MIRAGE Luxury Super Yacht for Charter

Colin was born in the UK and grew up in South Africa. Colin sailed professionally for ten years until 1998, and then spent the next 7 years running various sailing boats in South East Asia. Colin’s next command was on a Perini-Navi in 2005, followed by Captain on M/Y PASSION for 7 years. Colin is a PADI Divemaster and holds his MCA 3000 ton Captain’s license. He is a RYA Jet Ski and Level II Powerboat Instructor and as a result, M/Y MIRAGE can issue jet ski licenses for the duration of a trip. As Captain of M/Y MIRAGE, Colin combines his extensive experience and qualifications to guarantee a fun-filled vacation with a well-developed sense of safety and security. Colin is always upbeat and great fun to be around and ensures that his crew all maintain the same positive attitude that he does. He places strong emphasis on planning, organization and training to ensure impeccable vessel preparation and presentation. Colin handpicks professional and motivated crew to cater for your every need. Colin joined M/Y MIRAGE in 2012.

Steve was born in Germany and grew up in South Africa. Steve is an accomplished yachtsman, completing his first trans-Atlantic crossing as skipper on his parent’s catamaran aged just 23. This experience ignited a passion to embark on a yachting career and 25 years on, Steve continues to be inspired by the many different aspects of yachting. In 1996 Steve became 2nd Officer on M/Y LADY MOURA, at the time one of the largest yachts in the world, and was promoted to 1st Officer in 2002. As rotational Captain of M/Y MIRAGE, Steve uses his wealth of experience and passion for his job to ensure you have the best possible time onboard. Steve leads by example and he and his crew always give 110%. He is brilliantly personable and is always on hand to give advice on itineraries/ anchorages/ excursions etc. Steve works diligently to plan and carry out your perfect trip. Steve is a huge rock music fan and attends many concerts when he’s on land. He also likes to spend as much time as possible with his wife and two boys. Steve joined M/Y MIRAGE in 2013.

Mark was born in the UK and moved to Mallorca in 2008. Mark served a five-year Marine Engineering Apprenticeship immediately after finishing school. His passion for boats took him onto Flotilla Yachts where he worked for 3 years before joining the superyacht industry. Mark has been a Chief Engineer for 17 years and has worked all over the world. Mark is an excellent troubleshooter and is always on hand to aid with any technical questions you may have. He has extensive knowledge of M/Y MIRAGE and is very happy to share information with interested parties. When not working, he enjoys hiking and fishing on his self-built boat. Mark joined M/Y MIRAGE in 2013.

Born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa, Andy has always had a passion for the sea and an outdoor lifestyle. His investigative and inquiring mind steered him to qualify in IT Engineering in 2010. Over the next 3 years, Andy gained extensive experience within the IT field working as a Technical Manager before pursuing a yachting career in 2014. Yachting has taken Andy to various places around the world, including the Caribbean and USA, where he was fortunate enough to expand his marine engineering knowledge as 2nd Engineer on various private and charter yachts. Andy is always ready to assist with all your IT needs, ensuring your experience on board is as smooth as possible. In addition, he is always willing to help when guests go diving, having gained his Dive Master certification in 2014. Andy joined M/Y Mirage in July 2016.

Nationality: American | Languages: English Ben was born and raised in New Jersey. He was first introduced to boating by his father at a young age. Ben has worked in the yachting industry for over 10 years and his previous vessels include M/Y Highlander, M/Y Passion and most recently M/Y Trafalgar where he was the captain. Ben holds his MCA Chief Mate 3000 Ton License and is an advanced PADI Diver. An active outdoorsman, Ben enjoys wakeboarding, snowboarding, camping, rock climbing and white water rafting. When not onboard Ben loves to spend time with his wife and sons. Ben joined M/Y Mirage in 2015

