Your Crew
CAPTAIN Mario Snyman & MATE/CHEF Gi Snyman
Hi — We’re Mario & Gi!
Our story began in Pretoria, South Africa, in a hospitality school classroom. As part of an icebreaker, everyone was asked to toss their shoes into a pile and pick one at random to find their partner. By chance — or maybe fate — I (Gi) pulled out Mario’s shoe, and we’ve been a team ever since.
Mario was born and raised in South Africa and has always been a people person with a knack for problem-solving. After studying hospitality management, he trained across luxury hotels, fine-dining restaurants, and even South Africa’s iconic Blue Train. His love for the ocean eventually drew him to yachting, where he earned his Yachtmaster certification and discovered his passion for life at sea. Calm, capable, and endlessly resourceful, Mario keeps Mucho Gusto running seamlessly — whether he’s at the helm, behind the bar crafting his signature “cocktail of the day,” or fixing something before anyone else even knows it’s broken. He’s also a certified Dive Master, trained electrician, barista, and mixologist — and when he’s not on the water, you’ll usually find him restoring classic cars.
I (Gi) grew up in Mozambique, surrounded by tropical beaches, fresh seafood, and the Portuguese-inspired flavours that have shaped my cooking. By sixteen, I was already guiding safari guests and sharing my love of nature and wildlife — hospitality came naturally. I went on to earn a three-year diploma in Professional Cookery, specializing in dietary requirements and personalized menus. Food, for me, is about joy and connection, and I love creating dishes that make people feel both nourished and delighted. Guests often tell me it’s my laugh that fills the boat as much as the aroma from the galley — and that’s the best compliment I could ask for.
Together, we’re passionate about creating charters that feel effortless and personal — where guests can completely relax knowing every detail is taken care of. Whether it’s Mario mixing sundowners on the flybridge, me serving up something fresh from the galley, or the two of us sharing stories over sunset, we love making every trip aboard Mucho Gusto one to remember.
Mucho Gusto 2.0
ADVICE FROM THE BOAT:
* The BEST days are spent with family & frineds under the sun, on the sand, and most DEFINITELY in the sea. Make time to do it OFTEN.
* I’ve found a KINDRED SPIRIT in MARIO…my shelling “YODA”. Always choose a captain who loves the sea & sand as much as you do.
* Gi is the BFF you wish you had in highschool and college. Always supportive with a story & a laugh! Did I mention she can cook. She. Can. COOK!
*As always, WE ARE GRATEFUL to V & D for sharing Mucho Gusto.
MANY THANKS!
13-23 April 2026
Mario + Gi -
Thank you for a spectacular time back on MG! The food, daily cocktails, beach excursions and all the little moments in between were just perfect. We cannot thank you enough for being so accommodating and wonderful with Adeline, she had the best time ‘washing’ the boat and going fast on the tender, and absolutely loved every meal!
We cannot wait to be back on board again next time. Xx