NO SURRENDER Yacht Charter

Captain: Eric Stenson

Eric Stenson: Captain
Nationality: American
Languages: English

Education: Bachelor of Business administration in Business Communications, U.S.C.G. 200 GRT / 500 ICT Master, Near Coastal (Second Issue), STCW 95, Radar Certified, Advanced Fire Fighting, Lifeboatman/fast rescue boat certified

Captain Eric Stenson was raised in a small coastal town in Massachusetts where life moved a little slower. He and his siblings had a childhood full of simple joys – bonfires on the beach, exploring rocky shorelines, biking through quiet streets, fishing from the docks, and developing a lifelong connection and respect for the ocean that shaped a natural transition into the world of yachting.

He brings over four years of charter experience, previously working on boats such as M/Y Midnight, M/Y Hoya Saxa, M/Y Island Runner and M/Y Making Waves. Currently the Captain of M/Y NO SURRENDER.

Eric’s greatest asset is his reliability and adaptability, consistently bringing a calm, solution-oriented mindset to the team, whether under pressure or during high demand charters. He wants guests to walk away from their charter feeling completely relaxed, cared for, and genuinely amazed. His goal for them is to experience seamless service, personalized attention, and unforgettable moments whether that’s a quiet morning coffee on deck, a beautifully set dinner under the stars, or a day full of watersports and laughter. He and his crew strive to make guests feel like every detail was thoughtfully taken care of, leaving them with lasting memories and a desire to return.

He loves working alongside his fiancé, who is the Chief Stewardess. They make a strong team, both personally and professionally, with great communication and mutual respect that helps create a smooth and positive atmosphere on board.

His personal motto is “Stay steady, stay ready”, since things in yachting can change in an instance. He believes in staying calm, prepared and adaptable no matter the situation.


Avery Russell: Mate
Nationality: American
Languages: English, Afrikaans, Spanish

Education: 100T uscg, Stcw, Vpdsd, Medical

Avery grew up in Atlanta with his 11 half-sisters as the oldest and the only boy. He spent his time skateboarding, playing tennis, basketball, golf and various water sports. Before his path lead to yachting, he worked as a semi pro tennis player and a bartender.

He’s been boating for 12 years, 7 of those years were charters on boats such as M/Y HOYA, M/Y GALE WINDS, M/Y RELENTLESS, M/Y TAILLIGHTS, M/Y FAR FROM IT, M/Y ZOOM X 3, M/Y HOYA SAXA and M/Y MILAGROS.

In his current role as Mate on board M/Y NO SURRENDER, he brings invaluable experience and a strong commitment to excellence. His greatest asset is his longevity in the yachting industry, paired with a proactive, team-oriented attitude. Always ready to assist across all departments, he is also dedicated to training the crew to the highest yachting standards. For guests, his goal is to create unforgettable experiences that leave a lasting impression, the kind that make them never want to leave.

Avery’s favorite cruising destination is the Exumas, a place that feels like a second home to him. Having spent so much time there, he knows all the best spots and has mastered the weekly charter routine for excursions and fishing. Fishing is his true passion, and he’s always happy to share that experience with guests who are interested.

In the future, he hopes to open his own yacht club and resort, along with running a charter program for vessels up to 150 feet.

His motto is “Simple is sexy”

Meagan Bilodeau: Chief Stewardess
Nationality: American
Languages: English

Education: B.A. from Salve Regina University in Newport, RI in English communications and pre-law

Born and raised in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Meagan has always had a deep connection to the ocean. During her senior year of high school, a neighbor who managed a local boat company offered her a summer position aboard one of their vessels. This experience not only introduced her to the marine industry but also led to meeting her fiancé, Captain Eric. Since then, the couple has grown both personally and professionally, working together in yachting while traveling the world.

One of Meagan’s most formative childhood passions was martial arts, through which she earned a black belt. The discipline and confidence gained from this training helped propel her into the world of pageantry. Beginning at age 17, she has competed in the Miss America, Miss USA, and Miss Volunteer America systems, most recently earning the title of Miss Maine Volunteer.

Meagan began her yachting career the same month she graduated from Salve Regina University. Throughout college, she worked extensively in the marine industry, gaining experience aboard commercial vessels, dinner cruises, and ferries throughout Massachusetts. She was previously on two charters M/Y HOYA SAXA and M/Y MIDNIGHT, currently working as a chief stewardess onboard M/Y NO SURRENDER.

As Chief Stewardess, she is dedicated to ensuring every guest experiences a true sense of luxury, comfort, and personal connection from the moment they step on board. She accomplishes this through thoughtful service, seamless team coordination, and meticulous attention to the small details that elevate each experience - whether that means customizing a favorite cocktail, organizing a themed dinner, or preparing a stateroom exactly to the guest’s preferences. Attuned to both spoken and unspoken needs, she takes pride in leading an interior team that works effortlessly behind the scenes to make every interaction feel natural and intuitive. Her goal is for guests to feel not only pampered but genuinely at home.

