KINGS RANSOM

Captain: Rohan van der Merwe

Born and raised in South Africa, Rohan’s passion for nature, adventure, and hospitality shaped his career long before entering the yachting industry. After managing a luxury game lodge in the Greater Kruger National Park and working alongside rhino and pangolin conservation teams, his love for the natural world soon extended from the bush to the sea.

Rohan began his sailing career along South Africa’s rugged West Coast before venturing abroad to explore new cruising grounds and expand his experience within the yachting industry. With a calm, confident presence onboard and a strong foundation in professional seamanship, he combines capability, adaptability, and an approachable style that immediately puts guests at ease.
Dedicated to continual growth within the maritime sector, Rohan thrives in dynamic environments and enjoys refining his skills through new experiences and challenges. His background spans both charter sailing yachts and motor yachts, giving him a versatile and well-rounded approach to life at sea.

Comfortable in both high-energy and relaxed charter settings, Rohan particularly enjoys facilitating water sports and ocean activities, with a special passion for diving. Whether guiding guests through adventurous days on the water or sharing stories from his time in the African bush, he brings warmth, professionalism, and genuine enthusiasm to every charter experience.
Known for his steady leadership, positive attitude, and strong connection to both the ocean and nature, Rohan is committed to delivering safe, seamless, and memorable experiences for every guest onboard.

First Mate: Nick van Beek 

Born and raised in South Africa, Nick developed a deep appreciation for nature and the ocean from a young age. With a calm, hardworking nature and a strong practical skill set, he plays an essential role both behind the scenes and on deck, ensuring every charter runs smoothly and guests feel completely at ease onboard.

As First Mate, Nick brings a hands-on approach to all aspects of yacht operations, from deck maintenance and tender handling to guest activities and safety. Reliable, capable, and always willing to lend a hand, he is known for his positive attitude, strong work ethic, and ability to adapt effortlessly in any situation.

Nick has a genuine passion for the ocean and enjoys sharing that enthusiasm with guests through a wide range of water activities. Whether taking guests out on the tender, assisting with water sports, guiding snorkelling adventures, or helping guests experience the thrill of sailing, he is always eager to create fun and memorable moments on the water. A keen diver and ocean lover, he especially enjoys introducing guests to the beauty of the underwater world.

While naturally more easy-going and grounded in personality, Nick’s warm sense of humour and approachable nature make him a favourite among guests. His relaxed energy, professionalism, and genuine enjoyment of life at sea help create a welcoming atmosphere onboard, ensuring every charter aboard Kings Ransom is both seamless and unforgettable.

Stewardess: Shana van Zyl 

Born and raised in a small town in South Africa, Shana developed a strong sense of community, warmth, and genuine hospitality from a young age. After relocating to Cape Town and embracing the coastal lifestyle, she followed her passion for the ocean into the yachting industry, later gaining valuable experience while working aboard yachts in the Caribbean.

With a natural eye for detail and a love for creating beautiful, welcoming spaces, Shana takes great pride in ensuring every moment onboard feels effortless and special. Her calm, friendly nature and attentive approach allow guests to immediately feel comfortable and well cared for from the moment they step aboard.

Passionate about exceptional service, Shana is dedicated to anticipating guests’ needs and creating personalised experiences tailored to each charter. Whether preparing elegant table settings, maintaining immaculate interiors, or helping create unforgettable days at sea, she brings professionalism, positivity, and genuine enthusiasm to every charter experience.

Chef: Anastasiia Onyshchenko

Anastasiia is a versatile Private and Yacht Chef with extensive experience aboard luxury private and charter yachts, as well as high-end villas and events. Ukrainian and based in Antibes, she specializes in Mediterranean, French, Asian, Middle Eastern, Mexican, and Eastern European cuisine, with additional expertise in baking, pastry, bread making, and health-oriented cuisine.

Experienced as a Sole Chef, Sous Chef, Relief Chef, and Crew Chef, Anastasiia is confident catering to VIP guests and large-scale events, including Cannes Film Festival, Cannes Lions, and MIPIM. She is known for her creativity, adaptability, strong organizational skills, and ability to tailor menus to individual guest preferences. She speaks English, French, Italian, Polish, and Ukrainian.