Your Crew
CAPTAIN Eric Ortega & MATE/CHEF Nathalie Manuel
We appreciate and understand the importance of crew designation and clear communication with guests; however, we will confirm the actual crew 30 days before arrival. We reserve the right to change/reschedule the crew based on operations.
Eric Ortega
Born and bred on La Isla Bonita, Eric is the epitome of a “San Pedrano” (referring to the residents of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye) and one of the few privileged enough to have grown up in one of the most authentic island fishing villages in the world!
He also spent some time on Belize’s mainland, primarily Crooked Tree Village, home of the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary – a protected area of natural wetlands dubbed one of the best birding sites in the country.
After his studies, Eric joined his uncle in the tourism industry, learning to captain tour boats before pursuing his Divemaster and SSI Dive Instructor certifications.
An inherent sea lover, sailing is Eric’s passion; he enjoys combining his ability to sail his guests along the largest living barrier reef to remote islands and unrivaled snorkeling spots with his tour guiding experience.
You are in for the trip of a lifetime with Eric at the helm!
Nathalie Manuel
Meet Nathalie Manuel, who hails from the popular tropical hot spot of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. An energetic team player, she joins BSV following a 10-year career working as a skilled Head Chef at an exclusive private villa on the island's secluded northern shores.
Trained in Seasonal American Cuisine at John Bentley's in California, Nathalie's culinary passions are cake making, pastry, and decadent creations and presentations of fresh-caught lobster.
Nat, as she is affectionately known by her colleagues and friends, is also the sister of our lead and legendary first mate/chef, Kainie Manuel, so her reputation precedes her!
