Crossed Sabre Yacht Charter

Captain: Mike Conquest / Simon Alway

Crew Profiles, Dec 5, 2024


Name: Mike Conquest
Position: Captain (rotation)
Nationality: British

PREVIOUS YACHTS: M/Y Bojangles, M/Y Africa, M/Y Golden Eagle Mike was born in Yorkshire where he started his love for sailing at an early age. He then spent time in the South of England, 8 years in the South of France before settling back in the UK. Mike enjoys many outdoor activities including watersports, skiing, golfing, tennis, and squash, and previously taught technology and P.E. in secondary schools and spent over six years making bespoke furniture. With over 160,000 NM Mike is sure to make your journey both safe and enjoyable. WATERS CRUISED: Mediterranean, Multiple Atlantic Crossings, Caribbean, Cuba, Bahamas, US East Coast JOB DESCRIPTION: To ensure the safety of guests and crew by creating a happy and safe environment with prudent navigation and operational management of the yacht. LICENSES & CERTIFICATES: MCA Master of Yachts <3000 GT, RYA Coach/Trainer/Instructor in dinghies, powerboats, motor and sailing yacht.
INTERESTS: Watersports, Skiing, Golfing, Tennis, Squash & Keeping Fit.

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
INTERESTS: Motorcycling, Hiking, Sailing, Motorsports and DIY

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 after high school, spending time on deep sea cargo vessels while studying mechanical/marine engineering at the Glasgow College of Nautical Studies. For the past eight years Patrick has been working in the yachting industry as 2nd engineer on larger yachts and for the past six years as sole/ chief engineer. 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.
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. David grew up in Valencia, Venezuela. David knew from a young age he had a love for working at sea. Immediately after school he joined The Royal Caribbean international cruise ship as an engineer, progressing in his career up the ranks to second engineer. After spending over 10 years working for different cruise ships he decided to join the yachting industry for a more personal experience. 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: 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, located on the Pacific Ocean. He has always enjoyed being on the ocean doing watersports and surfing. Santiago truly enjoys the outdoors, going on camping and road trips. His background in commercial vessels has given him an immense amount of knowledge he applies to the yachting industry. Santiago loves to serve others, and his respect for the ocean and being open minded will make your time onboard a special one. WATERS CRUISED: Northern Pacific, Gulf of Mexico, Mediterranean, Adriatic Sea, Ionian Sea, Caribbean. JOB DESCRIPTION: To work with the Rotational Captain along with administrative and safety duties, manage the deck, his team and maintain crew discipline on board. Other duties include boat handling, watch keeping and navigation. The chief officer also has capability to step in for the captain in his absence. LICENSES/CERTIFICATES: Master 3000 GT reg ll/2, Ship Security Officer, PADI Open Water.
INTERESTS: Surfing, Snorkeling, Kayaking, Wakeboarding, Outdoors & Diving

Name: Stephanie Bouillon
Position: Chief Stewardess (rotation)
Nationality: French

PREVIOUS YACHTS: MY AURORA BOREALIS 30m, MY LADY JORGIA 75m, MY BEOL 60m
Originally from the beautiful city of Paris, Stéphanie has been a global explorer from a young age, immersing herself in diverse cultures and embracing new experiences with an open mind. Her passion for hospitality was sparked during her studies while working as a VIP stewardess at prestigious international events in Paris. After earning a master’s degree in communication and marketing, Stéphanie embarked on a solo nine-month journey to New Zealand. During this time, she discovered the world of yachting while working as a nanny for a dynamic ex-yachty family, igniting a passion that has shaped her career over the past five years. Outside of work, Stéphanie enjoys road biking, diving, and exploring unique destinations. One of her most memorable adventures was a sailing expedition in Greenland in 2023. Her love for the ocean, combined with her adventurous spirit, continuously drives her to seek new challenges and experiences. WATERS CRUISED: Florida, Bahamas, Caribbean, Mediterranean. CERTIFICATES: STCW, Food Safety & Hygiene Level II, Wine Level 1 & 2, Purser, Advanced Leadership & Management, Mental Health Awareness, Food Safety & Hygiene Level II, Security Awareness.
INTERESTS: Cycling, Diving, Dancing, Hiking

