CAPTAIN- JASON HOLT
Captain Jason is a season captain with over 10 years of experience and a strong background in marine engineering. He has captained a range of yachts from 40ft- 150 ft, ensuring smooth operations and the highest standard of service on board. Growing up in South Africa, he found his passion to be around or in water, which led him to this career path. He is a certified Dive & Fly Board instructor, so guests will learn from the best during their stay on INCEPTION. Jason also enjoys surfing and kitesurfing on a nice day off.
MATE- JUAN MELENDEZ
Juan was born in Tamaulipas, Mexico. He grew up working in his father's business, where he gained valuable experience dealing with people on passage boats. This early exposure of maritime life sparked his interest in pursuing a career in the field of maritime.
Juan decided to further his education by attending marine merchant school, where he studied for four years to become a mechanical engineer. During these studies, he excelled academically, consistently achieving some of the highest grades in his class.
after completing his education, Juan worked on merchant oil vessels approximately 189 meters in length. adhering to important maritime conventions such as SOLAS, MARPOL, and STCW. His dedication and expertise eventually led him to transition into the yachting industry, where he was worked full-time on private and charter yachts, including a 118' vessel.
in his free time, Juan enjoys fishing with his parents and kayaking. He is committed to staying updated with the latest information and courses related to his career. Known for his optimism, realism, and constant smile, Juan is a valued crew member of INCEPTION.
STEW/CHEF- DIANA JIMENEZ
Diana was born in Guadalajara, Mexico. She grew up in her mother's family business, cooking for 11 student girls while attending university.
While studying at university for her degree in communication graphic design, she was introduced to yachting during an architecture course. A chief stewardess introduced herself and talking about yachting and the rest was history. Diana started on a 30m yacht named WHITE PEARL with a spanish chief stew who was very patient, and she learned everything she now knows today. She improved over time and eventually became a crew chef and cooking more frequently for guests.
When Diana is not cleaning rooms or cheffing it up in the galley she is continually learning more about technology, practicing yoga, painting, dog therapy, and traveling.
2ND-STEWARDESS- LARASHE PRETORIUS
Larashe, a South African native, started her Maritime career when she worked on fishing charter boat a couple years ago, and eventually moving to a Motor Yacht in early 2024. She has a strong foundation in hospitality and a passion for delivering top-tier service to her guests aboard INCEPTION. Her smile lights up the room whenever she walks in. Her happy-go-lucky attitude creates a seamless and enjoyable experience, not only for guests but her other crew members as well. Larashe’s favorite hobbies include watersports, fishing, swimming, & capturing beautiful photos of all the destinations she visits.
CHEF- ZACHARY SEALS
Chef Zachary Seals brings over 15 years of culinary expertise to the yachting world, blending his Puerto Rican heritage with a mastery of international cuisines, including French, Mediterranean, and Caribbean. Born and raised in Chicago, Zach developed a passion for cooking from family traditions and honed his skills through formal culinary training. Known for his versatility, he creates customized menus accommodating vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-sensitive diets, crafting everything from breads to desserts from scratch. His dynamic approach, culinary creativity, and dedication to fresh, beautifully plated dishes create memorable dining experiences for guests on board.
FIRST OFFICER- JUSTIN DURANTY
Justin Duranty is an experienced Mate and Engineer with over five years in the yachting industry, specializing in vessel management, navigation, and engineering. Justin ensures smooth operations and safety on board, creating a reliable experience for owners and guests. While Justin loves and all activities to do with the ocean, his favorite boating location is Alaska. On a day off, you can find Jason at a local surf hot spot.
STEWARDESS- HANNAH HEYNS
Hannah was born and raised in Namibia. Her favorite thing to do back then was horseback riding and training, which taught her patience and relaxation, but also showed her adventurous side who does not shy away from challenges. Hannah is a proactive and dedicated worker and has the capabilities to handle diverse personalities. She like all her colleagues and coworkers enjoy water sports, especially in the Bahamas. A fun fact about Hannah, is that she used to be a semi-professional tug-of-war athlete.
