Power Yacht Sweet Escape

Captain: Paul Garfield

Born in England and raised in South Africa, Captain Paul has been drawn to the water from an early age. His passion for sailing began at just five years old when he started racing Optimist dinghies on a salt pan, a love for the sea that would eventually lead him to the world of superyachts by the age of 19.

With a career spanning the globe, Paul has worked on a variety of prestigious yachts, ultimately settling into the 130ft range. He holds a Master 3000 tonnage certificate and boasts over a decade of experience as a captain, accumulating several hundred thousand sea miles—including an impressive 14 Atlantic crossings.

A true water sports enthusiast, Paul is not only a skilled sailor but also a PADI Dive Master, a certified Jet Ski instructor, and has recently taken up kite surfing. Now back in the breathtaking Bahamas as the Captain of M/Y SWEET ESCAPE, Paul is dedicated to creating an exciting, fun, and safe environment while delivering the highest standard of service to his guests. Whether navigating pristine waters, organizing thrilling adventures, or ensuring a seamless charter experience, Paul’s expertise and enthusiasm make every journey unforgettable.

Engineer - Warren Deyes

Languages: English

Warren was born in the port town of Durban, South Africa, where he developed a love for surfing and the ocean. Here, he also expanded his

passion to spearfishing, fishing and water sports. Warren then got into photography and has a keen eye when it comes to taking the shot!

He joined the yachting industry in 2019 with his wife, M” and since then they have traveled to many places, including the Caribbean, the Bahamas,

the entire east coast and parts of the west coast of the US, as well as British Columbia in Canada. They plan to continue traveling extensively!

Warren previously worked in the automotive manufacturing industry for 15 years, before transitioning to yachting. He has always loved working with

his hands and engineering has come naturally to him. Warren always looks forward to new adventures and opportunities in this exciting field of

yachting.

Deckhand - Jay Huisamen

Languages: English

Johannes Gideon Huisamen (AKA Jay) comes from the Northern part of Pretoria, South Africa. Jay spent his younger years modeling for brands

back home and working in his Father’s business as a salesman. Despite growing up inland all his life, Jay loves the ocean and with a little

help from a friend, he decided to pack up his bags and enter the world of yachting! His first position in this industry led him straight to M/Y Sweet

Escape. Here, he worked for six months as a temporary crew member. His hard work, determination and his positive disposition set him apart,

which then led him to secure a full time role onboard Sweet Escape, making his dream come true! He has been onboard for over three years

now and knows this vessel inside out.

Jay cannot wait to welcome you all aboard and make sure that everyone has the time of their lives on M/Y Sweet Escape!

Chef - Mario Barnard

Languages: English

Mario's love for food began in the kitchen, where he discovered his passion for crafting unforgettable dishes. With boundless creativity and a relentless

pursuit of perfection, he soon became renowned in South Africa for his culinary expertise.

Mario founded two beloved dining establishments, however, it was his daring leap into the world of sustainable dining that set him apart. With

the launch of South Africa's first insect restaurant, Mario ignited a culinary revolution, challenging palates and perceptions with his innovative

approach to gastronomy.

Now, amidst the tranquil waters of the yachting industry, Mario brings his unique flair and passion for excellence to our charter guests. Every dish he

creates is a reflection of his commitment to culinary artistry and the joy of sharing unforgettable moments around the table. Mario will be sure to

elevate your experience onboard M/Y Sweet Escape!

Chief Stewardess - Kristin Stanford

Languages: English

Kristin grew up sailing Hobie-cats and always knew that she wanted to join the yachting industry. Right after school, she hopped onto a plane to France

and climbed aboard the first sailing yacht she saw. Since then, she has done multiple Atlantic crossing and achieved her yacht master’s qualification.

Kristin had an opportunity to open her own café back in her hometown, Stellenbosch, which she ran for three years. After that, she decided to focus

more on the hospitality side of yachting and has now joined chartering motor yachts, which led her to M/Y Sweet Escape.

She enjoys spending time outdoors and doing anything active like running, kitesurfing, hiking, and most importantly, traveling. Kristin has so much love

for adventure and meeting amazing people along the way. She is excited to get to know all the guests and cater this experience to them

- so that their trip is nothing short of extraordinary!

Stewardess - Meretha Deyes

Languages: English

Meretha (AKA M”) grew up in Hluhluwe, South Africa. A small farming town in Northern KZN. She loves farm-life and being outdoors, and often

spends her off-time walking or baking. She has a keen interest in understanding nutrition and health.

M” joined the yachting industry in 2019 and since then, working on both private and charter vessels, has traveled extensively. Before she started her

yachting career, she acquired her Bachelor's degree in graphic design and worked as a junior designer for PlusNarrative, a South African based design

company.

Her love for the ocean and for traveling to new places then pushed her to make a career change. M” now enjoys working in the yachting industry,

with her husband, Warren.

Deckhand - Graham French

Languages: English

Graham was born and grew up in Johannesburg, South Africa. Graham has recently joined the yachting industry , in 2024. Taking a somewhat

"sabbatical" from his Architecture career back home in South Africa. Before pursuing Architecture he obtained a Bachelor's Degree in

Communications and Management, followed by working 3 years in the Advertising industry. Following that, he obtained an Advanced Diploma in

Architectural Technology, and worked in the Architectural industry for 7 years.

Graham is passionate about art, design, construction, music and architecture. He also greatly enjoys being in nature and wildlife, being an avid hiker and

camper. Graham shows great initiative with guests and will ensure an unforgettable stay onboard M/Y Sweet Escape.