works alongside the chief engineer, utilizing his comprehensive engineering expertise to maintain and excel in his duties aboard the yacht.

Zaira Ruiz 

DECKHAND / DIVE INSTRUCTOR

Nationality: Spanish
Languages: English & Spanish

Zaira was born and raised in Malaga, Spain. From a tender age, her heart was captivated by the sea, leading her to plunge into the depths as a diver at the age of 8. Today, she stands as a distinguished dive instructor, holding the prestigious title of PADI Master Dive Instructor.

Summers for Zaira meant sailing camps, where her connection with the ocean deepened, culminating in the completion of a RYA practical sailing course. Driven by her profound love for diving, traveling, and the vast expanse of the sea, she ventured into the yachting industry, envisioning a future as a chief officer.

In her leisure moments, Zaira finds joy in traversing the globe, embracing the camaraderie of volleyball matches, exploring the wonders beneath the waves, and forging connections with fellow adventurers from all corners of the world. With her radiant spirit, she uplifts the entire crew, ensuring that every journey is imbued with positivity and camaraderie.

Lutho Thomas
DECKHAND/ SAILING INSTRUCTOR

Nationality: English, Afrikaans, Isixhosa, IsiZulu, Sesotho
Languages:

Lutho was born and raised in Gqebera, South Africa  (formerly known as Port Elizabeth), the so-called windiest city and he then later moved to Cape Town. 

Lutho went to the same High School as Captain Colin where he studied Maritime Economics and Nautical Science for 3 years and then became the Head Boy. 

Lutho learned everything in relation to SeamanShip skills and navigation, this is also where he refurbished a donated 26 foot sailing boat. Lutho started working at Maersk, a shipping company as an apprentice where he learned operations, health and safety.

 

Whilst at the academy Lutho spent his early years rowing before discovering something that he loved even more; sail boats. 

From 2017 until 2019, he sailed across the west coast of South Africa, taking part in many races and regattas. 

In 2020, Lutho completed his certificates and decided to transition into the yachting industry. 

Lutho is at hand to assist you with all your sailing needs. Lutho has also completed a foiling course on a F101 Trimaran, he currently has his YachtMaster Offshore Qualification and is now near completion of his OOW 3000gt qualification.

When not on board Lutho enjoys working on his music and DJ-ing, photography and improving health & wellness.

Nick Southwood

DECKHAND

Nationality: South African
Languages: English

WhatsApp_Image_2024-04-08_at_16.08.59-removebg-preview

Nick had an active childhood, immersing himself in a variety of sports, while growing up in Durban, South Africa. Afterward, he relocated to Cape Town to pursue his studies at UNISA. For the past 8 years, he has been deeply involved in the logistics and supply chain sector, primarily focusing on import and export operations. 

However, Nick decided to embrace a more adventurous lifestyle, trading his office-bound routine for exciting experiences. He was drawn to the scene of yachting, seeing it as an opportunity to explore and discover what the world has to offer. 

His ultimate ambition is to excel in the yachting industry, committing himself to refining his skills and acquiring relevant certifications. His long-term vision is to attain a leadership position as a head of department one day. 

In his free time, Nick finds joy in various activities such as golf, hiking, kayaking and running. As well as spending time with his family and friends.

Bianca Verster

STEWARDESS

Nationality: South African
Languages: English, Afrikaans

Bianca was born and raised in a suburb called Somerset West from sunny Cape Town, South Africa. Bianca straight from highschool has always had a huge passion for the hospitality industry. She studied three years of event management and coordinator, including 2 years of event industry internships. One of them being completed in Sydney, Australia. 

 

She started wedding/event planning and coordination after completing her event management degrees. She has ever since thrived working in the industry and has a big drive to continue and develop her skills. 

 

In her free time Bianca enjoys tap dancing, photography and has always had a big love for the ocean as well as the outdoors and nature life. Her positive energy radiates throughout the crew and her work ethic on board. 

Bianca joined Mirage in 2023. 

Jessica Weavers 

STEWARDESS/ MASSAGE THERAPIST

Nationality: British
Languages: English

Jessica grew up in a small town called Cheltenham in Cotswold, United Kingdom

Her passion for massage and beauty therapy blossomed from a young age, which led her to complete her level 2 and 3 spa therapist training, accompanied by additional certifications in cancer massage, facials, and body wraps.

