SuRi Crew

About Our Crew

SuRi carries an onboard crew of 20, with each crew member bringing years of experience and expertise in their field. Dedicated to excellence, and committed to delivering the ultimate adventure charter yacht experience, SuRi’s crew cannot wait to welcome you aboard.

Motoryacht SuRi

Crew Profiles

——- Captain

Juan Koegelenberg SuRi Captain

Anthony “Tony” Van Willes

Captain – Rotation (Fiji)

Profile

Tony was born and grew up in Fiji, where he developed a lifelong love for the water. An avid fisherman and diver, at sixteen, Tony began working at some of the best resorts in Fiji on Game Fishing and Dive Boats. He moved to mega yachts in 1999 and has travelled worldwide, working his way up from deckhand to Captain on various Private and Charter boats.

In 2007, Tony joined SuRi as a first officer and was part of the team that converted SuRi from a 50-meter Crab Boat to the 64-meter mega yacht she is today. Tony gained his MCA 3000-ton Master Certificate while working on SuRI. In 2014, Tony joined M/Y Relentless as Captain and chartered around the Pacific, particularly his home island, Fiji.

We welcomed Tony back to SuRI in 2023 as a relief captain to take SuRi from Tahiti to Costa Rica and now as captain in 2024.

Tony’s friendly and calm nature and over 20 years’ experience on mega yachts make him a valuable leader for crew and guests. He enjoys spear diving, water skiing. wakeboarding, scuba diving, paddle boarding and fishing.

Clinton-Roos-Chief-Officer

Clinton Roos

Captain – Rotation (South Africa)

Profile

Clinton’s roots lie on South Africa’s east coast in the picturesque coastal town of Ballito, where his love for water sports took hold at an early age. Surfing and free diving became his passions, complementing his prowess as an avid sportsman on land. After completing school, he embarked on a career path in boat building, dedicating four years to honing his craft. Seeking new horizons, he made the move to New Zealand, where he continued his journey in the industry, acquiring valuable NZQA certifications in composite boat building, wooden boat building, and marine cabinet building.

In 2009, fate brought Clinton face-to-face with SuRi in New Zealand during a proposed refit project. His exceptional work ethic led him to co-manage the refit, creating a lasting impression. Three years later, SuRi beckoned again, this time in San Francisco for an extension and toy overhaul, making Clinton the ideal choice to manage the projects. Impressed by his experience and skills, the crew welcomed him aboard as a junior deckhand, and his unwavering dedication and capabilities eventually led him to the esteemed position of Captain. His incredible journey on SuRi included a full circumnavigation, logging an impressive 400,000 nautical miles.

Clint’s calm and trustworthy demeanor makes him an exceptional leader and captain.

——-  Deck
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Hayden Huntington

Chief Officer (South Africa)

Profile

Hayden’s heart beats for adventure and the great outdoors, as his childhood was filled with joyful escapades in the South African bushveld, brimming with youthful mischief. Embracing his love for water, he dedicated countless hours to competitive swimming, instilling in him a profound connection with aquatic realms.

After competing a marketing degree, the idea of an office-bound career held no appeal for Hayden. Instead, he embarked on sailing expeditions, exploring Cape Town and venturing as far as St. Helena. It was on Superyachts that he found his true calling, igniting an unwavering passion that has steered his course ever since.

In his leisure moments, Hayden’s lens captures his travels, a testament to his love for photography. When not documenting his journeys, he seeks the thrill of diving, bodyboarding, or foiling, continually seeking new heights of excitement.

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Kieran McLeod

2nd Officer (South Africa)

Profile

Kieran was born and raised in Durban, a surfing destination on the east coast of South Africa’s beautiful coastline. Living only a stone throw away from the beach, this is where Kieran picked up his passion for the ocean.

Going on sailing trips in South Africa and Mozambique with his family from a young age, he grew a desire for being at sea which ultimately led him to the yachting industry. The industry has brought more than he could have expected and broadened his horizons into different cultures and ways of life. In his spare time you can find him dabbling in photography, traveling to off the beaten track surf destinations or deep in the wilds of South Africa.

Michael-Pettitt-Dive-Master-Bosun

Michael Pettitt (Keli)

Dive Master/Bosun (Fiji)

Profile

Raised in Nadi, Fiji, Keli has spent his life on the ocean and has had a great passion for boats since he was a child. This passion led him to pursue work in the dive industry in the islands of Fiji where he gained his vast knowledge of water-toys and water-sports.