Name: Zuzanna Kilanowicz
Position: Chief Stewardess
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 her degree in Cosmetology, she embarked on her own journey, relocating to the South of France to launch a business specializing in VIP makeup. This venture led her into the world of elite hospitality. Her growing love for the sea and its wonders, combined with her dedication to caring for others and meticulous attention to detail, made her career transition a natural fit. Zuza is passionate about providing unforgettable service experiences and eagerly looks forward to welcoming new guests onboard. WATERS CRUISED: Mediterranean, Atlantic Crossings, Caribbean including Bahamas, US East Coast mostly Florida. JOB DESCRIPTION: Chief Stewardess is a senior role within the interior department of luxury super yachts. Responsible for overseeing all aspects of guests’ service, interior operations, and the management of the stewardess team. Ensures the highest standards of hospitality, cleanliness and organization are maintained. Her role is critical to delivering a five-star experience for the yacht’s 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: Ben Vieyra
Position: Bosun/Chase boat Captain
Nationality: British

PREVIOUS YACHTS: M/Y Synthesis M/Y Shadow
Ben developed an early interest in the ocean after being introduced to diving by his adventurous father. He has worked in yachting since 2020, bringing his experience from many years as a Professional Dive Instructor. His passion for the oceans led him to study Marine Environmental Management at the University of Plymouth. He obtained his PADI Instructor certification in Utila, Honduras and hasn’t looked back since! Over the years he has built up sea time as a dive & snorkeling guide including adventures with Humpback whales in the Dominican Republic and South Pacific. Ben strives to take great care of all guests onboard Crossed Sabre. He is highly professional, calm and pleasant, and always ready to provide the best watersports experiences, creating an atmosphere of serious fun while maintaining safety. WATERS CRUISED: The Bahamas, Caribbean, Panama, Costa Rica, Galapagos, Pacific coast of Mexico, Sea of Cortez, Canada and Alaska. JOB DESCRIPTION: Assist guests with all water toys and maintain the yacht’s exterior in meticulous order. Extensive knowledge of all equipment. LICENSES & CERTIFICATES: YM Offshore (Commercially Endorsed), PADI Diving Instructor.
INTERESTS: Gym training, calisthenics, watersports, freediving, running.

Name: Ciaran Gordon
Position: Deckhand/Engineer/Dive Master
Nationality: British

PREVIOUS YACHTS: M/Y Global 74M, M/Y Lady M 63M, M/Y Galaxy 54m
Ciaran was born in Cape Town, South Africa. He moved to Perth when he was 15 years old. When Ciaran graduated high school he was gifted a lesson of recreational boat license lessons. This is where he first discovered his love for the ocean. He then pursued his love for travelling and the water and went to Thailand where he completed his divemaster qualification. Ciaran decided he wanted his career to combine his two biggest passions, travel and being in the water and there began his career in yachting. WATERS CRUISED: Mediterranean, Caribbean, South Pacific JOB DESCRIPTION: Responsible for maintaining the yachts exterior in meticulous order and water sports. LICENSES & CERTIFICATES: Yacht Master Offshore, SSI Divemaster, AEC, PB Level 2.
INTERESTS: Drumming, Martial Arts, Keeping Fit, Watersports, Diving.

Name: Loni Risdon
Position: Second Stewardess
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, however a few years ago she decided it was time to swap the cool, rainy Scotland weather for some Palma De Mallorca sunshine! Loni is all about adventure and gaining new life experiences so it was only natural for her to fall into this industry, especially as Palma is such a hotspot for yachts. Since living in Spain she has taught herself Spanish fluently and plans to continue learning new languages. With her polite and bubbly personality, she always builds a good relationship with guests and crew members. WATERS CRUISED: Mediterranean & Indian Ocean JOB DESCRIPTION: Responsible for accommodating guest needs, maintaining the highest standard of the exterior and interior, table presentation, flower arrangements, laundry, housekeeping, service, and bartending.
INTERESTS: Horseback Riding, Photography & Pilates.

