Lance - Crewed Motor Yacht Charter

Name: Luke Caldwell
Position: Rotational Captain
Nationality: Australian
Description:
Captain Luke Caldwell is a seasoned Superyacht Captain whose life has been deeply intertwined with the ocean from an early age. Growing up on a small timber sailing yacht with his family in North Queensland until the age of 9, Luke´s passion for the sea was instilled in him from the start.

During his teenage years, Luke was a dedicated beach kid at Lennox Head, near Byron Bay, where he surfed and competed in Surf Life Saving events. His love for the ocean and physical fitness led him to the University of Queensland, where he graduated as a Physiotherapist. This qualification took him on extensive travels around Australia and Europe, including working with the Australian Ski and Snowboard team in Austria and contributing his expertise at the Athens Olympics in 2004.

By the age of 30, Luke transitioned onto sailing yachts, becoming a Scuba Dive Master in North Queensland and the Caribbean. His drive and dedication saw him quickly advance in the yachting world, and by the age of 34, after numerous Atlantic crossings, Super Yacht Sailing Regattas, and several seasons in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Pacific, he achieved the esteemed position of Superyacht Captain.

Luke´s career then brought him back to Australia, where he spent 12 years managing the Kokomo fleet of yachts and motor vessels for Lang Walker. His leadership, extensive experience, and deep connection to the ocean have made him a respected figure in the yachting industry.

Captain Luke lives and breathes the ocean and all things aquatic. His lifelong dedication to the sea, combined with his extensive experience and leadership, makes him an exceptional Captain who ensures every voyage is a remarkable experience.



Name: Matt Stafford
Position: Captain
Nationality: Australian
Description:
Matt is a qualified Master Class 4 and AMSA/MCA Master 3000 GT Yacht Captain who has spent the last 20 years either working in the European and Caribbean superyacht industry or sailing his own 40-foot sailing yacht around the world. Matt’s maritime career originated with the Royal Australian Navy when he was awarded a scholarship to the Australian Defence Force Academy in 1993. After 8 years of service Matt left the Navy as a Lieutenant Navigation Specialist and moved to Europe to pursue a career in the superyacht industry. Matt left Europe in late 2011 and sailed his own yacht, a 40-foot steel ketch, around the world for three years from Scotland to Australia east to west via Cape Horn. The highlight of this trip was to sail around Cape Horn and in the Antarctic Peninsula, firstly in his own yacht and then several times later as a charter skipper of a high-performance adventure charter yacht SY SPIRIT OF SYDNEY based out of Ushuaia, Argentina.
Matt’s calm demeanour matched with his fun sense of humour puts everyone at ease and creates a warm and relaxing atmosphere. His organisation and attention to detail ensures all guests have to do is relax and enjoy the experience of exploring Australian and Pacific waters.

Matt is a keen kite-surfer and loves any activity associated with the sea, including diving and fishing. If not in the sea then you could find Matt easily enjoying a good book, playing golf, watching sports, or sailing around Australia on his own yacht.



Name: Nandi Weideman
Position: Chief Stewardess
Nationality: South African
Description: With a career in the yachting industry spanning several years, Nandi brings a wealth of experience and a keen eye for detail to her role as Chief Stewardess onboard a 40m yacht. Based on the Central Coast of Australia, Nandi has developed a passion for organizing, styling, and painting, which she seamlessly integrates into her professional responsibilities.

Nandi´s journey in yachting has been marked by her dedication to excellence and her ability to create a welcoming and luxurious environment for guests. She has successfully navigated the unique challenges of yacht management, from coordinating crew accommodations to managing shipyard periods, all while maintaining high standards of service and hospitality.

Known for her strong leadership skills and meticulous attention to detail, Nandi has earned a reputation as a reliable and capable chief stewardess. Her commitment to continuous improvement and personal growth drives her to deliver exceptional experiences for both guests and crew alike.

When Nandi isn´t onboard, she enjoys spending time on the Central Coast, where she embraces a healthy and active lifestyle. Her journey in yachting is a testament to her passion for the industry and her unwavering dedication to achieving success and fulfilment in all her endeavours.



Name: Andrew Michaelides
Position: Chef
Nationality: Irish
Description: Our chef Andrew grew up in professional kitchens. Starting as a dishwasher aged 15, he fell in love with the action and learned his trade working his way up through the ranks of some of Europe’s best Michelin star kitchens.

His journey in fine dining started at one of Irelands top restaurants Ox in Belfast including managing events in New York’s famous cocktail bar the Dead Rabbit and a 5* resort in Greece. He then moved onto the prestigious 2 Michelin star Le Gavroche in central London with his final chapter in the restaurant industry seeing him spend 4 years in Copenhagen working at Relæ and opening a grilled fish restaurant in the countryside.

