SERENITY Yacht Charter

Captain: David Laird

David Laird
Position details: Captain
Nationality: American
Languages: Spanish, English
Description:
A 9th-generation Texan born and raised in Clear Lake on the Gulf Coast, I grew up fishing, sailing, and developing a deep love for the water. After earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a focus in Management and Accounting from Sam Houston State University, I spent five years in corporate accounting in the oil and gas industry before making the life-changing decision to pursue a career at sea—my true passion. I cashed in my 401K, moved to South Florida, and never looked back. I earned my Captain’s License and became a certified NAUI and PADI Dive Instructor, training in the Florida Keys. In 1999, I landed my first job on a yacht as a deckhand in the Caribbean, and soon after joined my first charter vessel—a path I’ve followed ever since with enthusiasm and purpose.
I’ve always loved the dynamic, guest-focused nature of chartering. I believe that a well-designed yacht with a thoughtful layout makes all the difference in delivering exceptional experiences. For me, it’s about showing up, doing my best, and letting go—because everything works out in the end.
Bilingual in English and Spanish, I’m a diplomatic, hardworking, and honest mariner who brings a calm presence and a hands-on approach to every crew. When I’m not on the water, I enjoy surfing, hiking, golf, shooting sports, reading, and yoga—but my most important role by far is being a proud father to my 9-year-old son.
Previous Yachts: 50m BIG SKY, 60m LIBERTY, 41m KASMIR

Thomas Hassler
Position details: First Officer
Nationality: American
Languages: English, Italian
Description:
Tomi graduated from Clemson University with a B.S. in Business Management and a minor in Political Science, later earning an associate’s degree in culinary arts from Escoffier in Austin, Texas. With a passion for boating and a lifelong love for the water, I transitioned into yachting seven years ago and have since built a career that combines technical skills, travel, and adventure.
He holds a Yachtmaster Offshore (commercially endorsed), STCW with PDSD, and is an Advanced Diver. Tomi grew up driving boats on lakes and the ocean and naturally found his way into the maritime world. He's worked extensively on private, and charter yachts and takes pride in being an efficient, dependable, and approachable Mate with an eye for detail and a great sense of humor. He's also fluent in English and currently learning Italian.
With a background in culinary arts, he's comfortable stepping in to support guest service or provisioning when needed. He thrives in active, team-oriented environments and enjoys wakeboarding, surfing, diving, hiking, and staying fit.
One core lesson he's learned through experience, including a storm evacuation during a crossing, is that safety always comes first. If something doesn’t feel right at sea, speak up. No schedule is worth risking a life.
Working with an amazing crew and a kind owner, Tomi is grateful to contribute to safe, smooth, and memorable charters on a fantastic itinerary.
Previous Yachts: 109m BRAVO EUGENIA, 53m SAPPHIRE, 53m NORTHERN SUN

Matthew Dehrmann
Position: Engineer
Nationality: American
Languages: Spanish, Afrikaans, English
Description:
Born in South Africa and raised in California, Matt brings a unique global perspective and a calm, confident presence to SERENITY. After earning a degree from the University of Arizona, he was introduced to yachting by his sister and brother-in-law—veteran crew members who encouraged him to explore the field. Within weeks, he completed his STCW in Florida and began his journey through daywork and short-term contracts. He has now been working in yachting for two years.
He holds AEC 1 & 2, speaks fluent English, with basic Afrikaans and Spanish, and is known for his strong crew mentality, adaptability, and technical curiosity. Whether assisting on deck, helping in the interior, or getting hands-on with mechanical tasks, he brings an empathetic and reliable work ethic.
Outside of yachting, he enjoys diving, fixing cars and bikes, going to the gym, chess, and learning through books and history podcasts.

