Crossed Sabre

About the Crew

Name: Simon Alway
Position: Captain (Rotation)
Nationality: British

PREVIOUS YACHTS: M/Y Lady Joy, M/Y Marjorie Morningstar, M/Y Freedom, M/Y Aurora B, M/Y Lady Marina, M/Y Tatoosh Simon grew up in Wiltshire, England and developed his love of the water while sailing on the South coast of England. After studying Yacht Manufacturing in Southampton and working for a boat builder for a short while, he decided that he would rather be working onboard yachts than building them. After joining his first yacht in 2000, Simon has travelled the world on yachts and finally settled down in Montreal, Canada where he now lives with his wife and 2 sons.
WATERS CRUISED: Mediterranean, too many Atlantic crossings, Caribbean, Bahamas, US East Coast.
JOB DESCRIPTION: To safely ensure the best experience possible is provided to the Owner and all Guests. LICENSES & CERTIFICATES: MCA Master (Yachts <3000GRT), Openwater diver, STCW
INTERESTS: Motorcycling, Hiking, Sailing, Motorsports and DIY

Name: Marc Lariviere
Position: Captain (Rotation)
Nationality: Canadian

PREVIOUS YACHTS: M/Y Ostar, M/Y Valkyrie, M/Y Touch, M/Y Chasing Daylight, M/Y Mirabella.
Captain Marc hails from Montreal, Canada, where his love for boating began early. In his twenties, he set off with a one-way ticket and a single suitcase, landing in the Caribbean to start his nautical career. At 22, he became captain of a sport fishing vessel, combining his passions for fishing and adventure. By 28, while living in Saint Martin, he shifted to larger yachts and rose quickly through the ranks. With global experience and sharp navigational skills, Captain Marc delivers an exceptional charter experience aboard CROSSED SABRE.
WATERS CRUISED: Alaska, U.S. West Coast, Mexico, Central America, Caribbean Sea, U.S. Southeast Coast, New England, Mediterranean, Indian Ocean (Secheylles and Maldives), Indonesia.
JOB DESCRIPTION: With safety as the top priority, focus is on delivering the most memorable vacation our guests have ever experienced.
LICENSES & CERTIFICATES: MCA Master (Yachts <3000GRT), Openwater diver. STCW
INTERESTS: spending time outdoors - camping, fishing, and hiking whenever possible. Recently picked up golf and enjoys it so much he travels with his clubs wherever he goes.

Name: Patrick O'Donnell
Position: Chief Engineer (Rotation) & Dive Master
Nationality: UK, Scotland

PREVIOUS YACHTS: M/Y Touch, M/Y Sealyon, M/Y Nassima, M/Y Adora
Patrick joined the British Merchant Navy at the age of 18, spending time on deep-sea cargo vessels while studying mechanical and marine engineering at the Glasgow College of Nautical Studies. In 2016, Patrick started working in the yachting industry as a Second Engineer on larger yachts and as Sole/Chief Engineer since 2018.
WATERS CRUISED: Worldwide
JOB DESCRIPTION: The chief engineer maintains all the yacht’s systems in top condition- engines, generators, electrical, air- conditioning, refrigeration, fueling, sanitation, computers and hydraulics. Together with the assistant engineer, the chief ensures everything is in proper working order.
LICENSES & CERTIFICATES: EOOW unlimited. Dive Master. STCW
INTERESTS: Golfing, Snowboarding, Wakeboarding, Diving, Rock Climbing & Fencing.

Name: David Salazar
Position: Chief Engineer (Rotation)
Nationality: Venezuela

PREVIOUS YACHTS: M/Y Le Montrachet, 40m, C/S Mariner of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas.
Growing up in Valencia, Venezuela, David developed a passion for the sea and engineering from an early age. Right after finishing school, he launched his maritime career with Royal Caribbean International, steadily advancing to the role of Second Engineer. After more than a decade working aboard major cruise ships, David transitioned into the yachting industry, where he enjoys offering a more personal and hands-on level of service to guests. With extensive technical expertise and a commitment to excellence, David ensures a safe and seamless experience onboard.
JOB DESCRIPTION: Maintain all critical yacht systems — including engines, generators, electrical, air-conditioning, refrigeration, fueling, sanitation, computers, and hydraulics — in top condition. Work closely with the Assistant Engineer to guarantee smooth and safe operations at all times.
LICENSES & CERTIFICATES: Chief Engineer Unlimited. STCW III/2
INTERESTS: Kite surfing, mountain biking, free diving.

