CREW PROFILE
GRAND ILLUSION
YACHT FOR CHARTER | GRAND ILLUSION | 145’ (44.20m)
BUILDER
PA L M E R J O H N S O N
B U I LT / R E F I T
1994 / 2017
BEAM
26’ 3” / 8.00M
DRAFT
7’ 10” / 2.40M
S TAT E R O O M S
5
GUESTS
10
CREW
9
FLAG
JAMAICA
YACHT FOR CHARTER | GRAND ILLUSION 145’ (44.20M) | CREW PROFILE
STEVE KNOBBE | Captain | 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.
M E L A N Y VA L L I | C h i e f S t e w a r d e s s | S o u t h A f r i c a n / S w i s s 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.
YACHT FOR CHARTER | GRAND ILLUSION 145’ (44.20M) | CREW PROFILE
NIGEL WELLINGTON | Engineer | 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.
KYLE THOMPSON | First Mate | 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.
YACHT FOR CHARTER | GRAND ILLUSION 145’ (44.20M) | CREW PROFILE
YA S M I N C O O K | S e c o n d S t e w a r d e s s | S o u t h A f r i c a n / B r i t i s h 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.
RICHARD SEHANNIE | Bosun | 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.
YACHT FOR CHARTER | GRAND ILLUSION 145’ (44.20M) | CREW PROFILE
MARC LOURENS | Deck Hand | 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.
RENAN IGLESIAS | Chef | 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.