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Meet The Crew

When you step onboard Motor Yacht TCB, you're greeted by professional and hospitable crew, each member embodying expertise in their respective roles. From the commanding presence of our captain to the tantalizing aromas from our chef's galley, every encounter with our crew promises a seamless and enriching experience. Our crew are dedicated to providing the best possible service to our guests, ensuring that they have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Scott Gaffga

Captain

Scott's maritime odyssey began in his teenage years on fishing boats in the Florida Keys, eventually leading him to the world of yachting as he matured. Despite his young age, he swiftly rose to become one of the industry's youngest and most respected captains, navigating his vessels with unwavering confidence. His steadfast commitment to a single owner across three boats saw him overseeing the construction of two new vessels, a testament to his pursuit of excellence. This dedication culminated in the establishment of a highly successful charter program in the Bahamas, where he has been cruising the waters for over two decades. Taking over the helm of TCB in 2019, Scott set out to craft the ultimate charter experience, making sure that every trip is filled with unique memories and endless opportunities for fun and relaxation. In addition to his maritime achievements, yachting has taken Scott across the globe, navigating through icy waters in Alaska, to cruising around Costa Rica, and more recently through the legendary Panama Canal. When he's not exploring the seas, Scott finds solace in activities like free-diving and spearfishing, immersing himself in the enchanting underwater world. Despite his global adventures, he always makes time for his family, savoring precious moments with his wife and two young children, embodying the roles of dedicated captain and devoted father.

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Scott Kidd

Captain

Scott's journey in the maritime world began more than 25 years ago. Originally from Jamaica, Scott’s love for the water came naturally. Surrounded by pristine turquoise waters and beautiful sunny beaches, Scott decided to pursue a career in yachting. Since joining, Scott has gained experience in many different sectors of the industry including new builds, refits, project management, and yacht management. Holding a USCG Master license for 1600 US Gross tonnage / 3000 international Tonnage across all oceans.  Scott combines his IT background with a strong mechanical know-how in maritime, transportation, machinery, and heavy equipment. Over the years, Scott’s adventures have taken him around the world! Scott has sailed throughout the beautiful Mediterranean, New England, Caribbean, Bahamas, Pacifice coast of the US, from Alaska to Panama and the South China Sea! Scott made new connections everywhere he went, traveling on vessels of different shapes and sizes. These newfound friendships inspired Scott to become a mentor at Legasea, a program dedicated to helping mariners grow and thrive in the industry. Scott enjoys being able to share his experiences and knowledge with fellow yacht crew. When he's not out on the water, Scott enjoys spending time with his family back home in Florida.

Shaun Brown

Engineer

Shaun is a Marine Engineer with experience in the superyacht industry since 2007, specializing in technical operations, preventative maintenance, and complex onboard systems management. Proven track record of ensuring vessel reliability, safety, and peak performance in demanding environments.

Outside of work, actively engaged in adventure sports, running, and fitness training. Also experienced in cryptocurrency trading, with a strong interest in emerging financial technologies and decentralized finance.

Dewald Ferreira 

Engineer

Growing up in the heart of South Africa’s Garden route, in the harbor town of Knysna, Dee's playground was the sparkling waters that surrounded him. Days spent fishing and diving instilled in him a deep-rooted affinity for the sea, laying the foundation for a lifelong love affair with all things maritime. Initially Dee carved his path as a skilled robotic technician. Dee honed his craft in the bustling automotive industry, building and programming robots with precision and expertise. Dee enjoyed his work, but the call of the ocean beckoned him, leading him to embark on a thrilling new adventure as a yacht engineer in 2012. Blending his technical prowess with his passion for the sea, Dee found his true calling. Since joining the vessel in 2017, Dee has been an integral part of the ship's seafaring legacy, ensuring the smooth operation of its sophisticated systems as they navigate the vast and unpredictable oceans. From the sun-drenched coastlines of the Mediterranean to the remote paradises of the Pacific, Dee's journey onboard has been nothing short of extraordinary. His role as a yacht engineer has not only allowed him to explore the world's most breathtaking destinations, it also led him to meet the love of his life!  As Dee continues to sail the seas aboard TCB, he remains committed to his passion for yachting, and his love for the sea grows stronger. 

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Tristram

First Officer

Meet Tristram (Tris), from the UK—the home of the largest natural harbour in the world—before embarking on a maritime journey that began with studying for his unlimited tonnage officer’s license in the Merchant Navy. He cut his teeth in the oil and gas industry of the North Sea and has since navigated some of the world’s most remarkable waters—serving on the largest yacht in existence, guiding large charter vessels throughout the Mediterranean, and spending six memorable years on his previous program cruising from the rugged Alaskan coast to the scenic shores of Nova Scotia, with countless stops in between. In fact, he’s sailed every ocean on the planet, a testament to his unwavering passion for adventure.

Beyond the bridge, Tris is a multi-talented individual who loves sailing, surfing, diving, and fishing—he’s fished major sport fishing tournaments around the globe and even represented Great Britain in dinghy racing as a teenager. A social butterfly at heart, he channels his energetic spirit as a DJ and once worked as a tour manager for high-profile DJs across Europe and the USA. Not only that, but he’s also spent time as a cardiac technician and ran a successful landscaping business showcasing his versatility both on and off the water. With his boundless energy, quick sense of humor, and knack for making people laugh, Tristram is eager to create unforgettable moments for guests and crew alike.

