CREW PROFILE
Captain: Grant Church
Captain Grant Church hails from the scenic coastal town of Wilderness, South Africa, just a few hours from Cape Town. Growing up surrounded by the ocean, Grant developed a passion for water sports at an early age, mastering surfing and wakeboarding with his family's boat. His athleticism extended to land as well, where he excelled in tennis and hockey.
After completing his education in civil engineering at university, Grant's love for the sea led him to pursue a career in marine engineering. At 28, he made the transition to yachting, where his skills and dedication quickly propelled him forward. Grant now holds both Chief Engineer 500GT and Captain 500GT licenses, ensuring that you and your family are in expert hands.
With extensive experience sailing around the world, including several years exploring and diving in the Pacific, Captain Grant is well-versed in the art of navigating both adventure and luxury. Currently, he commands NO MATTER WHAT, offering charters between Nantucket, Florida, and the Bahamas. His commitment to excellence and passion for the ocean promise an unforgettable experience on the water.
Mate: Stefanus (Stefan) Visser
Born in Bloemfontein and raised in Cape Town, Stefan grew up surrounded by the natural beauty of the city's waves and mountains, where he developed a deep love for water sports, often enjoyed from his family’s boat. His passion for creativity led him to London, where he pursued studies in architecture, blending his artistic vision with practical design.
Stefan's connection to the sea deepened as he worked as a crew member on sailboat charters in Cape Town, honing his maritime skills. His global journey extended beyond the ocean, serving as an experiential education leader on projects ranging from community development to outdoor adventures. His work even included conservation efforts with elephants in Southeast Asia.
Stefan's diverse experiences, both on land and at sea, equip him with the ability to provide exceptional service and unforgettable adventures for his guests on NO MATTER WHAT. His unique background ensures that every moment spent with him onboard is enriched by his broad expertise and passion for exploration.
Mate: Aya Gericke (Rotational)
Aya hails from Wilderness, a small coastal town in South Africa, where the ocean has always been a central part of his life. Growing up, he spent countless hours fishing and surfing, which sparked a lifelong passion for the sea and a deep connection to nature. These experiences shaped his adventurous spirit and instilled qualities of patience, resilience, and adaptability.
As a dedicated waterman, Aya thrives on the energy of the ocean and enjoys sharing his love for the water with others. He’s always eager to embrace new challenges and continue exploring the many ways the sea inspires him.
Stewardess: Sarah Lucas
Born in South Africa and raised in England, Sarah Lucas brings a warm, friendly, and adventurous spirit to her role as Stewardess on NO MATTER WHAT. With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Sarah has excelled in various roles, including restaurant management, culinary preparation and service, bartending, cocktail mixology, and creating themed entertainment events.
In 2022, Sarah relocated to Florida to embark on a new chapter in the yachting industry. She began her journey as a Stewardess on a motor yacht in the Caribbean, quickly discovering her passion for providing exceptional service. After two successful seasons catering to both private and charter guests in the Caribbean and the northeastern U.S., Sarah has honed her skills in delivering unforgettable experiences.
As the Stewardess on NO MATTER WHAT, Sarah is committed to making your experience truly unforgettable. With her attention to detail and passion for service, she ensures that every aspect of your time on board is thoughtfully curated. Sarah looks forward to welcoming you aboard and helping create memories that will last a lifetime.
Chef: Jessica Ambrose
Jessica’s culinary journey began in South Africa, where the vibrant flavors and rich culture inspired her love for cooking. After more than a decade at sea, she has become a sought-after chef in the yachting industry, known for her ability to blend taste with wellness and creativity.
Her diverse life experiences deeply shape her approach to food. After studying yoga in India, she adopted a holistic lifestyle that naturally flows into her cooking philosophy. For Jessica, food is not only about flavor but also about nourishment, balance, and elevating the spirit.
Her degree in fashion and design adds another dimension to her culinary artistry, as she places great care into the presentation of each dish, ensuring that meals are not just delicious but visually stunning. Jessica offers guests aboard NO MATTER WHAT a dining experience that is as nourishing for the body as it is for the eyes and the soul.
Chef: Zachary (Zach) Seals (Rotational)
Born and raised in Chicago with vibrant Puerto Rican roots, Chef Zach brings a unique Latin flair to his culinary creations. From a young age, he was captivated by the art of cooking, inspired by watching his mother and grandmother expertly blend flavors in the kitchen. This early passion led him to Washburne Culinary School, where he honed his craft while gaining hands-on experience in high-volume restaurants.
With over 15 years of experience, Chef Zach has mastered the art of selecting ingredients that, when combined, create a symphony of savory flavors that dance on the palate. He takes pride in crafting healthy, delicious, and beautifully plated dishes that not only satisfy but create unforgettable dining experiences.
As the Chef on NO MATTER WHAT, Zach’s culinary artistry transforms each meal into a memorable event, ensuring that every bite is a celebration of flavor. After all, as one taste bud might say to another, “Let’s have a savory affair!”
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