Name: Santiago Cordova
Position: Chief Officer
Nationality: Mexican

PREVIOUS YACHTS: M/Y Ocean’s 11, M/Y Grand Illusion, M/Y Seven Sins, M/Y Spring, M/V Camila, M/V Tamara.
Santiago was born and raised in Mazatlán, Mexico. He has always loved being on the ocean, enjoying watersports and surfing. Passionate about the outdoors, he spends his free time camping and going on road trips. His background in commercial vessels has given him an immense amount of knowledge that he now applies to the yachting industry. Santiago loves to serve others, is open-minded, and holds great respect for the ocean.
WATERS CRUISED: Northern Pacific, Gulf of Mexico, Mediterranean, Adriatic Sea, Ionian Sea, Caribbean.
JOB DESCRIPTION: Work closely with the Captain to perform administrative and safety duties, manage the deck team, and maintain crew discipline onboard. Additional responsibilities include boat handling, watchkeeping, and navigation. He is also qualified to step in for the Captain in his absence.
LICENSES/CERTIFICATES: Master 3000 GT Reg II/2, Ship Security Officer, ECDIS, Radar Operation, GMDSS Operator, Bridge Resource Management, Fast Rescue Boats, PADI Open Water, STCW.
INTERESTS: Surfing, Snorkeling, Kayaking, Wakeboarding, Outdoors & Diving

Name: Ben Vieyra
Position: Chief Officer (rotation)
Nationality: British

PREVIOUS YACHTS: M/Y Synthesis M/Y Shadow
Ben’s passion for the ocean was inspired by his adventurous father. After earning his PADI Instructor certification in Utila, Honduras, he built a career as a professional dive instructor before transitioning to yachting in 2020. He studied Marine Environmental Management at the University of Plymouth. Ben has guided unforgettable snorkeling and diving adventures around the world, including encounters with humpback whales in the Dominican Republic and the South Pacific. Calm, professional, and upbeat, Ben is dedicated to delivering top-tier watersports experiences onboard CROSSED SABRE — balancing serious fun with a strong commitment to safety.
WATERS CRUISED: The Bahamas, Caribbean, Panama, Costa Rica, Galapagos, Pacific coast of Mexico, Sea of Cortez, Canada and Alaska.
JOB DESCRIPTION: Assist the Rotational Captain with administrative, safety, and deck operations. Manage the deck team and maintain crew discipline. Additional duties include boat handling, watchkeeping, and navigation. I am also qualified to assume command in the Captain’s absence.
LICENSES & CERTIFICATES: YM Offshore (Commercially Endorsed), PADI Diving Instructor, STCW
INTERESTS: Gym training, calisthenics, watersports, freediving, running.

Name: Antoine Malet
Position: Chef (Rotation)
Nationality: French

PREVIOUS YACHTS: M/Y Lady Joy, M/Y TC, M/Y G3
Antoine, originally from Brittany, France, brings over 15 years of culinary expertise honed in some of the world’s finest kitchens. He has worked at Michelin-starred restaurants in France, Australia, and New Zealand, learning from renowned chefs along the way. His passion for both fine dining and the sea led him to yachting, where he offers guests exceptional dining experiences onboard, ensuring each meal leaves an unforgettable impression. With a deep commitment to excellence, Antoine’s culinary creations combine the art of French cuisine with the unique flavors of the sea.
WATERS CRUISED: Bahamas, Caribbean, Pacific, Mediterranean
JOB DESCRIPTION: Design personalized menus, handle provisioning, and prepare exquisite meals for guests and crew. Oversee food budgeting, stock control, and manage the galley’s safety standards to ensure seamless operations.
LICENSES & CERTIFICATES: Culinary Degree, Food Hygiene, Ship Cook Certificate, Winner of the Best Chef Competition at SXM Lagoon Festival 2024, STCW
HOBBIES & INTERESTS: Kite surfing, bodyboarding, music