Nationality: Australian | Languages: English Chris was born and raised near the Gold Coast, Australia and from a very young age the ocean played a large role in his life. After finishing his schooling, he headed into the construction industry where he gained a lot of practical skills. However, his love for the ocean combined with his outdoor personality led him into the yachting industry in 2014. Chris travelled to Europe to commence his yachting career which involved extensive Mediterranean cruising on M/Y Enigma. He then obtained his RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Qualification in 2017 and was employed as Lead Deckhand/First Mate on 40m M/Y Vegas in Australia last year. Chris’ knowledge of the yachting industry combined with his responsible nature ensures all your activities are enjoyed in a safe and meticulous fashion during your stay onboard. He is always at hand to assist with any queries or questions you may have. When not onboard Chris enjoys taking time out to travel back to Australia to spend time with his 9-year-old daughter. Chris is a keen skateboarder and enjoys keeping active. Chris joined M/Y Mirage in 2018

Nationality: British | Languages: English Matt was raised in Leeds in Northern England, but spent much of his youth on the south coast of Scotland, where his love for the water first began. After completing his degree in Sports Coaching and Psychology, Matt chose to do his RYA Sailing Instructor qualifications in Vassiliki, Greece. He went on to teach sailing, windsurfing and a whole host of other water sports all over the world, from Australia to Borneo over a 4 year period. In 2016 he jumped ship to the super yacht industry and has recently completed his Yachtmaster Offshore and RYA Jet Ski Instructor certificates to further his skills. Matt is always at hand to take you out on the lasers and to pass on his sailing knowledge and water sport skills. Matt is a massive sports fan with a particular love for rugby, football and just about any other sport in which he can partake. A friendly and outgoing individual, Matt will always try and put a smile on your face. Matt joined M/Y Mirage in 2018.

Nationality: British | Languages: Craig grew up beside the seaside in a small town called North Berwick, located in East Lothian, Scotland and started cooking at a very early age. Working alongside his father in the kitchen sparked his passion for the culinary arts and so he pursued that calling as his professional path. After graduating from culinary college, he spent the following six years cooking at Gleneagles before working at various high-end establishments all over Scotland. Craig made the move to the yachting industry 11 years ago when he joined MY Coral Island, progressing through the ranks he became the Personal Chef of the Principal. Craig’s extensive culinary talent has led him to travel all around the world, cooking for many high-profile guests and specialising in global food cuisine. Prior to joining MY Mirage, Craig spent nearly four years as the Personal Chef to a World Number One Tennis Sportsman, traveling with the family and feeding the team year-round. There was a predominant focus on keeping up to date with the latest nutrition-culinary science and ensuring a healthy and balanced diet was delivered at all times. When not working, Craig enjoys mountain biking, skiing, golf, and dinghy sailing. He is also passionately interested in food husbandry and regenerative agriculture.

Nationality: British | Languages: English Daniel brings over 26 years’ experience to the role of Head Chef on Mirage. His career started under the guidance of Scottish Chef Nick Nairn where at the age of 19 he became the youngest Head Chef of a Michelin starred restaurant in Scotland. Since then he has worked in a number of high-profile roles including Group executive Chef for Compass group, Private Chef to Peter Newton of Newton vineyard in Napa Valley CA, Head Chef on the Orient Express Royal Scotsman Luxury Train. His last land-based role was based in Glasgow where he was Executive Head Chef of the 5 Star Blythswood Square Hotel. In between these positions Daniel has also lived and worked throughout South America, Japan and Spain. Eight years ago, Daniel transition across into the super yachting industry and has work on a variety of prestige yachts including Maltese Falcon, Mary Jean II, Tango and Entourage. Daniel is passionate about personalising your dining experience onboard using his vast practical experience and knowledge of cuisines from around the world. When not onboard he can be found at home in Athens,Greece where he lives with his wife, 2 young daughters and his 2 dogs.

Megan was born in the UK and lived there until 2013 after graduating from the University of Manchester with a degree in Geography. Megan always knew that she wanted to embark on a career in yachting and started in October 2013 where she quickly climbed through the ranks. Megan leads her fantastic team of five interior staff to ensure all of your needs are met, be it sundowner cocktails, booking restaurants or a 'pirate themed' lunch. Megan has gained extensive experience as a stewardess over the years and works meticulously to ensure all of your needs are catered for. Megan’s personable and attentive nature ensures unforgettable memories are made throughout your trip. Megan is passionate about sport and excels in many. She has represented both her country in rounders as captain, and her county as captain of the hockey team. When not onboard, Megan likes to travel and has been fortunate enough to explore a variety of countries. Megan joined M/Y MIRAGE in April 2014.

