Your Crew
CAPTAIN Ivan Ras & CHEF Marisia van Niekerk
Ivan is a passionate marine enthusiast with years of experience as a scuba diving instructor and 3+ years as a charter captain. His love for the ocean began during family holidays spent at the beach, where he developed a keen interest in exploring, snorkeling, and fishing. After graduating from high school, he chose to turn his passion into a career, becoming a scuba diving instructor. This role has allowed him to travel extensively, explore new destinations, and immerse himself in diverse cultures.
For Ivan, being out on the ocean brings a sense of calm and wonder. He is fascinated by the mysteries of the sea and enjoys the endless possibilities for adventure both in and on the water. In addition to his maritime interests, he has a strong passion for sailing, engineering, DIY projects, and vintage cars. He also has a deep appreciation for nature, with a particular focus on animal welfare and plant care.
Marisia is an experienced and dedicated charter chef with over 3 years of experience in creating exceptional dining experiences aboard charter yachts. Throughout her career, she has developed a reputation for her culinary expertise, attention to detail, and ability to tailor menus to the unique preferences of guests, all while maintaining the high standards expected in the yachting industry.
Her passion for food and hospitality began early, and she honed her skills in both private kitchens and professional kitchens before transitioning to the yachting industry. Marisia has worked in diverse and challenging environments, including on private yachts and charter vessels, where she is known for her creative and seasonal approach to cuisine, as well as her ability to adapt to various dietary requirements and preferences.
In addition to her culinary skills, Marisia excels in managing the galley, ensuring smooth operations, and maintaining high levels of cleanliness and organization. She is committed to providing a five-star dining experience, whether preparing gourmet meals for intimate gatherings or large, celebratory events on board.
Marisia and Ivan met in Potchefstroom, a small town in South Africa. Marisia was studying hairdressing and Ivan just got back from working at sea on a 130ft motor yacht as Deckhand/Dive master. We quickly bonded over our love for the ocean and meeting new people. We soon decided to move down west to old Cape Town herself, where Marisia continued studying and Ivan went back to sea on an 86ft M/Y Nordhavn as First Mate/Engineer/Relief Captain in Fort Lauderdale.
Marisia loved doing hair but now it was time for her other love, the ocean. She began studying the laws of the sea and learning everything she could about life onboard, soon she was ready to join Ivan.
Ivan and Marisia love creating the perfect holiday, sailing only to the best places -from the most famous bars to untouched secluded bays.
Captain Ivan Ras
Qualifications
Yacht master ocean theory RYA/MCA
Yacht master offshore 200 GT RYA/MCA
Approved Engine course 1 RYA/MCA
VHF RYA/MCA
Power Boat level 2 RYA/MCA
Scuba diving and EFR Instructor Padi/SSI
SAMSA Skipper Category C 2014
Chef Marisa van Niekerk
Qualifications:
STCW
Food and hygiene course
Stewardess course
