Meet your Captain, Jacques

All the way from sunny South Africa, Jacques joined Serenity in 2026, bringing over 18 years of hospitality expertise and a lifelong passion for creating unforgettable experiences. Before taking to the sea full-time, Jacques owned and operated successful beach-themed restaurants—a background that shines through in his warm, welcoming hospitality and love for great food and great company.

Equally at home entertaining on deck or leading below water, Jacques is a skilled boat handler, an experienced chef, and a qualified SSI Divemaster. Whether he’s keeping operations running seamlessly behind the scenes, guiding guests on an underwater dive, or crafting a memorable evening on board, his goal is always the same: ensuring guests feel relaxed, safe, and completely catered to.

Known for his easy-going nature and positive energy, Jacques believes life at sea is all about balance: exceptional service, seamless teamwork, and creating those magic, unforgettable moments on the water that guests will talk about for years to come.

Hi, I’m Gys, your Chef!

I grew up in a small farming town in South Africa, where weekends were often spent on the farm with my family. Some of my fondest memories are helping my mom in the kitchen. Watching her cook from the heart, she taught me that food is much more than a meal, it’s a way of bringing people together, creating memories, and showing people you care. That passion has stayed with me ever since.

Although I grew up far from the ocean, I was always drawn to the water. Family holidays at the coast meant spending hours swimming in the waves, and I never wanted to leave. Looking back, it feels like the sea was always calling me.

After high school I was accepted to study law, but instead I chose to take a leap into the unknown and explore the world. What was meant to be a one-year adventure has turned into an incredible journey in yachting! I started as a Deck/Stew, helping the chef whenever I had the chance, and quickly discovered that the galley was where I truly belonged. Through the guidance of an amazing mentor, I was trained to cook for up to 20 guests and 7 crew, and I’ve been pursuing my passion as a yacht chef ever since.

Over the past three years I’ve been fortunate enough to call the British Virgin Islands home. From the crystal-clear waters to the incredible people, I have fallen in love with this special part of the world and can’t wait to share it with you.When I’m not in the galley, you’ll usually find me mixing cocktails, setting beautiful tables, diving, snorkeling, or enjoying time with guests. I love creating genuine connections and believe the best charters are the ones where everyone feels like family.

I look forward to welcoming you aboard Serenity , sharing my love of food and the islands, and helping create memories that you’ll treasure long after your charter comes to an end!

 

Jacques

Captain

Languages: English

Gys

Chef/First Mate

South African

Languages: English, Afrikaans