Keli was employed aboard SuRi from 2007 to 2014 and after spending some time land-based with his family he returned to SuRi in September 2016 as Dive Instructor/Deckhand. During his time ashore, he managed a recreational water-sports company in the beautiful Mamanuca islands of Fiji.

He uses his vast experience on the water to give our guests unique adventures on and under the sea. Keli possesses exceptional pedagogical skills, allowing him to effectively guide and support each student in their journey to become the best diver they can be. Keli has salt water in his veins and loves any activity involving water. He is a skilled surfer, fisherman and wake-boarder, the list goes on!

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Tristan Nicholson

Deckhand (South Africa)

Profile

Tristan recently joined the yachting industry, beginning his career in the South of France before joining SuRi in the Caribbean. Trsitain grew up in St Francis, South Africa with three older brothers. His older brothers are his role models and was able to learn from them growing up, even learning a few cool tricks (i.e poi fire dancing).

Tristan studied at Nelson Mandela Bay Univeristy for 3 years and got his degree in Quantity Surveying. After University, he went on to work at a contruction company and is now a carpenter.

Having grown up in St Francis on the Krom river, Tristan was drawn to the water at a young age and grew up practicing any type of watersport. For the last 6 years he has enjoyed surfing in St Francs and in Jefferys Bay, which is know in South Africa for havng some of the best waves! Tristan also enjoy runnig and will often find a good route between 5-16km. He also really enjoys a good game of ultimate frisbee!

Nelson-Williams-Deckhand-Profile

Nelson Williams

Deckhand (Fiji)

 

Profile

Bula from Nelson Williams, a true islander, born and raised amidst the breathtaking beauty of Fiji. With a close-knit family, including five sisters, Nelson embraces his role as a devoted family man.

His deep connection with the Pacific Islands and his unwavering love for the sea led him to envision a future working on the ocean. Prior to joining SuRi, Nelson eagerly dayworked on boats in Port Denarau, seizing every opportunity to be near the waters he adores. Beyond his maritime pursuits, he remains actively engaged in his family’s farm, finding solace in exploring nature’s wonders through jungle hikes and the discovery of new places.

With his amiable, kind-hearted, and easy-going nature, Nelson effortlessly captures the affection of both crew and guests alike. SuRi serves as a vessel for his growth and learning within the industry, as he aspires to ascend to the esteemed role of Chief Officer in the days to come.

Pieter-Du-Plessis-Deckhand

Adrian De Beer

Deckhand (South Africa)

Profile

Adrian is a 6’5” friendly giant who spent most of his years in a small town in South Africa. He considers himself a thinker and studied philosphy before joining the yaching industry, with the hopes of bringing it into his career in the future. Adrian loves to be active, and comepted at a high level in kickboxing, tennis, hockey, and soccer. His biggest athlectic achievement however is being able to do a one arm handstand. He’s also enjoys putting his mental grit to the test and has survived five day in the wilderness without food. Adrian feel in love with the ocean when scuba diving in Sodwana Bay, and he is eager to learn more about the ocean all it has to offer. Adrian’s physical endurance, ability to stay calm under pressure and unique perspective makes him a worthy addition ot the team.

Keagen-Wessels-Deckhand

Keagan Wessels

Deckhand (South Africa)

Profile

Keagan is a native of East London, South Africa, where he was born and raised. His formative years were marked by a dual fascination – one with the aquatic realm, where he immersed himself in various water sports, particularly surfing, and the other with the inland landscapes, as he explored the diverse National and private game reserves that South Africa has to offer.

During his school years, Keagan’s ardor for rugby shone brightly, as he excelled on the first team of his school and earned the honor of representing a select side on a tour to New Zealand to participate in rugby matches. In 2021, Keagan ventured into the yachting industry in the United States, embarking on a journey along the East Coast. Notably, he successfully completed a transatlantic crossing from the USA to Europe, traversing a multitude of captivating countries along the way. Keagan’s passion for the ocean, nature and water sports as well as his enthusiasm makes him a great asset to add to the amazing Suri crew.

——-  Interior
Ellesse-Dawson-Chief-Stewardess

Ellesse Dawson

Chief Stewardess (USA)

Profile

Ellesse’s roots lie in Norfolk, Virginia, where she spent her formative years. Her true passion for fashion led her to pursue higher education at Virginia Commonwealth University. Despite her initial focus on the world of fashion, fate had other plans for her as she was introduced to the yachting industry shortly after completing her studies. Embracing the spirit of exploration, Ellesse found her calling in yachting, a seamless fit for her adventurous soul.