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Chad Southwood

Bosun

Meet Chad, the unparalleled Bosun of TCB.

Legend has it that he was born with flippers instead of feet. Raised in the warm (and slightly toothy) waters of Durban, he’s become a master at fishing, surfing, and skillfully dodging the occasional shark. Although he once tried his hand at carpentry, he soon realized that a plank on land couldn’t compete with the thrill of a plank on a boat!

Now, in addition to being the yacht's unofficial merman, Chad fancies himself a golf enthusiast—though his skills might be a bit more charming than proficient. And his jokes? Let’s just say they’re... one-of-a-kind. If you hear one, be sure to laugh; it’s for the greater good.

Chad is the go-to guy for anyone looking to conquer water sports. With him by your side, you'll find yourself riding the waves like a pro in no time—or at least with fewer face-plants!

When he’s off duty, you’ll likely catch Chad attempting to turn sandcastles into actual carpentry projects or shredding it up on any board sport he can find. After all, why settle for one board when you can have them all?

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Luca Oosthuizen 

Deckhand

Luca is from Stellenbosch, South Africa, with two years of yachting experience under his belt. With a background in computers, IT, and gaming, he’s the go-to guy when tech acts up. A big rugby and sports fan, he brings good energy, sharp banter, and a solid work ethic — always up for a laugh, but never taking it overboard.

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Steve Mills

Chef

Steve was born in Durban and raised with a deep passion for the ocean, fostered by a family lifestyle centered around the sea. Fishing, surfing, and sailing were core family activities that not only grounded him but also provided invaluable experience on the water, shaping him into a highly competent and reliable crew member.

His passion for creating unforgettable dining experiences was inspired by watching his grandfather’s love for cooking and hospitality. The lasting memories his grandfather created through his meals left a profound impact on Steve and instilled in him a desire to evoke similar moments for others. Steve is a proud graduate of the classic French “Grande” Diploma program, having completed three years of study in 2004. Over the past 20 years, he has focused his career in the private sector, believing that personalized cheffing is both the most demanding and rewarding aspect of the culinary arts. He thrives in challenging environments and has always sought to push himself to the highest level in his craft.

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Adam Zarkowski

Chef

Adam, originally from Poland and a Tampa, Florida resident for over 30 year,  brings over two decades of culinary expertise to the yachting industry.  Since starting his career 20000 in 2000, Adam has honed his skills aboard both private and charter yachts,  crafting unforgettable dining experiences tailored to guests preferences.  Adam is known for his creativity and dedication to excellence, Adam specializes in Mediterranean cuisine, though he is versatile in a wide range of styles.  He has previously worked on programs like M/Y Attitude, where he further developed his culinary artistry and attention to detail.  His commitment to perfection and accommodating all dietary requests.  He has earned a reputation as "the best of the best" in in his field. Outside of the galley, Adam enjoys swimming, biking, and playing tennis, constantly perusing an active lifestyle.

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Elizabeth Verkerk  

Chief Stewardess

Bubbly, warm‑spirited, and always smiling, Elizabeth Verkerk is a proud South African who grew up along the sunny coastline of Durban. Her childhood was spent outdoors—either on the beach or out on the lake waterskiing and wakeboarding—cultivating a lifelong love for the ocean and an active, adventurous lifestyle.

Before entering yachting, Elizabeth completed her BCom in Financial Management and spent 10 years working in the hospitality and event management industry. Her professional background, combined with her passion for the water, naturally guided her into the world of yachting in 2020.

Since then, Elizabeth has embraced every aspect of her career at sea. Yachting has taken her to some of the world’s most remarkable destinations, including the entire west coast of America up to Alaska, the east coast of the United States, the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, the Norwegian Fjords, and the Mediterranean.

Elizabeth is highly dedicated to delivering exceptional, high‑end service while creating a warm, fun, and comfortable atmosphere for guests. She loves bringing her hospitality expertise, positive energy, and ocean‑loving spirit together to enhance every experience onboard.

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Chrissie Smith 

Second Stewardess

South African sunshine from Paternoster, South Africa. A former teacher who swapped the classroom for the maritime industry, now 2 years into yachting and loving the adventure. Big on movement, positive energy, and making the most of every day — whether that’s a sunrise workout, a busy charter, or a good laugh with great people.

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Abby Etter

Third Stewardess

Born and raised in Dawsonville, Georgia, Abby brings Southern warmth, professionalism, and a true passion for hospitality to every charter. With a background in agriculture from Cal Poly University and years spent coaching springboard diving, she combines a unique set of skills to the program. A certified Divemaster and avid surfer, she loves being on and under the water—making her a perfect fit for life at sea. Her favorite part of yachting is creating exceptional guest experiences, whether it’s setting up elegant table service, anticipating guest needs, or sharing her knowledge of the ocean during dive excursions. Abby is dedicated to ensuring every moment onboard is relaxed, memorable, and effortlessly enjoyable.

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