Nationality: British | Languages: Jess was born and raised in Shropshire, England. She has been working in the luxury hospitality industry for over 10 years after discovering yachting at 18 years old. Jess joined her first boat M/Y Passion in 2008 as a junior stew and left 6 years later as a chief stewardess. In her time in the industry Jess has travelled all around the Mediterranean, Caribbean and America. She also spent 6 months in the Netherlands where she managed the interior aspect of the build and launching of a brand-new 50m yacht. At the end of 2016 she decided to jump ship to work ashore to manage a 5* lodge in Kenya and has since worked at several lodges around South Africa. Jess is passionate about delivering high-end service and will ensure that your every need onboard is tended to in order to create an unforgettable trip. Jess’ interests include further her studies in wine and she is currently in the process of her WSET Level 4 wine diploma. In her spare time, she enjoys camping and hiking and loves to spend her time in game reserves throughout Africa. Jess joined M/Y Mirage in 2019.

Nationality: British & Portuguese | Languages: English, Portuguese & Spanish Joao was born in London and raised in Portugal. Before joining the yachting industry in June 2014, Joao worked in high-end restaurants in Algarve, London and the French Alps. With over 10 years experience as a chef, his love for travel and exploring new cultures ensures Joao keeps up to date with all the latest food trends. Joao is very knowledgeable and passionate about nutrition and the important role it plays in keeping a well-fuelled and healthy crew. Vegan cuisine, quality and variety are at the heart of Joao’s cooking and are evident in all the marvelous dishes he prepares. When not in the galley, Joao divides his free time between travelling to new places and returning home to stay close to his roots. Joao maintains an active lifestyle and more recently has adventured into the world of gin distilling, using only local ingredients promoting his Algarve heritage. In his time off, Jack is a keen diver. Jack joined M/Y Mirage in 2018

Nationality: British | Languages: English Born in Glasgow, raised in Cornwall, settled in Sussex. If Gary had to choose between city, country or by the water, he would certainly be by the latter, because for him, nothing quite compares to open water. After finishing school, Gary began a four year apprenticeship in electrical engineering, which proved to be a great opportunity for gaining valuable experience, a hunger for problem-solving and a determination to help others – skills that provided a smooth transition into yachting in 2017. As of the moment, Gary’s yachting career has predominantly taken place in the Mediterranean sea, but he was fortunate enough to spend an exciting winter season between South Korea and Japan. Gary has a strong passion for sports, whether football, rugby, NFL, Cross-fit or Formula 1, whenever possible, you will either find him playing, reading about it or watching them in his spare time. Gary joined M/Y Mirage in 2020.

Nationality: Croatian | Languages: Croatian & English Nina was born in Ogulin, a small town in Croatia - more commonly known as the city of sport! Naturally this sparked Nina's passion for sport, starting with gymnastics. Growing up with boys presented the camaraderie that ensues with team sports that lead to Nina's love for handball, which she played for 17 years - 5 years at a semi-professional level. Nina has spent the last 7 years working at a seasonal resort at which she was a sport and PR entertainer. As well as instructing a vast array of sports to the guests of the resort, Nina also instructed personal and group training, aqua aerobics, latino fit workouts, nordic and power walking, group as well as 1-on-1 pilates sessions. Nina believes that Pilates is enriching for mental and physical health and expresses this in every session conducted. Although Nina majored in Landscape Architecture she is also a certified wellness therapist, her love for pilates has grown each day over the last ten years. This has encouraged Nina to complete a diploma at the Fitness University of Rijeka in Croatia where she was one of the first to obtain a diploma as a pilates instructor. It goes without saying Nina's main passion is any sport, but when she’s not out training Nina enjoys photography, exterior design and has an aptitude for learning new languages. Nina joined M/Y Mirage in 2017.

