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Our Team

Unsurpassed levels of service and cuisine.

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Aboard MIRAGE, charter guests can relax and enjoy the superyacht experience knowing they are in safe, experienced hands. With more than a 1:1 crew to guest ratio, her expert team of 15 provide unsurpassed levels of service and cuisine, ensuring the varying requirements of any group are not only met but exceeded. From celebrating special occasions to trying out her array of watertoys, a crew member is always on hand throughout your stay on board. 

Colin Richardson

Captain

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Steve Emmerich

Captain

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Daniel Hall
Head Chef
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Elouise Daniel
Head Chef
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Mark Bevis

Chief Engineer

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Andy Ingle
Chief engineer
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Nikolina Brozovic
Chief Stewardess
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Josefin Liefke

Chief Stewardess
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Ben Dickerson

Chief officer

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Nico Scheepers

Chief Officer

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Bianca Verster

SECOND STEWARDESS

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Geromine Decuq 

Sous Chef

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Lutho Thomas

BOSUN 

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Kieran Elliott

ETO / Second Engineer
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Addison King 

ETO / SECOND ENGINEER

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Piper Jackson 

STEWARDESS / Fitness instructor

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Colin Richardson

Captain

Nationality: British
Languages: English/ Afrikaans

Colin was born in the UK although he spent his childhood growing up in South Africa. He spent 10 years sailing professionally until 1997 and then spent the next 7 years running various sailing boats in South East Asia.

Colin has over 30 years of experience in the maritime industry and has cruised extensively all over the world. He was in command of a Perini-Navi in 2005 and then went on to Captaining M/Y PASSION for 7 years.

Among his numerous qualifications, he holds a PADI Divemaster, MCA 3000 Tonne Captain’s license as well as a RYA Jet Ski and Level II Powerboat Instructor. As a result,  MIRAGE can issue jet ski licenses for the duration of your trip.

Colin combines his extensive experience and qualifications to guarantee a fun-filled, memorable vacation.  He is always cheerful and great fun to be around and ensures that his crew all maintain the same positivity and professionalism that he does. He places a strong emphasis on planning, organisation and training to ensure impeccable vessel preparation and presentation. Colin handpicks highly qualified and motivated crew to cater to your every need.

When on land he lives in Warsash, UK with his wife and two children.

Colin joined M/Y Mirage in 2012.

Steve Emmerich

Captain

Nationality: German

Languages: English, German, Spanish

Steve was born in Germany and grew up in South Africa. Steve is an accomplished yachtsman whose growing passion for sailing sparked at the age of 23, when he completed his first trans-Atlantic crossing as skipper on his parent’s catamaran. This experience ignited a desire to embark on a yachting career and over 30 years on, Steve continues to be inspired by the many different aspects of the maritime industry. 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 Captain of M/Y Mirage, Steve uses his broad experience and passion for his job to ensure you have a great time on-board. Steve leads by example and he and his crew always give their very best to not only meet but exceed your needs and expectations. He is brilliantly personable and is always delighted to share recommendations and advice on itineraries, anchorages, excursions and activities. 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 wonderful boys. Steve joined Mirage in 2014

Daniel Hall

Head Chef

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 transitioned across into the superyacht industry and has worked on a variety of prestigious 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 with his family in Athens, Greece.

Daniel joined M/Y Mirage in 2019.

Elouise Daniel

Head Chef

Nationality: British 
Languages: English

Elouise was born in Bath in the UK, a beautiful city named after its Roman built baths. Elouise started her career working under a Michelin star chef at a high end seafood restaurant. Here she gained a lot  of enthusiasm for chef work which led her to work at other various top restaurants,  as well as working as a private chef.

 Her love of travel led her to a ski season in Verbier working as a sole chef in a luxury ski chalet. She naturally transitioned to the yachting industry after this.

Elouise focuses on Mediterranean cuisine, but she adores a wide variety of cuisines holding authentic ingredients, flavors and cooking processes paramount. She also sources inspiration from her interest in nutrition, fermentation, preserving and plant based cooking techniques. 

In her free time, Elouise enjoys hiking, reading, music and wild swimming.

Mark Bevis

Chief Engineer

Nationality: British
Languages: English, Spanish

Mark grew up in Warsash, UK– a beautiful town located on the famous Solent Waters, which naturally sparked his passion for boats.

Immediately after graduating from school, Mark enthusiastically began his five-year Marine Engineering Apprenticeship which later led him to a successful career in the yachting industry.

Mark has been a Chief Engineer for over 21 years and has worked all over the world. Some of Mark’s best qualities include great trouble-shooting skills, a willingness to always help others and offer extensive knowledge of M/Y Mirage. So make sure you don’t miss his famous Engine Room Tour!

In addition to all things engineering, Mark is a keen walker and always at hand to share his knowledge of local walking trails with guests.

