CAPTAIN

Andres Smith

Andres, hailing from Venezuela, personifies a blend of technical aptitude and an intrepid soul. With a degree in mechanical engineering, he seamlessly dived into the world of yachting head-on, complementing his skills as an airplane pilot. Andres’s profound love for nature propels him to explore new corners of the globe, igniting his passion for yachting to connect with the world’s wonders. Whether he’s soaring through the skies, navigating rugged terrains, or delving into the ocean’s depths, Andres thrives on the thrill of adventure and the beauty of the natural world.

Nationality: Venezuala
Languages:
English, Spanish
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Safe Haven, M/Y Abvios, M/Y Alegria, M/Y #OMG
Interests: Flying airplanes, Motocross, Playing guitar, Outdoor activities, running & hiking

CHEF

Emilia Sabina Stefanelli

Born and raised in Southern Italy, I grew up in a family where cooking was a way of life, rooted in homegrown ingredients, seasonality, and shared meals. Inspired by my grandparents—my grandmother in the kitchen and my grandfather in organic farming—I developed a deep respect for food from an early age.

At 14, I began my culinary journey at Accademia Italiana Chef in Bologna, building a strong foundation in classical Italian cuisine while gaining hands-on experience in hotels and restaurants. I later expanded my skills across both kitchen and front-of-house roles, developing a well-rounded understanding of hospitality.

My career spans international experience across Spain, Germany, Canada, and the United States, including eight years at Terroni Restaurant in Los Angeles. I’ve worked on pop-ups, private events, and festivals like Burning Man, and transitioned into private cheffing and yacht cuisine, where precision and adaptability are key.

My cooking is ingredient-driven, combining respect for natural flavors with modern techniques. I focus on simplicity, quality, and refined presentation to create memorable dining experiences.

Previous Yachts: Star Ship, Island Cowboy, Safe Haven, Record Year, Freedom

CHIEF STEWARDESS

Melissa Rodriguez

Melissa’s roots in Mexico City seeded her profound love for the sea, nature, and wildlife. Driven by an insatiable curiosity for exploration, she ventured across continents, immersing herself in diverse cultures from Canada, Europe to the Southern Hemisphere. These journeys have sculpted Melissa into a cultural connoisseur, fostering adaptability and excellence in service provision wherever her travels lead. Her warmth and genuine hospitality, coupled with her meticulous attention to detail, guarantee guests an unforgettable experience marked by unparalleled service and uncompromising standards. Melissa’s mission is to leave every guest with memories as vibrant as her welcoming smile.

Nationality: Mexico
Languages:
English, Spanish, Italian
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Victoria Del Mar, M/Y Alegria, M/Y Abvios, M/Y Safe Haven
Interests: Yoga, Reading, Traveling, Outdoor activities, running & hiking

2nd Stewardess

Victoria Wiltshire

Victoria hails from the vibrant city of Auckland, New Zealand. With nearly four years of experience as a stewardess, she has seamlessly blended her passion for travel and love of sunshine with a career in the yachting world. Her keen eye for detail, pursuit of perfection, and natural affinity for people make her an exceptional stewardess, bringing a unique touch of hospitality to every voyage. Before embarking on her yachting journey, Victoria enjoyed a dynamic career as a professional dancer and dance instructor. Her background in dance has instilled in her a strong sense of discipline, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Despite living abroad for several years, Victoria’s heart remains firmly rooted in New Zealand. She cherishes her breathtaking landscapes and the sense of belonging they provide.

Nationality: New Zealand
Languages:
English
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Lohanka, M/Y Avanti, M/Y Lacey Kay, M/Y Mogambo, M/Y Senses
Interests: Dancing, Gym, Yoga, Reading, Traveling

FIRST OFFICER

Alex Guntner

Alex, born and raised in Albany, New York, where his early years were naturally filled with the excitement of ice hockey, snow skiing, and activities that fueled his love for adventure and the outdoors. Transitioning from snowy slopes to the open seas, Alex has embraced the yachting lifestyle, exploring five continents and covering over 50,000 miles of yacht travel. Alex’s passion for the water extends beyond yachting. He enjoys scuba diving and spending entire days on the water, relishing the serenity and beauty of the marine environment. Whether it is the dead of night or the peak of day, Alex can be found ensuring the safety and comfort of all guests on board, making each voyage smooth and enjoyable.

Nationality: USA
Languages:
English, Spanish
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Lohanka, M/Y Avanti, M/Y Lacey Kay, M/Y Ingognito, M/Y Crown Jewel
Interests: Reading, Sailing, Vintage Cars

ENGINEER

Marco Tostado

Hailing from a quaint Mexican town prominent for its maritime industrial prowess, Marco was inspired to pursue engineering at a maritime academy. With nine years of experience in this sector, he has served aboard commercial vessels and expansive cruise ships all before entering the world of yachting, endlessly delighting guests with his sense of humor along the way. Marco’s buoyant spirit and perpetual grin infuse every corner of the boat, fostering a positive atmosphere for all. An avid enthusiast of physical activity, he enjoys long walks, hiking adventures, and regular workouts, alongside indulging in various water sports.

Nationality: Mexico
Languages:
English, Spanish
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Babas, M/Y Far Niente, M/Y Safe Haven
Interests: Experiencing new cultures & countries, running & hiking, Outdoor Activities

DECKHAND

Angel Rodriguez

Born in the vibrant heart of Mexico City, Angel has always had a thirst for adventure. From scaling Mexico’s majestic mountain peaks to exploring its lush forests and coastlines, Angel’s journey has been shaped by a love for the great outdoors. Each summit he has reached has reinforced his belief that with determination and resilience, we can achieve anything we want. Beyond his passion for exploration, Angel is an avid racket sports enthusiast. This balance between adventure and athleticism defines Angel’s dynamic spirit, making him a cherished member of the VESPER team.

Nationality: Mexico
Languages:
English, Spanish
Previous Yachts:
M/Y Safe Haven and M/Y Mira Two
Interests: Alpinism and hiking, Aviation, Playing tennis, Cooking and food lover, Traveling