James Speed grew up in a small town in South Africa and has been immersed in the marine industry for over 10 years. He has a love for the ocean and is passionate about travel which ultimately drew him to a life on the water. Yachting has fueled this passion and taken him to Mediterranean, Baltic Sea, Russia, Eastern Europe, North and Central America. Having been on various well run charter vessels James has extensive experience and knowledge and will ensure that your time onboard is filled with adventure and fun. James leads from the front and has a professional, enthusiastic yet still easy-going leadership style. In 2022 he married chief stewardess Jessie Speed and together they aim to ensure your Stay Salty experience is incredible. When James is not on the ocean, he will be Wing Foiling, Fishing, spearfishing, Kayaking, or adventuring in the mountains on two wheels or by foot.
Relief Captain- Paul Roux (now through DEC 2024)
Paul grew up in a small town along the coast of South Africa, where he has been going out to sea from a very young age. This naturally led him to a career in yachting, and for the past twelve years he has been working on several prestigious charter yachts sailing the Mediterranean and Caribbean Sea. Safety and providing a five-star experience for Stay Salty's guests is of utmost importance to him. He is passionate about planning exciting itineraries and activities for all guest's enjoyment. you can expect a seamless experience while on board, and rest assured that the captain has all your wishes taken care of. In his downtime, Paul enjoys diving, fishing, hiking, exploring local cuisines and meeting people from different countries.
Chief Mate- Gabriel Viviers
Meet Riël Viviers, a sun-kissed soul hailing from the idyllic shores of Victoria Bay, South Africa, where he lives just a stone's throw away from an awe-inspiring surfers' paradise. Growing up surrounded by sports enthusiasts, Riël's life has been an exhilarating journey through waves and mountains. In his early days, he effortlessly mastered the art of surfing and spearfishing. The water beckons to Riël, but so do the majestic mountains, which he eagerly hikes and climbs.
Post high school, Riël set his sights on the yachting industry, working tirelessly to secure his foundational licenses right out of the gate. His unwavering commitment has set him on a course toward the prestigious rank of a Captain one day. With a cheerful disposition and a willingness to lend a hand both in and out of the water, Riël is the kind of person who spreads happiness wherever he goes.
Chief Engineer- Omar Browm
Born in St. Ann, Jamaica and studied Marine Engineering at the Caribbean Maritime University and Mechanical Engineering at University of Technology, Jamaica. Omar embarked on his engineering experience working in the commercial industry on vessels such as Oil tankers, Tugboats, Offshore Supply Vessels and Passenger Ships. Omar holds his 111/11 unlimited management level and a degree in maritime engineering. IN 2007 Omar decided to transition into the Yachting industry. During this period Omar was privileged to cruise places such as France, Italy, Monaco, Turkey, Croatia. Greece, Bahamas, Caribbean, South Pacific, and the Florida Keys. Having joined STAY SALTY at the beginning of the year he has been an invaluable asset to the team and is looking forward to this upcoming Winter season. If Omar is not in the engine room, you can find him playing or watching soccer or producing and listening to music.
Chief Stewardess- Kirsten Putziger
Kirsten, born and raised in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, has a strong passion for events and marketing. She then spent over six years working in sports marketing and hospitality for prestigious clients in South Africa, Kirsten also served as the events coordinator and wedding planner for a renowned 5-star wine estate near Stellenbosch. Discovering the world of yachting has been an enriching experience for Kirsten, allowing her to travel to various countries and experience diverse cultures. She enjoys the outdoors and spends time on her family farm in South Africa whenever possible. Kirsten is committed to maintaining high standards and has a passion for welcoming guests and looking forward to having you onboard M/Y Stay Salty for a memorable trip.
2nd Stewardess/ Masseuse- Kendal Cole
Kendal grew up in Durban and was raised in the vibrant city of Johannesburg, South Africa. Kendal has always had a profound connection with the ocean and her fondest memories involve vacations by the sea. Kenz has a strong foundation in the health and wellness industry, where she brings her unique blend of expertise and passion to her endeavors. A contagiously happy and energetic individual, Kendal radiates positivity wherever she goes. Having dedicated a year to the industry, Kendal is just beginning her journey in the exciting world of yachting. With her warm and uplifting personality, you will see her always smiling and embracing each day with enthusiasm.
3RD Stewardess- Emma Bell
Emma grew up in the vibrant landscapes of Cape Town with captivating beaches, majestic mountains, and renowned wine farms. She thrives on the thrill of exploration and constantly seeking new trails in nature. Emma’s academic pursuit in clothing studies cultivated a deep passion for creativity, and a keen eye for design; one day pursuing her own creative venture or business. Emma embraces the opportunity of meeting new people and new experiences. Emma embraces the opportunity of meeting new people and new experiences.
Deckhand- Sam Speed
Meet Sam Speed, a small town South African. He was raised a short drive from both the Drakensberg mountains and the warm ocean of SA's east coast. After finishing schooling in South Africa Sam pursued all avenues that lead to adventure, becoming a walking guide on the Wild Coast of South Africa as well as joining an expedition to the frigid reaches of Antarctica on 2 separate occasions. In his time on the Wild Coast Sam became an avid spear and fly fisherman embracing life by the sea. With an unquenchable thirst for adventure Sam grabbed the opportunity presented to him to join the Stay Salty team where he eagerly learns everyday as he lends a happy helping hand in any situation where it may be required.