When not working, he enjoys spending time with his family as well as fresh-water fishing on his self-built boat.

Mark joined M/Y Mirage in 2013.

Andy Ingle

Chief Engineer

Nationality: South African
Languages: English, Afrikaans

Born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa, Andy has always had a passion for the outdoors.

His analytical and inquiring nature steered him to qualify in IT Engineering which further developed his trouble-shooting and logical skills. Over the next few 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, as well as Europe, Mediterranean and Adriatic Seas. Andy initially joined the team on M/Y Mirage as an Electrical Technical Officer/ Second Engineer but after a few years of proving his great professionalism and further expanding his skill sets, he successfully qualified to become a Chief Engineer.

Andy’s composed nature and can-do attitude, coupled with his troubleshooting abilities ensure a safe and smooth operating environment onboard. He is always delighted to share interesting facts about the M/Y Mirage and always looks forward to welcoming guests on the Engine Room Tour!

Andy joined Mirage in 2015.

Nikolina Brozovic

Chief Stewardess

Nationality: Croatian
Languages: English & Croatian

Nina comes from Ogulin, a serene mountain town in central Croatia, yet her spirit always gravitated towards the sea. Spending seven dynamic years as a PR and sports entertainer at a coastal resort, she seamlessly blended adventure with charm. 

During this time, she also pursued a professional handball career for eighteen years, alongside completing her studies in Landscape Architecture and earning a graduate diploma from Fitness University in Rijeka, Croatia.

In 2017, Nina embarked on a new chapter with Mirage, swiftly ascending the ranks to Chief Stewardess by 2021. Renowned for her infectious positivity, unwavering drive, and commitment to teamwork, Nina shines in orchestrating group activities and setting impeccable standards of service.

In her time off, fueled by a thirst for new experiences, Nina’s life is a whirlwind of constant travel, outdoor adventures, dedicated work on her photography and design side business, and fulfilling volunteer work at local animal charities.

Josefin Liefke

Chief Stewardess

Nationality: Swedish
Languages: English & Swedish

Josefin was born and raised in the coastal village of Löddeköpinge in Skåne, Sweden. She always found herself by the ocean and admiring the beauty thereof. Following in the footsteps of her father who worked on ferries, as well as all her siblings who have worked in yachting and the hospitality industry ,Josefin inevitably chose the industry as her career. 

She joined her first super yacht in 2005 beginning her journey on prestigious charter vessels, and now she has an incredible career spanning over 20 years. Josefin thrives on making sure everyone is well looked after, when all guests are happy and content, so is she.

With Josefin extensive experience in the yachting industry, her expertise lies in guest service, planning and coordination and always making sure her crew is in a safe and enjoyable environment. She always ensures that every detail is perfect for her guests and she is focused on creating a positive experience. 

In Josefin´s yachting career, she has had the most amazing opportunities to visit incredible places around the world. One of Josefin´s favorite places was the Galapagos Island, where she swam with the sea lions and got to see unique wildlife.  As well as travelling and trekking through Uganda to see the silver mountain gorillas. Josefine definitely has a big heart for travelling and seeking new adventures. 

In Josefin’s downtime she is a lover of the outdoors, be it hiking beautiful scenic trails or doing some unwinding yoga sessions. She is also passionate about dancing, especially Latin style dancing. Josefin also loves discovering hidden gems and enjoying good food. She especially values her connection and spending quality time with her family and friends.

Before joining Mirage, Josefin worked as a project coordinator for a new build over the course of three years. She worked hands on to better understand behind the scenes of luxury yacht building and creating. Now having joined Mirage ,Josefin currently resides in the beautiful South of France, in Roquefort-les-Pins.

Ben Dickerson

CHIEF OFFICER

Nationality: American
Languages: English

Joined: 2015

Ben was born and raised in New Jersey, famous for its beautiful beaches, great food and diverse culture.

Ben was first introduced to boating by his father at a young age. He has worked in the yachting industry for over 15 years, which makes him a highly experienced and skillful crewmember.

Some of his previous vessels include M/Y Highlander, M/Y Passion and M/Y Trafalgar where he was the captain for 3 years. Ben holds his MCA Chief Mate 3000 Ton License and is presently working towards his Masters 3000 Ton License. He is also an advanced PADI Diver.

Leading his deck team of four, Ben is dedicated to making your experience on-board exceed your expectations. An active outdoorsman, Ben enjoys wakeboarding, snowboarding, camping, rock climbing and white-water rafting. When not onboard Ben enjoys spending time with his wife and two little boys in Canada.

Ben joined M/Y Mirage in 2015.

Nico Scheepers

CHIEF OFFICER

Nationality: South African 
Languages: English & Afrikaans

Joined: 2019

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 “Kite Beach” 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 superyacht career in Florida. Since then, Nico has become a PADI rescue diver and very much enjoys his time freediving. 

