GRAND ILLUSION

Crew Profile

CAPTAIN
STEVE KNOBBE | American
Steve has been in yachting for over 40 years. He started
his career in California cruising the west coast of the
United States, Canada and Mexico. In the late 90’s he
moved to Europe running charter yachts in the
Mediterranean as well as the Caribbean. Steve enjoys
all type of sport but mainly skiing, surfing and golf.

CHIEF STEWARDESS
MELANY VALLI | South African/Swiss
Mel was born in Johannesburg, South Africa. She was
raised on a farm and she has always been an
adventurer at heart. Prior to her career in yachting, she
worked as a flight attendant on Private Jets. She prides
herself on attention to detail and creativity, while
providing the highest level of service. Mel is excited
about welcoming you aboard the beautiful “Grand
Illusion” and hopes to make your experience and
journey with us a memorable one.

ENGINEER
NIGEL WELLINGTON | British
Nigel was born in the UK, South West Devon. He has
been in the yachting industry for +20 years working
through all departments. He stumbled into yachting on
his travels throughout Europe and hasn’t turned back
since. He has a background in precision engineering
and always has a proactive attitude. He has a family in
the Philippians and this is where he calls home. In his
free time Nigel enjoys snowboarding, adventuring
around and water sports.

FIRST MATE
KYLE THOMPSON | South African / Seychellois
Kyle is our ‘Island Boy’; born in the Seychelles and grew
up in a small costal town in Mauritius – he has grown a
deep love for the ocean and boats. He has been in the
yachting industry just under 4 years working on some of
the most prestigious vessels. He aims to hopefully
become a Yacht Captain in the near future. He loves
to fish – it is his true passion, as well as take on any
maintenance tasks; he is a true handy man and
problem solver.

2nd STEWARDESS
YASMIN COOK | South African / British
Yasmin is our bubbly and kind natured 2nd Stewardess.
She was born in England but grew up in South Africa
and has a zest for life. She is very much a people’s
person and excels in providing the best service to
everyone she meets. Prior to yachting she was an
Event Coordinator for high profile events in London,
and took the leap to the boats to carry with her
everything she has learnt. She loves adventure and
the outdoors and is always down to try new things.

BOSUN
RICHARD SEHANNIE | South African
Richard is our hard working deckhand who is
originally from Johannesburg, South Africa. He
studied forensic investigation at the West Virginia
University (WVU) in the USA. During his summer break,
he obtained a job onboard a sailing yacht and
instantly fell in love with the industry. He has a huge
passion for the ocean and everything that comes
with it, he loves swimming, snorkeling and fishing. He
can’t wait to have you onboard.

DECK HAND
MARC LOURENS | South African
Marc was born and raised in Pretoria, South Africa.
Marc is an energetic member who prides himself in
his work ethic and precision. Marc has been in the
music industry for a standing of 12 years prior to
Yachting and understands how to entertain guests at
the highest level. Marc enjoys fitness as part of his life
as well as adventure for sports of a physical kind.
Marc is your go to guy for entertainment and
exercise.

CHEF
RENAN IGLESIAS | Brazilian
Renan is a Brazilian chef that specializes in Fusion
cuisine and is a Barbecue Master. He loves creating
meals that offer exceptional moments through taste
and presentation. He started his formal chef career
more than 10 years ago, working in Michelin Star
restaurants and has now made the shift to the
yachting industry and brings with him all his
knowledge and skills to provide the guests with
exceptional experiences. He always has a smile on his
face and a positive attitude.