MARIA THERESE Yacht Charter Catamaran

Name: Samuel Marque
Position: Captain
Nationality: French
Languages: French, English & Indonesian

Captain Samuel Marque brings a unique blend of expertise, adventure, and genuine passion for the ocean. Originally from France and raised on the shores of Bali, Sam’s love for the sea started early, progressing from dinghy sailing as a child to commanding luxury yachts across the globe. His background in competitive surfing speaks to his deep respect for the water and the skills that come with it.

Sam holds a Yachtmaster Offshore certification, Approved Engine Course (AEC1), and is a PADI Open Water Diver. Fluent in French, English, and Indonesian, he’s as comfortable navigating cultural nuances as he is plotting a transatlantic passage.

With thousands of nautical miles under his belt, from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean and Southeast Asia, Sam is known for his meticulous approach to navigation and his ability to create unforgettable guest experiences. Over the past three years, he has successfully run charters between St. Martin (SXM), the US Virgin Islands (USVI), and the British Virgin Islands (BVI), showcasing his deep knowledge of these cruising grounds and his commitment to delivering seamless itineraries. Whether leading flotillas in Greece or managing ocean crossings, he thrives in dynamic environments and adapts seamlessly to every challenge.

More than a captain, Sam is a storyteller and a true seafarer. His dedication to safety and passion for sharing the magic of the ocean ensure that every journey leaves guests with the best memories cherished forever.

Name: Jamison Laxton
Position: Chef
Nationality: Canadian
Languages: English

Jamison is a highly capable yacht chef with strong experience delivering refined charter cuisine across the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and U.S. She has worked as a sole and lead chef on a wide range of sailing yachts and catamarans, creating polished guest dining experiences while also managing provisioning, galley budgets, inventory, and daily crew meals to a high standard.

Her culinary style is versatile and well developed, supported by specialist training in baking, sourdough, Asian cookery, and nutrition. Comfortable catering to different dietary preferences, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free menus, Jamison combines creativity with strong organisation in the galley, always focusing on quality, flexibility, and smooth execution.

Alongside her yacht chef background, she also brings valuable experience from private estate catering, large-scale hospitality operations, and chef training roles, which further strengthen her leadership, planning, and service standards. Professional, adaptable, and detail-oriented, Jamison brings a thoughtful and elevated approach to onboard dining.

Name: Rico Van Rooyen
Position: Deckhand
Nationality: South African
Languages: English and Afrikaans

Rico is a commercially endorsed Yachtmaster Offshore and experienced maritime professional with over 15,000 nautical miles of sea time, including an Atlantic crossing. He has worked across a wide range of sailing and power vessels, from monohulls to large catamarans, and brings hands-on expertise in navigation, boat handling, maintenance, and tender operations.

With experience as First Mate and Deck Engineer, Rico has operated extensively throughout the Caribbean, South Africa, and the Atlantic, managing both charter operations and long-distance deliveries. His responsibilities have included overseeing off-season maintenance, troubleshooting mechanical systems, and ensuring vessels are charter-ready to the highest standards.

Rico’s background in the automotive industry strengthened his skills in people management, inspections, and technical problem-solving, all of which translate seamlessly into the maritime environment. A PADI Advanced certified diver, fluent in English and Afrikaans, and a natural leader, he is known for leading by example, maintaining strong team alignment, and creating a calm, professional onboard atmosphere.

Name: Emma Crouch
Position: Deckhand (Rotational)
Nationality: British
Languages: English

Emma Crouch is a versatile maritime professional with over 5,000 nautical miles of navigation experience in varied sea states. Her extensive work history includes serving as a Sole Stewardess on the 80ft catamaran ENTRE4 in the Virgin Islands, a First Mate and Deck/Stew Instructor at the Paperboat Yacht Academy in the Dominican Republic, and holding various deckhand, stewardess, and delivery crew positions across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and the UK.

Prior to her yachting career, Emma has worked on land as an Emergency Medical Technician for the NHS in England, highlighting her capability to assess and treat patients in high-pressure medical emergencies.

Emma’s maritime qualifications are robust, featuring an STCW 2010 with PDSD, an ENG1 Medical certificate, a Food Safety Level 2 certification, and First Responder on Scene (FROS) training. Additionally, she is highly reliable and energetic, with a proven track record of maintaining composure in high-pressure situations.

Name: Elba Diaz
Position: Stewardess
Nationality: Spanish
Languages: English and Spanish

Elba is an experienced Stewardess with a strong background in high-end Mediterranean yachting. Having worked across a range of motor yachts from 52ft to 106ft, including Ferretti Custom Line and Mangusta models, she brings hands-on expertise in both interior service and deck operations.

With experience as both Sole Stewardess and Chief Stewardess, Elba has managed full interior programs, coordinated guest services, provisioning, and budgeting, and supported navigation watches and tender operations. Her calm professionalism, attention to detail, and ability to transition seamlessly between departments make her a reliable and adaptable crew member in both private and charter settings.

STCW-certified and holding advanced safety qualifications, Elba combines refined service standards with strong deck capabilities. Her background in interior design and event styling further enhances her presentation skills, ensuring guests enjoy a polished, welcoming onboard atmosphere.