 

Nico has recently achieved his Chief Mate 3000 certificate of competency.

Nico loves being active and will ride any board he can get his hands on. He is always friendly and eager to ensure there are smiles all around. 

Nico is available to assist you with any water sport activities you may wish to try out during your time onboard.

Bianca Verster

SECOND STEWARDESS

Nationality: South African
Languages: English & Afrikaans

Bianca was born and raised in a suburb called Somerset West from sunny Cape Town, South Africa. Bianca straight from highschool has always had a huge passion for the hospitality industry. She studied three years of event management and coordinator, including 2 years of event industry internships. One of them being completed in Sydney, Australia. 

 

She started wedding/event planning and coordination after completing her event management degrees. She has ever since thrived working in the industry and has a big drive to continue and develop her skills. 

 

In her free time Bianca enjoys tap dancing, photography and has always had a big love for the ocean as well as the outdoors and nature life. Her positive energy radiates throughout the crew and her work ethic on board. 

Bianca joined Mirage in 2023. 

Geromine Decuq

SOUS CHEF

Nationality: French

Languages: English & French

Geromine hails from Hong Kong but has cultivated a global lifestyle, having resided in Mumbai, Tokyo, Johannesburg, Seoul, London, and Paris. Embracing the nomadic life, she relishes the opportunity to immerse herself in diverse cultures and marvel at the unique beauty each locale offers.

Her culinary journey began in her childhood, as she delighted in crafting intricate cakes and pastries for her parents’ gatherings. This passion led her to pursue a degree in entrepreneurship and pastry from the esteemed Ferrandi Paris of Culinary Arts.

For Geromine, the role of sous chef is the pinnacle of her culinary ambitions. It affords her the chance to hone her skills under the guidance of the head chef, while also allowing her to indulge her wanderlust and bring joy to her colleagues through her culinary creations.

Beyond the kitchen, Geromine finds solace in surfing, literature, and the great outdoors. Her ultimate career aspiration is to transform her grandfather’s home in Essaouira, Morocco, into a boutique hotel and restaurant. To achieve this dream, she seeks to acquire the refined expertise of the yachting industry, blending high-end hospitality with her culinary flair.

Lutho Thomas

BOSUN 

Nationality: South African
Languages: English, Afrikaans, Isixhosa, IsiZulu & Sesotho

Joined: 2021

Lutho was born and raised in Gqebera, South Africa  (formerly known as Port Elizabeth), the so-called windiest city and he then later moved to Cape Town. 

Lutho went to the same High School as Captain Colin where he studied Maritime Economics and Nautical Science for 3 years and then became the Head Boy. 

Lutho learned everything in relation to SeamanShip skills and navigation, this is also where he refurbished a donated 26 foot sailing boat. Lutho started working at Maersk, a shipping company as an apprentice where he learned operations, health and safety.

Whilst at the academy Lutho spent his early years rowing before discovering something that he loved even more; sail boats. 

From 2017 until 2019, he sailed across the west coast of South Africa, taking part in many races and regattas. 

In 2020, Lutho completed his certificates and decided to transition into the yachting industry. 

Lutho is at hand to assist you with all your sailing needs. Lutho has also completed a foiling course on a F101 Trimaran, he currently has his YachtMaster Offshore Qualification and is now near completion of his OOW 3000gt qualification.

When not on board Lutho enjoys working on his music and DJ-ing, photography and improving health & wellness.

Kieran Elliot
ETO / SECOND ENGINEER

Nationality: Welsh

Languages: English, Welsh

Kieran was born in the seaside town of Llanelli in South Wales where he grew to love the sea and exploring the outdoors. In 2012 he started an apprenticeship in electrical engineering and studied at the University of Wales, Trinity St David. After 10 years of studying and working on land, his love for travel made him want to pursue a career in yachting as an engineer. Making his way to Palma, Mallorca, Kieran has spent the winter on Mirage and is looking forward to heading into the summer season. He assists the chief engineer with the maintenance and smooth operation of the yacht, as well as maintaining a wide range of complex onboard electronic and electrical equipment.

Kieran enjoys keeping fit and playing many sports including football, golf and hiking. From a young age he played electric guitar and also played snooker for his country up to the age of 14.

Kieran joined M/Y Mirage in 2021.

Addison King 

ETO / SECOND ENGINEER

Nationality: British
Languages: English & Spanish 

Addison’s journey began in Darlington, United Kingdom, but it was the move to the sun-kissed shores of Marbella in Malaga, Spain that truly ignited his passion for the outdoors and travel. Growing up along the coast, surrounded by the beauty of the ocean and nature, he found his heart drawn to exploration.