She aims to continue growing within the yachting industry throughout her twenties, building on a strong foundation of skills while embracing the unique travel opportunities the lifestyle offers. She is especially grateful to share this journey with her fiancé, who also serves as the captain on board.

When not working or enhancing her expertise through courses such as WSET and interior design, she can often be found at Disney. An annual pass holder and wedding planner-to-be at the park, Disney remains her happy place.

Beyond yachting and Disney, she holds the title of Mrs. Miami 2025 and will compete for Mrs. Florida America in the coming May. Staying active is a key part of her lifestyle, with Pilates, martial arts, hot yoga, and distance running among her favorite pursuits. Wellness, discipline, and creativity inform her life both on and off the water, and she is always happy to guide guests through yoga flows or martial arts sessions.

Her motto is “You can do both”. She believes that pursuing personal growth alongside professional excellence only strengthens her. Even while working full-time aboard and traveling extensively, she remains committed to following her dreams and pushing beyond her comfort zones. From volunteering to public appearances, she stays active and purpose-driven, taking pride in maintaining a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.


Ceara Lasley: Stewardess/Deckhand
Nationality: American
Languages: English

Education: Bacholor of Science, Human Recorces and Art, STCW, ENG 1, VPDSD, Powerboat 2

Ceara was born in Knoxville, Tennessee, but spent much of her childhood in southwest Minnesota, dividing her time between farms and mountainous areas. Raised alongside her mother and brother, and usually accompanied by dogs, Ceara developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors. Her current canine companion is Boone, an English Labrador. Growing up, she spent countless hours fishing, hiking, and enjoying water sports at the lake. An avid athlete, she played multiple sports and was also a passionate reader.

Ceara attended South Dakota State University, where she majored in Advertising and minored in Graphic Design. During college, she gained valuable experience as a social media content creator for the university’s athletic teams. Alongside her studies, she worked in retail, waitressing, and on farms. Prior to starting her yachting career, Ceara worked as an electrical apprentice.

Having grown up around boats and with a lifelong love for the water, Ceara chose to pursue yachting as a way to combine travel, her passion for being on the water, and the excitement of trying something new. In just four months, she has worked aboard M/Y AMORE and M/Y ARTHUR’S WAY as a deck/stew. Currently working as a deck hand/stewardess onboard M/Y NO SURRENDER. Her strongest assets include a relentless work ethic and an unwavering determination, paired with a natural ability to bring positive energy and laughter to the team.

She strives to ensure that charter guests leave feeling completely relaxed, cared for, and reconnected - with themselves, their surroundings, and their companions. Whether orchestrating a high energy adventure or a tranquil retreat, Ceara focuses on creating a seamless, personalized atmosphere. She takes joy in helping guests feel at ease, savor the moment, and depart with unforgettable memories.

Outside of yachting, Ceara enjoys watching anime, sleeping, fishing, hiking, and reading. She is also skilled at teaching others how to work with electronics and navigate trendy new apps. Her ambition is to continue advancing within the yachting industry and eventually become an engineer. Beyond her career, she dreams of traveling the world.

Her motto is “Become stronger than yesterday.”

Fernando Gomez: Chef
Nationality: American
Languages: English, Spanish

Education: Crandon Institute of International Gastronomy

With over two decades of experience, Chef Fernando Gomez has dedicated his life to the art of cooking. Born and raised in the charming town of Canelones, Uruguay, his passion for food began early. At just 14 years old, Fernando took his first steps into the culinary world as an apprentice pastry chef at Maxinel, one of Uruguay’s most beloved bakeries. His dedication and talent quickly propelled him through the ranks, eventually leading him to manage the entire operation.

Driven by an insatiable desire to master his craft, Fernando pursued formal culinary education at the prestigious Crandon Institute of International Gastronomy. There, he was classically trained in French, Italian, and Latin cuisines - refining both technique and creativity. His time at Crandon laid a strong foundation that would shape the rest of his career

Fernando’s journey later took him to Wilton, Connecticut, where he continued to build his expertise in a variety of American kitchens. His resume includes renowned establishments such as Hotel Americano, Rocking Raw Vegan, Sweetgrass Farm to Table, Jack’s Steak House, and Bianco Rosso. Each experience helped him blend international flavors with local techniques, enriching his culinary perspective.

Most recently, Fernando moved to Miami, where he joined forces with celebrity Chef Brian Aaron at Aaron’s Catering. Working alongside Chef Aaron gave Fernando insight into the world of high-end events and elite clientele like Chris Bosh and the Kardashians.

Today, Chef Fernando focuses on crafting inclusive menus that cater to diverse lifestyles and dietary preferences. His specialties range from vibrant tapas selections to innovative vegan creations all prepared with the same dedication and love that have guided his career since day one.

Chef Fernando brings a rare combination of global training, heartfelt passion, and inventive flair to every dish he creates.