Your Crew
Jean-Pete Pyper Head Captain
Crew Profile
Captain JPCaptain Jean-Pete (JP) Pyper, a highly skilled South African mariner, brings a wealth of experience and technical expertise to every charter. A seasoned professional, JP holds an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore with Commercial Endorsement, an MCA International Certificate of Competency, and a Recognition of Non-STCW Certificate from the Virgin Islands Shipping Registry.
JP’s maritime career began on catamarans, igniting his passion for sailing and a profound appreciation for the ocean. Since 2018, he has navigated the stunning waters of the Caribbean, showcasing versatility and skill across a variety of vessels, including monohulls and catamarans. His ability to adapt to diverse vessels and responsibilities speaks to his professionalism and dedication to excellence.
In addition to his extensive captaincy experience, JP is a certified engineer with AEC1 and AEC2 qualifications, further elevating his capabilities. His technical prowess includes maintaining and installing mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems across yachts of all sizes. With a background as a Mate/Engineer on superyachts like M.Y. Sogno (33m) and M.Y. Aroha (26m), JP is adept at ensuring smooth operations both on deck and below.
A vibrant and approachable leader, JP thrives on creating exceptional guest experiences. Renowned for his positive energy and hospitality, he excels at mixing delightful Caribbean cocktails, organizing engaging watersports activities, and tailoring charters to meet guests' desires. His multicultural background and warm demeanor make him a natural entertainer and a favorite among guests.
With a career spanning technical precision and guest-focused excellence, Captain Jean-Pete Pyper stands as a beacon of maritime expertise, ready to deliver unforgettable adventures infused with South African charm.
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Chef Justine
Justine is a dynamic and innovative chef with extensive marine and culinary experience, making her an exceptional choice for any yachting crew. Her culinary roots are grounded in South Africa, with her passion for vibrant flavors and sustainable cooking further enriched by her time in the Caribbean. Justine excels in blending bold flavors with ethical practices, ensuring each dish she creates is a harmonious balance of nourishment, luxury, and sustainability.
Her culinary foundation was shaped in South Africa, where she cultivated a deep appreciation for bold flavors, vibrant ingredients, and the art of creating soulful dishes. This rich culinary heritage was further enhanced during her time in the Caribbean, where she immersed herself in the diverse and colorful cuisine of the region.
With over three years as a yacht chef and nearly 8,000 nautical miles logged under sail, Justine has mastered the art of blending her South African culinary traditions with the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean to create extraordinary gastronomic experiences. Her tenure at VOYAGE Charters in the British Virgin Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands allowed her to craft unique dishes that harmonized the warm, comforting spices and hearty ingredients of her South African roots with the tropical fruits, fresh seafood, and zesty flavors of the Caribbean. Each meal is a celebration of cultural fusion, offering guests a taste journey that is both nostalgic and adventurous.
Additionally, Justine showcased her versatility and commitment to sustainability as the vegan chef aboard the 80ft Martin Sheen for the Sea Shepherd conservation fleet. Here, she demonstrated her ability to innovate within strict dietary parameters, creating plant-based menus that were as flavorful as they were environmentally conscious.
Guests can look forward to an unforgettable culinary experience with Justine, who is as dedicated to high-end gastronomy as she is to the well-being and satisfaction of her clients. Whether it’s crafting gourmet dishes tailored to specific dietary needs or seamlessly integrating into the demands of luxury yachting, Justine delivers excellence with every meal, ensuring an experience that is as memorable as it is delicious.
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Stew Tayla
Tayla Britt, a South African native, brings a dynamic blend of professionalism, enthusiasm, and hands-on expertise to the yachting industry. With a foundation in hospitality and a passion for the sea, Tayla has cultivated her skills as both a Deckhand and Dive Master, excelling in various roles aboard motor yachts ranging from 38 to 78 meters.
Tayla's yachting journey includes stewardess and deckhand positions on prestigious vessels such as M.Y. Lady Sandals (41m) and M.Y. Enterprise (38m). Her responsibilities have encompassed housekeeping, laundry, turn ups and turn downs, detailing, service, and general maintenance of both guest and crew areas. She is adept at line handling, fender work, washdowns, and teak maintenance, showcasing her versatility on deck.
A certified PADI Dive Master and American Red Cross Lifeguard, Tayla's expertise extends to watersports instruction, boating operations, and swim training. Her certifications also include STCW, PDSD, Food Safety & Hygiene Level 2, Powerboat Level 2, and a Personal Watercraft Certificate. These credentials, combined with her excellent organizational skills and ability to thrive under pressure, make her a valuable asset to any yacht crew.
Tayla is not only a skilled professional but also a team player with a vibrant personality. She is passionate about creating a healthy team environment, delivering exceptional guest experiences, and embracing opportunities for personal and professional growth. In her free time, Tayla enjoys scuba diving, snowboarding, surfing, yoga, and hiking—activities that reflect her adventurous spirit and love for the outdoors.
Tayla is eager to contribute her talents and energy to new challenges, striving to enhance her knowledge and advance her career in the yachting industry.
