SHADES OF GREY

Crew Profile

CAPTAIN: Francesco Testa

Francesco comes from a sea salty family, countless generations of fishermen from the Bay of Naples. Growing up by the sea, a life on the water was inevitable. For over a decade, Francesco has been sailing professionally around the world, delivering yachts and captaining luxury charters across some of the most breathtaking destinations.
Beyond sailing, his passions lie in philosophy, meditation, and martial arts, disciplines that shape his approach to both the sea and life. An avid water sports enthusiast and fisherman, he continues the traditions of his ancestors but now on a global scale. Deeply connected to the ocean, he is also highly sensitive to and respectful of the marine environment, always striving to minimize his impact and protect the waters he calls home.


CHEF Edward Bennett:

Chef Edward Bennett is the creative culinary force aboard your luxury charter sailing catamaran, bringing more than 25 years of global hospitality experience and a refined, guest-focused approach to every voyage. A native of New Zealand with British and French ties, Edward’s passion for food and the sea has taken him across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Atlantic, delivering unforgettable dining experiences to an international clientele.
With professional training from the Auckland Hospitality & Chef Training School and an impressive background as head chef in both land-based restaurants and prestigious yachts, Edward expertly combines technical precision with artistic flair. From locally sourced seafood in Bodrum to bespoke Mediterranean tasting menus in St. Tropez, his cuisine reflects both creativity and cultural sensitivity, always tailored to his guests' preferences and dietary needs.
Edward’s calm demeanor and organizational mastery shine in dynamic charter environments. He has excelled aboard high-end catamarans such as the Sunreef 80 Apollo 99, Fountaine Pajot Inspirante, and Sunreef 70 Muse, where he not only crafted exquisite meals but also provisioned across diverse regions and managed galley operations with seamless efficiency.
As a seasoned chef and family man based in Cannes, Edward infuses every dish with care, authenticity, and a deep love for his craft—ensuring that each meal at sea becomes a memorable highlight of your luxury yacht charter experience.


STEWARDESS Mia Van Aswegen:

Mia is passionate, hardworking and able to work efficiently under pressure. She works well with guests and crew members, and she is very patient. She has learnt how to deal with stress, long hours and somewhat difficult people, gracefully and always professionally.
Her strengths include compassion, hardworking, beeing well organised and punctual.
Mia has worked already on Motoryachts, beeing stewardess and cook. She has a very good eye for table setting and decorations, and will make sure the guests feel like being home from the minute they go on board.
Mia holds a Jetski license and also a Powerboat license.
Mia is working on SHADES OF GREY since the launch of the yacht, she was a great part of the successful season in the Mediterranean Summer.


STEWARDESS: Kami Hutchings

Originally from Chicago, USA, Kami is a warm, easy-going professional with a passion for sailing, hospitality, and adventure. With a background in elementary education and six years of life in Spain, she blends a strong work ethic with a fun-loving, approachable personality that guests instantly connect with.
Now fluent in both English and Spanish (C2), Kami brings excellent communication skills and a positive attitude to every charter. She takes pride in creating a welcoming, high-standard onboard environment and is known for her attention to detail, adaptability, and team spirit.
Born on April 11, 1994, Kami is an American national who loves snorkeling, climbing, and yoga — and is even a certified yoga instructor. Whether helping on deck or delivering a five-star guest experience inside, she brings energy, care, and professionalism to every role.


DECKHAND: Salvatore Di Maio

Born and raised in Castellammare di Stabia, between Naples and Sorrento, Salvatore has spent his life by the sea. He began his nautical career at 18 as a superyacht mooring assistant and has since gained over a decade of experience as a captain and first officer. Passionate about navigation and travel, he brings extensive knowledge and technical expertise to Shade of Grey, ensuring smooth and safe sailing for every journey.