Her wanderlust drives her to discover novel destinations, with a particular penchant for exploring new restaurants and savoring the finest culinary experiences in every new location. Yachting further ignited her love for the ocean, leading her to develop a newfound passion for diving, delving into the mesmerizing underwater world.

Ellesse’s dedication to physical fitness is unwavering, and she dedicates ample time to her well-being, frequently working out, running, and hiking. Her active lifestyle complements her exploratory nature, allowing her to relish every moment of her journey in the yachting world and beyond.

Tilde-Wahlborg-2nd-Stewardess

Tilde Wahlborg

2nd Stewardess (Sweden)

Profile

Tilde grew up surrounded by the snowy mountains of Sweden, in a small town called Östersund with her big family of eight. Tilde has been skiing ever since she was little eventually leading to competing and then coaching others in what she loves. Her passion for alpine skiing brought her to international competitions where she learned that hard works always tend to pay off. But after many freezing winters and travels to the snowy parts of the world, she began to chase the sun.

After high school Tilde began a backpacking trip through New Zealand, Fiji, Australia and Indonesia. She quickly learnt that meeting different people and experiencing their cultures was something that she loved and knew that it was going to be a big part of her future. Tilde was introduced to the yachting industry by luck while traveling and started working on her first yacht shortly after. During her time in the industry, she has already seen incredible places and met amazing people. She loves the lifestyle and has no plans to leave this adventures life anytime soon. Tilde is a positive, adventurous, and energetic soul who loves her job and wants to make the best possible experience for all guests.

Robyn-James-Stewardess

Robyn James

Stewardess (South Africa)

Profile

Robyn grew up in Durban, South Africa, where her deep-rooted passion for artistic gymnastics flourished. With an impressive 10-year career as a competitive gymnast representing her country, she eventually decided to transition her focus towards higher education. Pursuing her interest in Events Management and Coordination, which paved the way for an exciting internship opportunity in the vibrant city of Dubai. Following the completion of her internship in Dubai, her heart’s desire was to embrace the open seas once again. Much of her cherished childhood memories revolved around sailing adventures with her family, making her yearn for a return to maritime life.

Robyn’s enthusiasm for life is truly infectious. She possesses a profound passion for travelling and embarking on adventures to explore new destinations, immerse herself in diverse cultures, and meet new people. Her remarkable ability to infuse laughter into the crew and her perpetually radiant smile makes her an absolute joy to be around.

Kathleen-Alting-Stewardess

Kathleen ‘Katy’ Alting

Stewardess (South Africa)

Profile

Katy’s upbringing on a family farm in the Eastern Cape of South Africa immersed her in the world of beekeeping, instilling a deep connection with nature from an early age. However, it was the sea that captured her heart, igniting a lifelong love affair with its wonders. Exploring the coastline, she foraged, fished, and embraced the beauty of snorkeling, eventually becoming an avid competitor in fishing tournaments. She grew up riding and competing on horses at a national level, as well as playing hockey for over 19 years.

A true food enthusiast, Katy delights in exploring culinary experiences. Her quest to visit restaurants featured on cooking shows and eat the local cuisines where the local people eat reflects her genuine passion for savoring delectable dishes.

Driven by an unyielding desire for adventure, Katy’s aspirations include being on the show “Survivor”. She looks forward to meeting all guests on board SuRi for a once in lifetime adventure.

Sara-Gouedouar-Stewardess

Sara Gouedouar

Stewardess (USA)

Profile

Sara frequently moved around the United States throughout her life, developing a love for traveling and seeking new experiences. While studying at a university in New York, Sara attended a business school in the South of France where she discovered the yachting industry. Instead of pursuing a career with her Political Science degree, Sara entered the industry immediately after graduating.

Such a rewarding career has allowed her to travel full-time, including spending all time off flying to different continents for cultural immersion, scuba diving, and hiking. Through this, Sara has discovered some more extreme hobbies such as shark freediving and skydiving. Happily working in hospitality since the age of 13, she was ecstatic to find a way to combine her learned skills with travel and adventure.

——-  Hospitality

Nathan-Soderblom-Head-Chef-Profile

Nathan Soderblom

Head Chef (USA)

Profile

Nathan is from Brooklyn, New York, a vibrant city that exposed him to a diverse array of global cuisines, with each neighborhood offering a unique culinary experience akin to traveling to different parts of the world. After receiving a degree in culinary arts from the Culinary Institute of America in the Hudson Valley he worked in some of the best restaurants in New York. Working under chefs like David Chang and Mario Batali gave Nathan the opportunity to learn many different skills and cuisines.