 

With over a decade of experience in engineering, Addison honed his skills while earning his control and instrumentation degree in electronics, mechanical, and electrical engineering through AWE (Atomic Weapons Establishment), where he dedicated six years of service.

 

In his leisure time, Addison thrives in the great outdoors, whether teeing off on the golf course, tackling mountain biking trails, or simply staying active and fit.

 

The allure of yachts beckoned to Addison from a young age, being always surrounded by them. Determined to first master his craft, he pursued qualifications and gained invaluable experience in engineering before transitioning to the yachting industry. Today, he works alongside the chief engineer, utilizing his comprehensive engineering expertise to maintain and excel in his duties aboard the yacht.

Piper Jackson 

STEWARDESS / FITNESS INSTRUCTOR

Nationality: Canadian
Languages: English

Piper’s journey began in Canada before she embarked on a path to Switzerland at the age of 13 to pursue her dream of becoming a professional ballerina. After three years in Barcelona honing her craft, she returned to her roots in Bermuda to explore her passion for fitness and Pilates.

In 2019, Piper obtained her fitness certifications, marking the beginning of her career as a Pilates trainer, personal fitness trainer, Les Mills instructor, and Barr instructor. Through her work, she has empowered numerous individuals to achieve their fitness goals and embrace a healthy lifestyle.

During her downtime, Piper finds solace in the tranquility of the beach, indulging in morning sunrise swims. She also enjoys playing tennis, golf, and indulging in occasional painting sessions.

Driven by her love for the ocean and boundless energy for fitness, Piper recently embarked on a new career journey, joining the Mirage team as our Fitness Instructor. Combining her passion for fitness and pilates with her love for the sea, she is eager to contribute her expertise to the crew and guests alike.

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Contact

Mirage is available for charter. Your next adventure is only a phone call or email away.

Contact your preferred charter broker.

Colin Richardson

Captain

Nationality: British
Languages: English/ Afrikaans
Colin was born in the UK although he spent his childhood growing up in South Africa. He spent 10 years sailing professionally until 1997 and then spent the next 7 years running various sailing boats in South East Asia. Colin has over 30 years of experience in the maritime industry and has cruised extensively all over the world. He was in command of a Perini-Navi in 2005 and then went on to Captaining M/Y PASSION for 7 years. Among his numerous qualifications, he holds a PADI Divemaster, MCA 3000 Tonne Captain’s license as well as a RYA Jet Ski and Level II Powerboat Instructor. As a result, M/Y MIRAGE can issue jet ski licenses for the duration of your trip. As Captain of M/Y Mirage, Colin combines his extensive experience and qualifications to guarantee a fun-filled memorable vacation with a well-developed sense of safety and security for everyone on board. Colin is always cheerful and great fun to be around and ensures that his crew all maintain the same positivity and professionalism that he does. He places a strong emphasis on planning, organisation and training to ensure impeccable vessel preparation and presentation. Colin handpicks highly qualified and motivated crew to cater to your every need and make sure you have a remarkable time on-board. When on land he lives in Warsash, UK with his wife and two children. Colin joined M/Y Mirage in 2012.

Zaira Ruiz 

LEAD DECKHAND / DIVE INSTRUCTOR

Nationality: Spanish
Languages: English & Spanish

Zaira was born and raised in Malaga, Spain. From a tender age, her heart was captivated by the sea, leading her to plunge into the depths as a diver at the age of 8. Today, she stands as a distinguished dive instructor, holding the prestigious title of PADI Master Dive Instructor.

Summers for Zaira meant sailing camps, where her connection with the ocean deepened, culminating in the completion of a RYA practical sailing course. Driven by her profound love for diving, traveling, and the vast expanse of the sea, she ventured into the yachting industry, envisioning a future as a chief officer.

In her leisure moments, Zaira finds joy in traversing the globe, embracing the camaraderie of volleyball matches, exploring the wonders beneath the waves, and forging connections with fellow adventurers from all corners of the world. With her radiant spirit, she uplifts the entire crew, ensuring that every journey is imbued with positivity and camaraderie.

Justin Ferrant 

DECKHAND

Nationality: South Africa / French
Languages: English

Born and raised in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, Justin had an adventurous
upbringing that set the stage for a life full of exploration. After attending
boarding school, Justin pursued a Bachelor of Education degree, completing the
four-year program before embarking on a journey that combined teaching with
travel.
Following graduation, he moved to Phuket, Thailand, to teach at a high school for
a year. This experience ignited a passion for discovering new cultures and led to a
move to Hanoi, Vietnam, where he spent another year teaching at an international school. However, the call for
adventure and the desire for new challenges prompted a shift into the yachting industry.
Along the way, Justin also enjoyed a ski season in Méribel, France, adding yet another dimension to an already
diverse background.
In his free time, Justin likes to exercise, slacklining, yoga, surfing, fishing, or simply enjoying music and a good
book.