Your Crew
CAPTAIN Caleb Haydock & CHEF Chanel Botha
Captain Caleb Haydock
Caleb’s story begins far from tropical seas: growing up in Canada on the windswept Great Lakes around Toronto, he spent every summer on the water. Sailing was more than pastime — it was foundation. He raced sailboats in international regattas, building not just technical skill but a deep respect for the sea and wind. Pursuing that passion took him around the globe. He taught sailing to support his university, then explored sunny coasts: Costa Rica’s Pacific shores, the turquoise mediums of the Bahamas, and the historic ports of the Mediterranean. Along the way, he completed intensive PADI dive training in Honduras (Bay Islands), bringing under-water exploration to his repertoire.
Caleb holds multiple certifications including Yachtmaster 200 GT (Commercial Endorsement – Sail), STCW, ENG1, RYA Sea-Safety / PPR, ROC (GMDSS) VHF License, Maritime Basic Firefighting, and Commercial Assistance Towing. He is also PADI Search & Rescue Certified. Every qualification reflects not just earning badges, but a commitment: to safety, to immersive experiences, to sharing his knowledge with guests.
Caleb is more than captain. He’s your guide to the waters, the secret places, the best snorkel spots, sunsets from hidden bays, fishing lines over the side, stories beneath the stars. His attention to detail, calm competence, and warm hospitality are the bedrock of what makes a charter aboard EMYSA feel so uniquely personal.
C E R T I F I C A T E S
• Yachtmaster 200 GT Commercial Endorsement (Coastal / Sail)
• STCW
• ENG 1
• RYA Sea Safety / PPR
• ROC (GMDSS) VHF License
• Maritime Basic Firefighting
• Commercial Assistance Towing License
• PADI Search & Rescue Certified
Chef Chanel – S/V EMYSA
Born in South Africa and raised in a Thai household, Chef Chanel grew up immersed in two vibrant cultures that shaped both her palate and her passion for hospitality. Splitting her childhood between South Africa and Thailand, she developed a love for travel and a deep appreciation for the way food connects people across cultures.
Her culinary journey began in her mother’s guesthouse kitchen, where she learned the art of Thai cooking during school holidays. That early spark grew into a lifelong passion for food and hospitality. Soon after graduating Chanel followed in the footsteps of her older brother into the yachting world, completing Yacht Stewardess Academy in Cape Town, which included Barista, Mixology and Level 1 Wine Certifications.
Chanel has spent multiple seasons in the Caribbean working aboard popular charter yachts such as The Annex (10 guests) and Gullwing (8 guests). Known for attention to details, her elegant tablescapes, handcrafted cocktails, and warm guest service, Chanel quickly became a favorite among charter guests. Working alongside some of the top charter chefs in the region gave Chanel the confidence to transition from stewardess to chef.
Chanel completed professional chef school in Cape Town. There, she combined her natural flair for flavor with formal training by blending her Thai-South African heritage, resulting in vibrant, flavorful menus that celebrate fresh ingredients and bold creativity.
Now aboard S/V EMYSA, Chef Chanel brings her rich cultural background, refined service experience, and culinary creativity to every dish she prepares. Her journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the joy of sharing unforgettable meals at sea.