Laikin Dooley
Position: Chief steward/ess
Nationality: American
Languages: English
Description:
Laikin Dooley is a dedicated and enthusiastic crew member with a diverse
range of interests and skills. With a deep love for sports and anything water-related, Laikin is an avid swimmer and snorkeler who thrives on adventure and exploring new places. Traveling is a true passion, and spending quality time with family and friends is cherished.
Laikin’s professional qualifications include STCW certification and a PADI Dive certification, showcasing a strong commitment to safety and expertise in the marine environment.
Additionally, Laikin is a skilled bartender, ready to craft delightful beverages, and a talented soccer player with a competitive spirit. What Laikin loves most about the yachting industry is the excitement of never knowing what each day will bring. Interacting with guests and ensuring their trip is the most memorable experience possible is a top priority. Laikin’s warm personality and dedication to exceptional service make every voyage special.

Samuel Dux
Position: Chef
Nationality: American
Languages: English
Description:
Sam Dux’s culinary journey began nearly two decades ago, driven by a deep fascination with food and hospitality that guided him into the world of fine dining. Over the course of ten years, his unwavering dedication led him to collaborate with esteemed chefs in various cities, honing his craft in renowned kitchens, including those of James Beard Award-winning establishments and prestigious hotels.
After graduating from culinary school, Sam focused on cultivating a unique culinary identity and mastering the art of restaurant development. He excelled in both upscale dining environments and bustling, scratch based eateries, tackling each challenge with creativity and passion.
In 2020, as the pandemic transformed the culinary landscape, Sam embraced the opportunity to fulfill a long-held ambition: earning his captain’s license and transitioning into the yachting industry. Over the next two years, he embarked on a personal odyssey, experiencing significant growth and achievement. Today, Sam brings his wealth of experience to Serenity as the Director of Culinary. His diverse expertise, shaped by years of dedication and exploration, spans all aspects of the culinary arts. With an eagerness to continue learning and growing, Sam looks forward to collaborating with Serenity’s exceptional crew to create unforgettable dining experiences.

Alysa Lamountain
Position: Second Stewardess
Nationality: American
Languages: English
Description:
Alysa received her Bachelor of Science at the University of Rhode Island and studied a semester abroad at James Cook University in Australia. Her semester overseas sparked a passion for traveling and she went on to backpack through Europe the summer before college graduation. After graduation, she spent two years working as a medical assistant at an urgent care. Although she really liked the job, she decided that she wanted a career path that allowed me to travel. After she discovered yachting in 2017, she realized she'd found her dream job.
Her favorite yachting experience was during an Atlantic Crossing, when you’re in the middle of the ocean, when everything is quiet, and all you can see is a sky full of stars.
Some of her hobbies and interests are reading, fitness, and Taylor Swift! I look forward to having you onboard, beautiful Motoryacht Serenity!

Thomas Jay “TJ” Osborne
Position: Bosun
Nationality: American
Languages: English
Description:
Thomas grew up in central New Jersey as the oldest of five children. He excelled both academically and athletically throughout his school years. After graduating from high school, he began working as a union employee in New York City. He trained part-time as an engineer while also serving as a doorman at a high-end luxury apartment building—an experience that laid the foundation for his unique blend of hospitality and professional maintenance skills.
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Thomas made the decision to relocate to Florida. Having lost his job in prop-making in Los Angeles, he chose to move closer to friends and family.
A lifelong water enthusiast, the shift into yachting came naturally. The industry combined all the elements he loves—hospitality, adventure, teamwork, and the chance to visit stunning destinations while meeting fascinating people along the way.
One of Thomas’s most memorable experiences was sailing across the Atlantic aboard S/Y Bliss. It was his first major ocean crossing and a deeply formative journey. During the 18 unforgettable days at sea, he rediscovered the joy of reading, created an underway crew workout program to keep everyone healthy (weather permitting), and embraced the simplicity of life on the open water—fishing for the crew and finding moments of quiet reflection.
Currently, Thomas is passionate about surfing, golfing, exercising, and reading. He looks forward to meeting new people and bringing his energy, skills, and enthusiasm to every opportunity that comes his way.