Since 2019, Jessica has been dedicated to providing top-tier spa treatments, ensuring each client receives the utmost care and relaxation. After a stint in the HR industry within the financial services sector, she felt drawn to the yachting world.

Jessica’s decision to enter the yachting industry stemmed from her desire to share her exceptional massage skills, explore the globe, gain invaluable life experiences, and forge connections within the industry. Proficient in various massage techniques, Jessica brings a wealth of expertise to her role.

Off-duty, Jessica enjoys leisurely strolls, invigorating spin classes, and maintaining an active lifestyle. You’ll often find her unwinding in a coffee shop, surrounded by her closest friends.

Piper Jackson 

STEWARDESS / FITNESS INSTRUCTOR

Nationality: Canadian
Languages: English

Piper’s journey began in Canada before she embarked on a path to Switzerland at the age of 13 to pursue her dream of becoming a professional ballerina. After three years in Barcelona honing her craft, she returned to her roots in Bermuda to explore her passion for fitness and Pilates.

In 2019, Piper obtained her fitness certifications, marking the beginning of her career as a Pilates trainer, personal fitness trainer, Les Mills instructor, and Barr instructor. Through her work, she has empowered numerous individuals to achieve their fitness goals and embrace a healthy lifestyle.

During her downtime, Piper finds solace in the tranquility of the beach, indulging in morning sunrise swims. She also enjoys playing tennis, golf, and indulging in occasional painting sessions.

Driven by her love for the ocean and boundless energy for fitness, Piper recently embarked on a new career journey, joining the Mirage team as our Fitness Instructor. Combining her passion for fitness and pilates with her love for the sea, she is eager to contribute her expertise to the crew and guests alike.

Menu

Contact

Mirage is available for charter. Your next adventure is only a phone call or email away.

Contact your preferred charter broker.

Colin Richardson

Captain

Nationality: British
Languages: English/ Afrikaans
Colin was born in the UK although he spent his childhood growing up in South Africa. He spent 10 years sailing professionally until 1997 and then spent the next 7 years running various sailing boats in South East Asia. Colin has over 30 years of experience in the maritime industry and has cruised extensively all over the world. He was in command of a Perini-Navi in 2005 and then went on to Captaining M/Y PASSION for 7 years. Among his numerous qualifications, he holds a PADI Divemaster, MCA 3000 Tonne Captain’s license as well as a RYA Jet Ski and Level II Powerboat Instructor. As a result, M/Y MIRAGE can issue jet ski licenses for the duration of your trip. As Captain of M/Y Mirage, Colin combines his extensive experience and qualifications to guarantee a fun-filled memorable vacation with a well-developed sense of safety and security for everyone on board. Colin is always cheerful and great fun to be around and ensures that his crew all maintain the same positivity and professionalism that he does. He places a strong emphasis on planning, organisation and training to ensure impeccable vessel preparation and presentation. Colin handpicks highly qualified and motivated crew to cater to your every need and make sure you have a remarkable time on-board. When on land he lives in Warsash, UK with his wife and two children. Colin joined M/Y Mirage in 2012.

Zaira Ruiz 

DECKHAND / DIVE INSTRUCTOR

Nationality: Spanish
Languages: English & Spanish

Zaira was born and raised in Malaga, Spain. From a tender age, her heart was captivated by the sea, leading her to plunge into the depths as a diver at the age of 8. Today, she stands as a distinguished dive instructor, holding the prestigious title of PADI Master Dive Instructor.

Summers for Zaira meant sailing camps, where her connection with the ocean deepened, culminating in the completion of a RYA practical sailing course. Driven by her profound love for diving, traveling, and the vast expanse of the sea, she ventured into the yachting industry, envisioning a future as a chief officer.

In her leisure moments, Zaira finds joy in traversing the globe, embracing the camaraderie of volleyball matches, exploring the wonders beneath the waves, and forging connections with fellow adventurers from all corners of the world. With her radiant spirit, she uplifts the entire crew, ensuring that every journey is imbued with positivity and camaraderie.