CAPTAIN Desmond Greyling & MATE James Dellis & CHEF Jason Avakian

Des Greyling - Captain
Education/Certifications: City and Guilds Electronic Origination Degree in Graphic Design, PADI Master Scuba diver trainer, MCA – IYT Master of Yachts 200T Oceans
Nationality: South African

Description:
Des was born and raised in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, the country’s headquarters for shipping located on the South Coast. His father was a shipping and ports enthusiast, and on the weekends, Des would accompany him to the harbors to watch the commercial vessels load and offload their cargo. This is where his love for boats and the sea began. His family moved away from the coast to Johannesburg as he started high school, and his mom bribed him to get higher grades in his graduating year by sending him to a scuba diving class. After a career in graphic design and advertising, he left the world of offices, cubicles and traffic for a more relaxed life in Southern Thailand. He sailed lasers and mirrors as a kid on lakes growing up, but only started boating after leaving his career in graphic design in 2002. He was drawn to the yachting industry by the opportunity to travel and meet interesting people, and has worked on private yachts, charter vessels, dive liveaboards and sailing catamarans since 2000. His two favorite destinations are Chamonix Vineyard and Resort in South Africa, and the Exumas in the Bahamas. In his spare time, you’ll find Des free diving and scuba diving. Captain Des has been cruising the Bahamas for almost 20yrs and looks forward to showing you around his back yard, the beautiful Exuma cays! You may recognize this top notch Captain, as he previously was a Captain on both 98' EMRYS and 94' QUINTESSA.


James Dellis - Mate
Nationality: British & South African

Description:
James was born and raised in Durban, on South Africa’s coast James has always lived a life near the sea. His love for the ocean and his great sense of adventure led him into yachting 5 years ago, where he has worked on vessels up to 65m (215ft). Prior to yachting he completed a Marketing Management University degree, in addition to competing in national field hockey tournaments in SA and the UK, along side coaching children. He loves all sports related activities, as well as golf, soccer, rugby, scuba diving, surfing and snowboarding. With taste buds as adventurous as his spirit in his down time he loves experiencing new cuisines and cultures across the world, whilst capturing memories from above with his drone. James’ friendly and approachable demeanor will entice you to explore the beautiful activities that await you in the Exumas cays.


Alexandra Byard Merialdi - Chief Stewardess
Nationality: British & Italian
Languages Spoken: English

Description:
Alex was brought up in an international environment having lived in the UK, France, Italy and Peru. She subsequently is quadrilingual and pursued her passion for languages by completing a University degree in French and Spanish. Alex comes from a close knit family and has a passion for traveling which has brought her to exploring some beautiful destinations and cultures across the globe. Since high school, volunteering has played an important part of her life, from sports coaching children and adults with disabilities to educational work in Fiji and Peru. Active and outgoing Alex has been in the hospitality industry for the last 10 years, 4 of which on yachts, ranging in size up to 215ft. Her background has greatly contributed to making her exceptional at catering to all guests needs. She takes pride in providing tasty cocktails, excellent service and is devoted to making your time onboard M/Y Insieme unforgettable.


Jason Avakian - Chef
Education/Certifications: A.O.S Degree in Culinary Arts, S.F. California Culinary Academy, STCW 95, ENG 1
Nationality: USA

Description:
Jason is highly motivated yet easy going Californian transplanted to south Florida with 24 years of professional yacht experience as chef. Jason boasts an impressive track record with notable stints of 8, 6, and 3 1/2 years, where he has successfully completed numerous charters, freelanced, and catered to private clients aboard yachts. Previously, Jason owned and served as the Executive Chef at Avakian’s Restaurant and Taqueria in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. His culinary expertise spans a diverse range, encompassing Mediterranean, American, Caribbean, French, Vegan, Kosher, Gluten-free, Keto, Paleo sushi, and the art of crafting artisanal breads and pastries. Beyond the galley, Jason's passions extend to surfing, golfing, and spearfishing—ensuring the freshest catch for the evening's delight. A true team player, Jason harmonizes effortlessly with diverse personalities. Born and raised in the coastal haven of Santa Barbara, California, he carries the ocean in his veins and thrives in the aquatic ambiance. Chef Jason looks forward to welcoming you to his table on board 105’ INSIEME.