Name: Jon R. Lees
Position: CHEF (rotation)
Nationality: UNITED KINGDOM

PREVIOUS YACHTS: M/Y Zeus, M/Y Alibi, M/Y Volpini, M/Y Solaia, M/Y Oxygen.
Jon was born in Cornwall, UK. After training as a chef in Chester, he spent 10 years working across some of the UK’s most prestigious hotels and restaurants. His love for the mountains and snowboarding later led him to seasonal roles in five-star hotels and chalets throughout the French and Italian Alps. Jon eventually left life on land behind to further his culinary career at sea and has now spent the past 12 years sailing the world. He also spends extended periods in Asia, where he immerses himself in local cultures and cuisines, continually expanding his culinary repertoire while drawing inspiration from regional flavors and techniques.
WATERS CRUISED: U.S. East and West Coast, Bahamas, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Panama, Southeast Asia, Bali.
JOB DESCRIPTION: Design personalized menus, handle provisioning and prepare exquisite meals for guests and crew. Oversee food budgeting, stock control, and manage the galley’s safety standards to ensure seamless operations.
LICENSES & CERTIFICATES: STCW, Level 3 Diploma Culinary, Advanced Diver, Ships Cook Certification, Hygiene Certification,
3rd Place Antigua Boat Show.
HOBBIES & INTERESTS: Snowboarding, skateboarding, running, gym.

Name: Zuzanna Kilanowicz
Position: Chief Stewardess (Rotation)
Nationality: Polish

PREVIOUS YACHTS: M/Y LADY JOY, M/Y TRIDENT, M/Y OLOKUM, M/Y TATOOSH, M/Y KOLAHA
Zuza grew up in a picturesque mountain town in southern Poland. After earning a degree in cosmetology, she moved to the south of France, where she launched a VIP makeup business and transitioned into elite hospitality. Her love for the sea, combined with her dedication to exceptional service and attention to detail, made yachting a natural career choice. Zuza looks forward to welcoming new guests and providing them with an unforgettable experience onboard.
WATERS CRUISED: Mediterranean, Atlantic Crossings, Caribbean including Bahamas, US East Coast mostly Florida. JOB DESCRIPTION: Lead the interior department of M/Y CROSSED SABRE; manage guest services, interior operations, and the stewardess team; ensure exceptional hospitality, cleanliness, and organization, playing a vital role in delivering a five-star experience for guests.
LICENCES AND CERTIFICATES: STCW, ENG1, Food Safety Level 2, Proficiency in Designated Security Duties, Silver Service, WSET level 2, Open Water Padi diving certificate, Makeup Certificate
HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: boxing, skiing, pottery, cooking and travelling

Name: Loni Risdon
Position: Chief Stewardess (Rotation)
Nationality: UK, Scottish

PREVIOUS YACHTS: M/Y QUINTA ESSENTIA 55M | M/Y ACE 87M| M/Y LADY M 24M
Loni was born and raised in Scotland, but eager to discover the world and gain new life experiences, she swapped her native cool and rainy weather for the sunshine of Palma de Mallorca, where she quickly discovered the yachting industry. During her time in Spain, she learned Spanish fluently and now looks forward to becoming proficient in new languages. Her polite and bubbly personality helps her build successful relationships with guests and crew members alike.
WATERS CRUISED: Mediterranean & Indian Ocean
JOB DESCRIPTION: Accommodate guest needs; maintain the highest standards of the exterior and interior, table presentation, flower arrangements, laundry, housekeeping, service, and bartending.
LICENSES & CERT􀀬F􀀬CATES: STCW, ENG1, Power Boat & Jetski License
INTERESTS: Horseback Riding, Photography & Pilates.

Name: Evie Cripps
2nd Stewardess
Nationality: British

PREVIOUS YACHTS: M/Y Rahil
Evie grew up in the historic city of Gloucester, U.K., and has always loved adventure and travel. At 19, she spent time living in Sydney and traveling around Australia, sparking a lifelong passion for exploration. After graduating with a B.Sc. in Geography, Evie discovered the world of PR and communications, working with travel, fashion, and luxury lifestyle brands to create show-stopping events and build strong media relations. Inspired by her love for exploration and the ocean, Evie transitioned into yachting in 2024, eager to build a career that combined adventure with exceptional guest service.
MY JOB: Support guest needs with personalized service while maintaining the highest standards in housekeeping, table presentation, flower arrangements, laundry, and bartending. Also, assist with the upkeep of interior and exterior spaces, ensuring every detail exceeds expectations.
LICENSES & CERTIFICATES: STCW, Food Safety & Hygiene Level II.
HOBBIES & INTERESTS: Exploring, hiking, surfing & pilates