Name: Alexandra Penwill
Position: Third Stewardess
Nationality: English

PREVIOUS YACHT: MY PALADIN
Alex grew up in a charming countryside town by the ocean in Plymouth, UK. With a deep yearning for tropical adventures, she took her first solo trip at 18 and has been traveling the world ever since. After graduating with a BA in Fashion Communication & Promotion, Alex moved to London, where she spent four years as Marketing & Brand Manager for a thriving accessories company. Despite her success, Alex realized city life wasn't for her. She made the bold decision to move to Bali, Indonesia, where she spent four transformative years immersed in the beauty of the island. It was in Bali that Alex discovered her passion for yoga, meditation, and holistic healing. Eager for a new chapter, Alex joined the yachting industry in 2022, inspired by the adventurous stories of her two sisters, both stewardesses on superyachts. She leads an active, health-conscious lifestyle, with a commitment to fitness and holistic wellness. Alex brings a warm, peaceful energy that instantly makes guests feel at home. WATERS CRUISED: U.S.A, Bahamas, South Pacific & Mediterranean. CERTIFICATES: STCW, Food Safety & Hygiene Level II, Security Awareness, 200hr Yoga Teacher Training & Breathwork Facilitator Training.
INTERESTS: Yoga, Meditation, Breathwork, Hiking, Cycling, Snorkelling, Photography & Traveling.

Name: Taylor Gibbore
Position: Deckhand
Nationality: American

PREVIOUS YACHTS: All Hooked Up Fishing Charters. Taylor comes from a small town in upstate New York, just outside of Binghamton. From a young age she was heavily involved in athletics starting with basketball and lacrosse, then playing rugby in college. She had an itch to leave her small town so she attended Coastal Carolina University. After graduating with a Bachelor’s in Forensic Psychology, she decided to travel and started to work on the water. Once she saw the sunrise on the water every morning, she knew working on the water brought her life joy and excitement. From being a first mate on a fishing charter to a dockhand for SeaKarts, she was always looks for the next adventure. With her combined passion of being active and love for the outdoors, her decision to become a deckhand came naturally. She has a hardworking mindset and a positive energy that lifts everyone’s spirit around her. When she’s not on the water she will spend her time with friends and family in South Carolina, either fishing or on the beach. JOB DESCRIPTION: Meticulously maintain the yacht’s exterior, perform watch duties and assist with watersports and exterior activities. Go-to fishing expert! LICENSES & CERTIFICATES: STCW, ENG1 & PDSD.
INTERESTS: Rugby, Yoga, Meditation, Reading, Off-Shore Fishing & Cooking.

Name: Jon Lees
Position: Chef (rotation)
Nationality: British

PREVIOUS YACHTS: M/Y Zeus 74m, M/Y Alibi 51m, M/Y Volpini 58m, M/Y Solaia 40m, M/Y Oxygen 42m.
Jonathan was born in Cornwell in the UK. After training as a Chef in Chester in the UK he went on to spend 10 years working in some of the most prestigious Hotels and Restaurants in and around the UK. His love for the mountains and snowboarding led him to work at five-star hotels and Chalets in the French and Italian Alps. Jon soon left land life to further his chef career and has been sailing the seas for the last 12 years. WATERS CRUISED: U.S East and West Coast, Bahamas, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Panama, & Southeast Asia. JOB DESCRIPTION: Menu design, provisioning and food preparation for guests and crew. Food budgeting, stock control, management of galley safety standards, etc. 
LICENSES & CERTIFICATES: City and Guilds Cookery Certificate from West Cheshire College, Food Safety level III.
INTERESTS: Fishing, Snowboarding, Reading, Cycling, Trekking & Exploring Different Cuisines.

Name: Daniel Hoenig
Position: Chef (rotation)
Nationality: Australian

Daniel is a skilled culinary professional from Melbourne, Australia. He was raised in a European family and schooled at the acclaimed International School of Rome, which is where he graduated with his culinary degree. Over the past 20+ years, Daniel has received extensive training and progressive experience from a variety of Head Chefs with various culinary modalities and nationalities. His experience carries through managing provisions, developing custom-made menus, and preparing culinary dishes influenced by culturally diverse regions around the globe. Daniel is recognized for a comprehensive knowledge of international cuisine and an innovative approach to setting the stage for a customized dining experience onboard Crossed Sabre committed to leaving patrons with an especially memorable dining experience.