Nationality: British | Languages: English Elle was born in Essex, England and went on to university in Southampton to study International Business Management. Whilst completing her degree Elle worked in various hospitality roles, always priding herself on her dedication for providing the best possible service. After graduation Elle decided to follow her true love of beauty therapy and completed her Level 2 & 3 Diploma in Beauty Therapy. Working in high end spas in Hampshire and subsequently running her own beauty business in the New Forest. This year she decided to combine her love of the outdoors with her passion for beauty therapy and joined the yachting industry. Although new to the industry Elle is at hand to tailor her beauty therapy skills to your needs and is excited about the coming season on Mirage. Elle is a true believer in the importance of incorporating massage regularly into your daily routine. Elle is highly trained in all styles of massage including Swedish, deep tissue, Indian head, and lymphatic drainage, in addition to other beauty treatments. When not on board Elle enjoys exploring new destinations, paddle boarding and learning about new cultures. Elle joined Mirage in 2019.

Nationality: Bulgarian | Languages: Bulgarian, English, Spanish & Russian Milly was born and raised in Ruse, Bulgaria - a small town also known as "The Little Vienna", best known for its beautiful and rich architectural heritage. After graduating with MA in Architecture, she worked for two years in Mallorca’s biggest Architectural studio. Working within an international team of professionals, she is highly organised, friendly and always willing to assist. Milly specialised in the development and interior design of high-end residential and hospitality projects. This naturally sparked her passion for exploring other aspects of the high-end industry. Milly’s strongest passions are arts, design and foreign cultures. Milly joined M/Y Mirage in 2018.

Nationality: South African | Languages: English Nico was born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa. After finishing school he gained practical skills in the electrical and refrigeration industries before pursuing a career as an operations manager in the medical consumables and pharmaceuticals industry. Living on the infamous "Kitebeach" in Bloubergstrand led Nico to find his passion for big air kitesurfing and during his years in the corporate world found a love for teaching others to kitesurf. In 2018 Nico became an IKO kitesurf instructor and decided to follow his love for kitesurfing and begin his super yacht career in Florida. Nico loves being active and will ride any and every board he can get his hands on. Always friendly and eager to ensure there are smiles all around Nico is at hand to assist you with any water sport activities you may wish to try out during your time onboard. Nico joined M/Y Mirage in 2019.

Nationality: South African | Languages: English, Afrikaans Megan was born and raised in Pretoria, South Africa. With a talent for art and a creative mind, she acquired a degree in Graphic Design from The University of Pretoria. Megan gained further diplomas in both Web Design and Digital Marketing from the University of Cape Town. Her life plan to work in the design industry changed when she discovered Pilates and yoga and transition into a career that would allow her to share the art of movement rather than the art of branding. Megan is a qualified BASI Pilates Instructor as well as a 200Hr Yoga Instructor. She is passionate about teaching and making a positive change in people’s lives. She firmly believes in quality exercise and offers specialised training to each individual that will leave you feeling realigned and ready to take on the day. Her passion extends off the mat as well, she enjoys being outdoors, hiking, exploring new places, reading, arts and photography. Megan joined M/Y Mirage in 2020

Nationality: British | Languages: English Holly grew up on Hayling Island, a small but beautiful island off the South coast of England. Having lived by the water all her life, Holly developed a strong passion for the outdoors and watersports. Naturally, this became the main motive for her to later become a qualified dinghy and windsurf instructor. With a broad palette of interests and hobbies Holly earned a place at University to study Psychology. However, Holly decided instead to pursue her love for the ocean and begin a career on the water. Prior to joining the yachting industry, Holly worked in the hospitality sector. This has further broadened her service skill set and inspired her to combine this knowledge with her love for watersports and active living, transitioning into yachting in 2019. Holly has hands-on experience in both the interior and deck departments and is at hand to assist you with any watersports needs you may have. In her spare time, Holly enjoys traveling, while maintaining a fit and active lifestyle, as well as having a keen interest in photography. Holly joined M/Y Mirage in 2020.