Name: Lauren Robertson
Position: Stewardess
Nationality: American

PREVIOUS YACHT: M/Y Mirabella, M/Y Kaleen
Originally from northern Georgia, Lauren holds a degree in Biology and has always been inspired by travel and the sea. After volunteering at a primary school in Fiji, she discovered her passion for hospitality and cultural exploration. Her path into yachting felt like a natural evolution—combining her attention to detail with her love of people and adventure. Now a valued member of CROSSED SABRE’s interior team, Lauren brings warmth, professionalism, and genuine care for guests, ensuring every charter feels both effortless and extraordinary. Off duty, she enjoys Pilates, cooking, and discovering tranquil destinations around the world.
WATERS CRUISED: Caribbean.
JOB DESCRIPTION: Accommodate guest needs; maintain the highest standards of the exterior and interior, table presentation, flower arrangements, laundry, housekeeping, service, and bartending.
CERTIFICATES: STCW, Food Safety Level 2, Proficiency in Designated Security Duties, Open Water Padi Diving Certificate.
INTERESTS: Pilates, cooking, traveling.

Name: Dirk Van Jaarsveldt
Position: Bosun
Nationality: South Africa

PREVIOUS YACHTS: M/Y Halcyon, M/Y Kaleen, M/Y Mirabella.
Born and raised in South Africa, Dirk has always felt most at home on the water. He joined yachting in 2022, combining his love for the ocean with
a passion for travel and adventure. With an easygoing nature and a good sense of humor, Dirk brings a calm and friendly energy to life onboard. He’s happiest when guests are out enjoying the toys or when there’s time for
a swim and some fun after a busy day. When he’s not in the water, you’ll probably find him trying to master his golf swing—with more enthusiasm than skill—or enjoying good company and a great view.
WATERS CRUISED: Bahamas, U.S., Caribbean and Mediterranean.
MY JOB: Assist guests with all water toys and maintain the yacht’s exterior to the highest standards. Extensive knowledge of all equipment.
LICENSES & CERTIFICATES: STCW, YachtMaster Offshore, OOW Modules, PADI Advanced Open Water & Nitrox.
HOBBIES & INTERESTS: Videography, hiking and golf.

Name: Thiago Dos Santos
Position: Deck Engineer / Dive Instructor
Nationality: Brazil

PREVIOUS YACHTS: M/Y Blufynn.
Born in São Paulo, Brazil, Thiago began his career in mechanics before pursuing a degree and master’s specialization in personal training. His passion for sports and fitness naturally evolved into a love for the ocean when he discovered scuba diving. “Underwater, it’s another planet,” he says. What began as a hobby soon became a calling, leading him from Brazil’s dive centers to the world of yachting. Today, Thiago brings his precision, strength, and adventurous spirit to CROSSED SABRE, sharing his love of the sea and exploring new horizons alongside every guest.
WATERS CRUISED: Bahamas, Caribbean.
JOB DESCRIPTION: Maintain the yacht’s exterior in meticulous order; coordinate and facilitate water sports and water activities; help the Chief Engineer maintain all yacht systems during trips.
LICENSES & CERTIFICATES: STCW, Master of Yachts Limited 200GT, AEC1and AEC2, Power Boat Level 2, Dive Instructor, Personal Training, Cross Fit (CF-L1)..
HOBBIES & INTERESTS: Diving, soccer, hiking and traveling.

Name: Santiago Quintana
Position: Deckhand
Nationality: Mexico

PREVIOUS YACHTS: M/Y Eau La La.
Santiago enjoys staying active and spending time reading, journaling, and focusing on personal well-being. His love for the ocean began when he became a Dive Master, working in dive centers across Mexico, where he also discovered an interest in underwater photography. He later transitioned into yachting as a deckhand and is excited to continue advancing his career aboard CROSSED SABRE. Known for his positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to take on new challenges, Santiago takes pride in being a dependable team player while helping create an exceptional experience for both guests and crew onboard.
WATERS CRUISED: Bahamas, Sea of Cortez.
MY JOB: Assisting guests with all water toys and maintaining the yacht’s exterior to the highest standard.
LICENSES & CERTIFICATES: STCW, Powerboat Level 2, AEC1, VPDSD, Dive Master.
HOBBIES & INTERESTS: Videography, spear fishing, Scuba diving, horseback riding, reading.