A-PLAN
Crew Profile
Wim Henderieckx
Captain BELGIAN
Sail and work experience
Wim is a highly experienced captain whose lifelong passion for sailing evolved into a distinguished career, including competitive racing and coaching at the highest level. He notably led the Belgian Olympic sailing team to a bronze medal at the London Games. His career spans extensive cruising and charter experience in the Bahamas, Florida, Caribbean, and the Mediterranean, as well as an Atlantic crossing. With a focus on precision, guest satisfaction, and safe navigation, Wim brings a wealth of knowledge to every charter, ensuring smooth operations and memorable journeys for guests.
Job Description
Wim is responsible for navigation, safety, the overall running and financial management of the vessel, crew, and guests. He ensures the safe and efficient operation of the yacht at all times, including compliance with all safety procedures and regulations. He takes care of adhering to flag regulations, port state and local laws and regulations, and manages the crew to ensure adherence to, and a full understanding of, the vessel’s policies. He provides daily leadership for the crew and encourages team-work, individual growth, and personal attention by delegating duties and supervising all crew tasks.
Languages
English, Dutch, French
Ben Findley
Captain (Rotational) NEW ZEALANDER
Sail and work experience
Ben is a highly experienced captain with over 25 years at sea, commanding sailing yachts across some of the world’s most challenging and beautiful cruising grounds. Hailing from New Zealand, his extensive career has taken him across global waters, where he has built a reputation for both technical excellence and outstanding guest service. With a meticulous approach to safety and detail, Ben brings calm professionalism and a passion for the ocean to every charter. His background as a sailor, surfer, and marine photographer adds a unique dimension to the guest experience, often crafting unforgettable, personalized adventures on board.
Job Description
Ben is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel, overseeing navigation, compliance, and all aspects of daily yacht management. He leads the crew with a calm and approachable demeanor, fostering a warm and professional environment for guests and crew alike. Ben ensures that each voyage runs smoothly, safely, and with careful attention to the guest experience—offering tailored itineraries, adventure planning, and seamless execution.
Languages
English, Spanish
Griet Vanderick
Chef BELGIAN
Sail and work experience
Griet transitioned to yachting after a successful 30-year career in accounting and raising a family, discovering her true passion in cooking. Since 2022, she has been working as a chef in the charter industry alongside her husband, sailing throughout the Bahamas, Caribbean, and Mediterranean, with a transatlantic crossing under her belt. Griet is passionate about creating personalized, high-quality dining experiences, drawing inspiration from diverse culinary traditions and fresh ingredients to craft flavorful, memorable meals for guests on board.
Job Description
Griet is responsible for all aspects of food preparation and galley management on board. She designs seasonal menus tailored to guests’ preferences and dietary requirements, sourcing fresh local ingredients and creating beautifully presented, delicious meals. She ensures high standards of hygiene and food safety are maintained and works closely with the captain and crew to deliver a seamless and luxurious onboard experience.
Languages
English, Dutch, French
Leroy Cave
Deckhand SOUTH AFRICAN
Sail and work experience
Leroy is a seasoned seafarer with over 15 years of experience, primarily as a First Mate on both private and charter yachts. His extensive cruising experience includes the West Mediterranean, Tyrrhenian Sea, North Sea, Baltic Sea, English Channel, Canary Islands, Indian Ocean, and Andaman Sea. He began sailing in the challenging waters of Cape Town, racing on Fast 42s and a Pacer 37, before advancing into professional yachting. Leroy combines strong seamanship with a service-oriented approach, ensuring both operational excellence and guest satisfaction on every voyage.
Job Description
Leroy supports the captain in all deck operations, navigation, and maintenance tasks. He assists with docking, line handling, water sports, and guest activities, ensuring all safety procedures are followed. With his experience as First Mate, he contributes to smooth vessel operations and guest comfort, playing a key role in both the technical and hospitality aspects of the charter experience.
Languages
English, Afrikaans