TANZANITE

Crew Profile

Brook Bennett – Captain

Brook has been exploring the world by yacht since 1995. Over the years he has worn many hats on board, but none he enjoys more than the Captain’s. With 17 seasons in Alaska and ten Panama Canal transits under his belt, Brook brings extensive experience and a calm, confident presence to every voyage.

Raised in coastal North Carolina, he grew up on the water and developed a lifelong passion for fishing—whether it’s fly fishing in the Rockies, reeling in salmon in Alaska, or chasing marlin offshore. He also enjoys tying his own flies, snow skiing, golfing, restoring cars, and just about any activity that keeps him near the water.

Dean Bethel – First Mate

A proud seventh-generation Bahamian, Dean was born and raised in Freeport, where life on the water began early with spearfishing and sailing. He later attended boarding school in Virginia before earning his degree in Marine Transportation from the Maritime Academy in Galveston, Texas.

Dean stepped into yachting as a Deckhand and has since worked aboard vessels up to 312 feet, cruising the Mediterranean, Central America, the Bahamas, and New England. Among his favorite career moments? Being called “Babe” by Tom Brady and getting a fist bump from David Beckham.

Dean is passionate about French bulldogs, diving for conch and lobster, and all things Baby Yoda.

Jordan Nelson – Deckhand

Originally from the Breckenridge region of Colorado, Jordan brings a diverse background—from large animal agriculture to construction—and a strong work ethic to the deck team. Curious, motivated, and always eager to learn, he’s equally enthusiastic about improving his boat-handling skills, diving into engineering projects, or chasing big fish.

In his downtime, Jordan enjoys hunting, snowmobiling, and relaxing at the beach.

Matt Quidato – Engineer

Matt was born in Nueva Ecija, Philippines, where he grew up on a rice farm and developed a deep love for the outdoors. After immigrating to Fort Lauderdale, he discovered a new world on the water in the “Venice of America.” As a teenager he spent his free time rebuilding jet skis and small engines with his brother while helping with the family real estate business.

Yachting eventually called to him, and Matt has since worked his way up through the engineering ranks, continually building his technical knowledge. Outside the engine room, he enjoys reading, custom-tuning his car, and the occasional DIY project.

Jeanine Bennett – Chief Stewardess

Jeanine entered the yachting world in 2015, trading in her corporate office for a career filled with adventure, travel, and life on the water. A Florida beach native, she naturally gravitated back to her roots and has since cruised both U.S. coasts, including the Pacific Northwest and Alaska, as well as the Bahamas, Caribbean, and Central America—with multiple Panama Canal transits along the way.

With experience on yachts ranging from 90’ to 150’, Jeanine brings exceptional hospitality, warmth, and professionalism to the interior team. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, crafting, birdwatching, snorkeling, hiking, skiing, and spending time outdoors.

Paige Wessel – Second Stewardess

Originally from Kansas City, Missouri, Paige spent her childhood summers on the Lake of the Ozarks, where her love for the water first began. After relocating to Florida in 2021, she built more than four years of experience in the yachting industry and now serves as Second Stewardess aboard M/Y Tanzanite.

Paige is known for her keen attention to detail, polished service skills, and bright, welcoming personality. She excels in interior presentation, floral arrangements, cabin detailing, and crafting thoughtful touches that elevate the guest experience. Whether she’s preparing a signature cocktail or ensuring the yacht looks immaculate, Paige brings creativity, dedication, and positive energy to the team.

In her free time, she enjoys yoga, hiking, fishing, and cooking.

Cameron Duffy – Chef

Cameron grew up in Coral Springs, Florida, and has loved cooking for as long as he can remember. He began working in restaurants at 15 and later graduated from the culinary program at Nicholls State University in Louisiana. A master of gumbo, an accomplished pizza chef, and former Lead Grillmaster at the Masters at Augusta National, Cameron has cooked for Green Jackets, caddies, and distinguished guests alike.

He joined the yachting industry in 2022 and has since worked on vessels from 27M to 92M, cruising the Bahamas and U.S. East Coast. Off the yacht, you can find him taking his Jeep mudding or cliff jumping along the Chattahoochee.