Andrew’s passion for travel developed though his career journey and has grown ever since. After some time in the French and Swiss alps cooking up a storm he moved to yachting and we are glad he did. Part of lance since the build in Viareggio, Tuscany he brings a personable, well-crafted and ingredients focused cooking style to the table. Our chef takes pride in tailoring each menu specifically to the requirements of the guests on board whether it be fried chicken sandwiches or an 8-course tasting menu you will be in for a treat.



Name: Abbey Kiloswky
Position: Second Stewardess
Nationality: Australian
Description: Abbey is a dedicated Second Stewardess with two years of experience in the yachting industry. Her vibrant personality and easy-going nature make her a joy to work with and an invaluable member of any crew.

Abbey has quickly established herself as a dependable and skilled stewardess, demonstrating a keen ability to adapt to the fast-paced and dynamic environment of yacht life. Her attention to detail and commitment to delivering exceptional service ensure that guests always have a memorable experience on board.

With a natural flair for hospitality and a strong work ethic, Abbey seamlessly balances the demands of her role while fostering a positive and collaborative atmosphere among the crew. Her enthusiasm and passion for the industry are evident in everything she does, making her a standout stewardess.

Whether she´s organizing guest activities or assisting with the daily operations of the yacht, Abbey´s professionalism, and cheerful demeanour shine through. She is dedicated to continuous learning and growth, always seeking to enhance her skills and contribute to the success of her team.

Abbey´s journey in yachting is a testament to her dedication and love for the industry. Her ability to create a welcoming and enjoyable environment for guests and crew alike makes her an asset to any yacht she serves on.



Name: Sergio Torregrose Maas
Position: First Mate
Nationality: Spanish
Description: Sergio is an adventurous First Mate who is currently working towards his Yacht master 45 certification. With experience cruising the Mediterranean Sea, the Caribbean, and the East Coast of Australia, Sergio brings a wealth of navigational knowledge and a passion for exploration to his role.

A natural leader and a dedicated team player, Sergio is known for his ability to inspire and motivate those around him. His enthusiasm for yachting is matched by his love for adventure sports, including snowboarding, camping, hiking, and diving. Whether on land or at sea, Sergio is always seeking new challenges and experiences, making him a dynamic and engaging presence on board.

Sergio’s commitment to continuous learning and professional growth is evident in his pursuit of the Yacht master 45. His ability to balance leadership with a sense of fun ensures that the crew not only operates smoothly but also enjoys the journey. He’s always down for a good time, bringing a positive and energetic vibe that enhances the onboard atmosphere for both crew and guests.

With his adventurous spirit, leadership qualities, and dedication to the yachting lifestyle, Sergio is a First Mate who is not only skilled and capable but also brings a sense of excitement and camaraderie to every voyage.


Name: Matthew Ireland
Position: Engineer
Nationality: Australian
Description: Matthew is a 33-year-old marine engineer hailing from the picturesque Central Coast of New South Wales. With a background rooted in discipline and precision, he served in the Navy, where he honed his skills in marine engineering. Seeking new challenges and adventures, Matthew transitioned into the world of super yachting, taking his expertise to the luxury vessels around the world.

Beyond his professional life, Matthew is deeply connected to the ocean, not just as an engineer but also as an avid surfer and fisherman. Whether riding the waves or casting a line, he finds his greatest joys in the water, reflecting his lifelong passion for the sea.


Name: Mitch Jackson
Position: Deckhand
Nationality: Australian
Description: Mitch is a hardworking and spirited deckhand who has become a beloved member of the crew. Known for his tireless work ethic and infectious sense of humour, Mitch brings a sense of joy and camaraderie to any environment he joins.

With a strong commitment to his duties, Mitch tackles every task with enthusiasm and precision, ensuring that the yacht is always maintained to the highest standards. His ability to balance hard work with a light-hearted attitude makes him an essential part of the team, fostering a positive and enjoyable atmosphere for both crew and guests.

Mitch´s knack for making jokes and lifting spirits is matched by his dedication to his role. He is always ready to lend a hand and go the extra mile, demonstrating reliability and a proactive approach to his responsibilities. His vibrant personality and quick wit make him a favourite among his colleagues, contributing to a cohesive and happy crew dynamic.

Whether he’s assisting with docking procedures, maintaining the exterior of the yacht, or simply sharing a laugh with the team, Mitch´s presence is a constant source of energy and positivity. His passion for yachting and his genuine enjoyment of his work shine through in everything he does, making him an invaluable asset to any yacht.

Mitch’s combination of hard work and humour embodies the perfect balance of professionalism and fun, making the yachting experience even more memorable for everyone on board.