After completing a wide variety of roles in the Momofuku organization, he departed to work abroad and expand his culinary horizons, first at the two-Michelin-star El Club Allard in Madrid, Spain and then at Tegui in Buenos Aires, Argentina and Astrid & Gaston in Lima, Peru. These experiences taught Nathan countless new techniques and methods and made him more versatile cooking in foreign environments.

Upon returning to New York he sought to increase his scope and responsibility, first running the commissary kitchen program for the Empellón restaurant organization and then as the Chef de Cuisine of 10 Corso Como, an upscale Italian restaurant in the newly built South Street Seaport in lower Manhattan.

Nathan has now worked in the world of yachting since 2020 and is continuing his adventures while bring his worldly teachings to guests onboard MY SuRi.

——-  Engineering
Josip-Labetic-Chief-Engineer-Profile

Josip Labetic

Chief Engineer – Rotation (Croatia)

Profile

Josip hails from the picturesque town of Split, Croatia, a coastal gem founded 1700 years ago by the Roman emperor Diocletian on the shores of the Adriatic Sea. He earned a bachelor’s degree in marine engineering at the University of Split. As a student, he embraced the ocean’s allure and spent his summers as a sailing boat skipper.

His family fishermen from the island of Brac, which naturally made Josip quite connected with the sea. Unsurprisingly, upon graduating, he started his journey onboard cruise ships. He had sailed through all the Caribbean, Central and North America including the new Panama Canal. His travels have allowed him to explore the vibrant streets of numerous US cities, but it is the free spirit and beauty of New York that have left a lasting impression on him. In his free time Josip enjoys reading all kind of books, but mostly Sc-Fi; Asimov is his favourite author. He likes to learn about new things and technologies, is currently learning programming and working with microcontrollers.

Josip plays table tennis and rides mountain bikes whenever he can. But of course, football (soccer) is big part of every Croatian. He plays it at home with friends weekly. He is a huge supporter of a local club Hajduk Split and Liverpool FC.

Ivan Kezic

Chief Engineer – Rotation (Croatia)

Profile

Ivan was born in Dubrovnik, Croatia, a beautiful town which is often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic”. Since he was a kid, he had strong bond with the sea and knew that life on a boat would be his calling. Ivan has been sailing for 25 years, starting his career on Cruise Ships, and now furthering his career in the Super Yacht industry.

Ivan loves his job because it gives him the opportunity to see the world and meet people from all over the world. He enjoys being able to learn and experience all the different cultures. He has been lucky enough to walk on all seven continents and has visited more than 100 countries. During his time off he enjoys spending time with his wife and 3 children. They often go on family vacation as he wants his kids to be able to explore and see as much as they can, so they are able to appreciate and enjoy the world that surrounds us.

Marko-Raic-2nd-Engineer-Profile

Marko Raic

2nd Engineer (Croatia)


Profile

Marko hails from the picturesque city of Dubrovnik, Croatia. He attended Marine Technical School where he honed his skills and earned his engineering qualifications. He showcased his expertise by skillfully repairing small boats and luxury yachts in his hometown. Marko sought to broaden his horizons, and thus he transitioned to working aboard cargo ships. This enriching experience not only allowed him to amass two years of invaluable expertise but also took him on a mesmerizing circumnavigation of the globe.

Beyond his maritime endeavors, in his spare time, he enjoys exercising in the gym and has a black belt in judo, a testament to his discipline and commitment. Embracing his passion for speed and thrill he also enjoys driving motorbikes.

Marko has been onboard SuRi now for nearly four years and is now a fully licensed chief engineer hoping to someday take on the Chief responsibilities.

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Wesley Robertson

3rd Engineer (South Africa)

Profile

Meet Wesley, the adventure-seeking engineer from the beautiful coastline of South Africa! He started his journey as a Deckhand but worked his way up to Bosun. That was when the excitement for the engineering department began to intrest him. During his time onboard yachts he has been crusing the Mediterranean sea, USA and The Caribbean.

Growing up, Wesley played both cricket and rygby and at a later stage got older he became a personal trainer and did bodybuilding.

With a thirst for cultural experiences, Wesley has travled extensively, trying new things and immersing himself in local traditions. He spent two months in silence at an Ashram in India, studying Buddhism and meeting the Dalai Lama! He has also tracked Silverback gorillas in Uganda, hiked Kilimanjaro and spent 13 months solo-traveling, soaking up the world’s wonders. Besides working towards his 2nd Engineer unlimited he wants to persue his passion for wildlife and help save the population of lions.