CAPTAIN
JARRYD VERMAAK
Captain Jarryd was born in South Africa. He grew up in Durban and studied Marketing and advertising while working for a successful restaurant/cocktail bar opening new franchises around the country. Jarryd entered the yachting world in 2009 as deckhand onboard a 188’ Feadship. He has since crossed the Atlantic 5 times and cruised the Mediterranean, Caribbean, US East coast and the Gulf of Mexico. His hard work, attention to detail and ever-growing knowledge, along with strong communication and entrepreneurial skills paved his path up to Captain of busy private and charter programs. Jarryd first joined LADY J in 2015. His longevity and ample charter experience have allowed him to hone the skills necessary to provide a five-star experience to all guests. His lively, joyous personality ensures his guests are happy and relaxed while enjoying a memorable charter experience. During his free time, Jarryd enjoys diving, water sports, traveling, and reading.
FIRST OFFICER
PAUL SHELTON
Paul was born in Durban, South Africa and grew up surfing on the beach front. In 2009 he moved to London and worked on the London Underground as an electrician’s mate before moving to the Mediterranean to begin his yachting career. Paul started working on classic sailing yachts and spent five years on a 109-year-old classic schooner. While onboard, Paul took part in over twenty classic sailing regattas in the Mediterranean and Caribbean. Since then, he has worked on both sailing and motor yachts and climbed his way up from deckhand to first officer. Paul has spent most of his yachting career in the Mediterranean but his desire to have some time in America, led him to Lady J. During his free time, he enjoys playing rugby, surfing and more recently took up learning to play golf.
CHIEF ENGINEER (rotation)
MATTHEW STALLARD
Matt hails from Winchester, Virginia, nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains. Growing up, he developed a passion for the water through sailing in the Chesapeake Bay and sport fishing along the Outer Banks of North Carolina.After earning a degree in economics from the College of Charleston, South Carolina, Matt decided to combine his analytical skills with his love for the ocean, embarking on a career at sea. With 15 years of experience aboard yachts, Matt has honed his expertise in marine engineering, ensuring Lady J operates smoothly and efficiently. When not turning wrenches, Matt enjoys being in the mountains hiking and camping, or being on the water paddling and fishing.
CHIEF ENGINEER (rotation)
ERICK MORENO
Erick was born in Mexico and raised in Beaverton, Oregon. A graduate of the Merchant Marine Academy, he discovered his passion for engineering and the ocean early in his career. With six years of experience aboard various vessels, Erick has honed his skills as a responsible and detail-oriented engineer. He takes pride in maintaining a clean and organized engine room, ensuring Lady J operates smoothly and safely. Erick finds great satisfaction in running his systems efficiently and resolving challenges with precision and care. A dedicated team player, Erick values learning from his fellow crew members and contributing to a positive dynamic onboard Lady J. Off duty, Erick enjoys relaxing with friends and family, especially while watching soccer matches. He also cherishes quiet moments at home with his loved ones and his dogs.
CHEF
LUIS “RAFFIE” HURTADO
Chef Luis Rafael “Raffie” Hurtado is celebrated for his innovative fusion cuisine, blending traditional American flavors with contemporary techniques to create dishes that tell a story and honor his Latin American heritage. Known for crafting personalized culinary experiences, he customizes menus to suit each client’s preferences and dietary needs, ensuring every meal is unique and memorable. With meticulous attention to detail, Chef Raffie prioritizes the freshest ingredients and flawless presentation, elevating every dining experience. Beyond the kitchen, he is a passionate teacher, mentoring aspiring chefs and sharing his expertise through interactive cooking classes.Committed to sustainability, he emphasizes locally sourced, organic ingredients and eco-friendly practices. Chef Raffie’s creativity, dedication, and love for his craft make him a standout in the culinary world, providing Lady J’s guests with experiences that are as exceptional as they are unforgettable.
CHIEF STEWARDESS
ESPERANZA CABADA
Esperanza was born and raised in Venezuela. Shortly after finishing her BA in Tourism, she moved to London to improve her English and start her career in hospitality at the Grand Hotel St Pancras Renaissance where she became part of the banquette and conference team From London, Essie went to Barcelona’s Hotel Artz to keep learning and growing. Seeking new challenges Essie spent five years in Germany, absorbing the German culture, language and efficient, fast and professional work ethic. In 2016, eager to take her passion for service to a warmer spot, Essie found sunny St Maarten to be the perfect place for her. She has been cruising on sail and motoryachts ever since and is excited to be a part of the Lady J crew.
SECOND STEWARDESS
SOPHIA KAZADI
Born in Boise, Idaho, Sophie left to see what the world had to offer at a young age. After graduating from college, she embarked on a solo trip to Australia, and then lived in the Netherlands for a short period of time before joining yachting. She enjoys trying new things, experiencing new cuisine, and making great friends along the way. She is a bubbly, outgoing girl who is always ready to lend a helping hand. Sophie enjoys all things about the water, with a long background in competitive swimming. She loves to relax on secluded beaches with a book and some good music. She has a silly and sassy sense of humour and can always be counted on for a laugh or a specialty cocktail that will enhance your taste buds.
THIRD STEWARDESS
CARMEN SEEN
Carmen is from Roodepoort, a lively town near Johannesburg, South Africa. With a passion for travel and connecting with people, she thrives on adventure and personal growth. At 20, her love for children inspired her to work as an au pair in the United States, gaining valuable cultural and life experiences. After completing a course in Business Management, Carmen pursued her dream of a yachting career. She drove 18 hours to the coast, where she earned her yachting certifications and began her journey in the industry. During her free time, Carmen enjoys being outdoors, exploring nature, or relaxing with a good book. Known for her warm personality and enthusiasm, she brings dedication and positive energy to her role aboard Lady J.
BOSUN
TYLER FRANKS
Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Tyler grew up playing on his high school basketball and golf teams. Tyler then moved to Knoxville where he attended the University of Tennessee and studied Marketing. While in college, Tyler—an entrepreneur at heart—started up his own valet company which became and continues to be very successful. Throughout his life, Tyler has enjoyed boating on lakes all through Tennessee fostering his love for the water. His adventurous personality and his passion for exploring led him to pursue boating career which brought him down to Fort Lauderdale, and eventually onboard Lady J. During his spare time Tyler enjoys playing golf, basketball, fishing, and spikeball on the beach.
DECKHAND
CAREL DE BEER
Born in Cape Town, South Africa Carel grew up enjoying the outdoors and playing rugby. From a young age he loved being near the ocean and launched his yachting career early on in his youth. His curious and adventurous spirit led him to explore countries worldwide, and once in the United States he discovered the yachting industry and quickly began working and traveling throughout the Bahamas. During his spare time, Carel enjoys playing golf, fishing, diving, swimming and being active in the gym. He looks forward to helping charter guests onboard Lady J have a wonderful time onboard.
