MEMENTO VIVERE

Crew Info:

Captain Billy Lockhart (rotational)

Billy grew up in Raleigh, North Carolina, and has spent most of his life on the water. With more than 20 years in the yachting industry, he holds a USCG 1600/3000-ton Oceans license with Cayman Islands endorsement and brings extensive experience across all aspects of yacht operations, from captain and engineer to project management and fleet operations. His cruising experience spans Alaska, New England, the Caribbean, Panama Canal, Bahamas, and the Eastern and Western Mediterranean, as well as Scandinavia and the North Sea. He has completed four Atlantic crossings and spent countless seasons exploring, fishing, and diving throughout Florida and the Bahamas. Known for his proactive leadership and “can-do” approach, Billy believes a positive, cohesive crew environment is essential to creating an exceptional experience for owners and guests. In his free time, he enjoys fishing, skiing, SCUBA diving, cooking, and exploring the Bahamas.



Captain Alan Ham (rotational)

Born in South Carolina and raised on the coast of Georgia, just south of Savannah, Alan was immersed in a boating and fishing family that laid the groundwork for his future as a captain. After completing his studies at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, Alan's adventures catapulted him beyond the waters of Georgia when he accepted an invitation to sail across the Atlantic to Kinsale, Ireland—a journey that solidified his passion for life at sea. Realizing that yachting was his true calling, Alan pursued a career in the industry, a decision he'll tell you was the best he ever made. Known for his engaging conversation and love of sharing new experiences, Alan is a gracious host who delights in introducing guests to stunning locations and exciting activities. An accomplished fisherman, skillful engineer, and thoughtful captain with an infectious smile and can-do attitude, Alan ensures that every guest feels safe and well cared for—whether they’re reeling in the catch of the day, riding an

First Officer Marthinus Van Der Berg (rotational) 

Meet Marnus, MV’s First Mate - part maritime expert and part morale booster. Hailing from Senekal, South Africa, he swapped the bushveld for the open ocean in 2020, thanks to a captain from his hometown who wisely saw his potential (or just needed a really good deckhand). But don’t let the polished uniform fool you—before yachting, he was shaping young minds as an English teacher in South Korea and Vietnam, and as an au pair in Texas (because even cowboys need life lessons). 

Armed with a B.Comm in Sports and Recreation Management, a Yachtmaster 200GT, and a stack of certifications that prove he knows his port from his starboard, Marnus isn’t just about keeping the ship in top shape - he’s about creating an onboard experience you won’t forget.

Off duty, you’ll find him behind a camera, testing out new cuisines, perfecting his golf swing, or grilling up a storm with family and friends - because if there’s one thing he loves as much as the sea, it’s a proper South African “braai.” With plans to captain 70-100 foot yachts and retire at 45 (preferably with a real estate empire), he lives by the motto: “Upwards and onwards.”



First Officer Jonathon Hayward (rotational) 

Jonathon joins M/Y Memento Vivere as Chief Officer with several years’ experience on both charter and private yachts of various sizes. Having worked his way up through the deck ranks, he brings strong skills in navigation, safety management, and deck operations, and believes in a hands-on, lead-by-example approach to leadership.

Originally from South Africa, Jonathon enjoys fitness, watersports, and exploring new destinations. He’s excited to be part of the team this season and looks forward to safe passages, smooth operations, and a few good laughs along the way.



Engineer Jaco Liebenberg (rotational)

Originally from Johannesburg, South Africa, Jaco grew up around boats and the outdoors, spending much of his childhood fishing and exploring with his family. With a lifelong connection to the water and a natural curiosity for how things work, a career at sea was always a natural path.

After completing his Bachelor’s degree in Actuarial and Financial Mathematics, he decided that office life wasn’t for him and set his sights on a more hands-on career in the yachting industry, where he has worked as an engineer ever since, enjoying the technical challenges and dynamic nature of life onboard.

In his time off, Jaco is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys travelling and exploring new destinations. Fishing, hiking, and spending time in nature are among his favourite pursuits, and he values the opportunity yachting provides to experience the world from a unique perspective.

Engineer Grant Van Dyk (rotational) 

Hailing from sunny South Africa, Grant is the man who keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes aboard Memento Vivere!

With an impressive engineering background, including nearly five years as the original build engineer aboard his previous yacht, Grant brings a wealth of technical knowledge, hands-on experience, and a knack for solving problems before anyone even knows they exist. From the engine room to the finer details of yacht operations, he’s happiest when everything is running like a well-oiled machine!

But there’s much more to Grant than engines, tools, and technical wizardry. A proud father of two young children back home in South Africa, he’s a devoted family man who treasures every moment spent with his loved ones.

When he’s not keeping Memento Vivere in shipshape condition, you’ll likely find him cheering on the Springboks, firing up the braai, or catching a few waves whenever the opportunity arises. A true South African through and through, Grant firmly believes that a good rugby match, a proper braai, and a day at the beach are hard to beat!

With his friendly nature, wealth of experience, and dedication to keeping everything running seamlessly, Grant is a valued member of the Memento Vivere crew, helping ensure every guest enjoys a smooth, comfortable, and unforgettable experience aboard.

Deckhand Jamie Fourie

Hailing from the stunning coastline of South Africa, Jamey combines a natural love for the ocean with a calm, professional approach. With one year of hands-on experience in the yachting industry and a background as a certified dive instructor, Jamey plays a key role in ensuring both the vessel and guests are in great hands.

Known for being friendly, caring, and highly safety-oriented, Jamey thrives in guest-facing roles and is always ready to assist with water activities, tender operations, and deck duties. His calm presence and passion for the ocean helps to create a welcoming atmosphere onboard, whether guests are diving beneath the waves or relaxing above them.

With a strong work ethic and a genuine love for life at sea, Jamey is a valued part of any crew—dedicated to delivering memorable and secure charter experiences.



Chief Stewardess Hazel Gallagher (rotational)

Hazel brings over 15 years of experience in the yachting industry, complemented by four years as a flight attendant, giving her a strong background in hospitality, travel, and exceptional guest service. She also spent two years owning and operating a sushi bar, where she developed her passion for food, entertaining, and bringing people together.

Friendly, attentive, and highly safety-conscious, Hazel takes pride in putting guests first and ensuring everyone feels comfortable, relaxed, and well cared for. She loves meeting new people, exploring new destinations, and creating memorable experiences for everyone on board.

With her diverse experience and genuine passion for hospitality, Hazel looks forward to making every guest's time on board truly special.



Chief Stewardess Lia Winterbach (rotational)

Hailing from the beautiful wine country of Stellenbosch, South Africa, Lia knows a thing or two about fine wine, good food, and exceptional hospitality!

After graduating from university, her love for travel and adventure led her to the world of yachting. Since then, she’s swapped vineyards for ocean views, working aboard private and charter yachts ranging from 100 to 200 feet, all while exploring incredible destinations and cultures around the globe.

But Lia isn’t all champagne and silver service! A true outdoors enthusiast at heart, she spent a few years back home building her very own off-grid cabin on South Africa’s breathtaking Wild Coast. With dreams of one day having her own homestead, she’s just as comfortable embracing the simple life as she is delivering five-star luxury.

When she’s not creating memorable guest experiences, you’ll likely find her hiking, practising yoga, exploring nature, or discovering her next favourite dish.

Alongside the Second Stewardess, Lia looks forward to welcoming guests aboard Memento Vivere, where her warm South African hospitality, attention to detail, and love for creating special moments will help make every charter one to remember!

Second Stewardess Minette Van Zyl

Minette grew up in South Africa with a farm background, which shaped her into a grounded and reliable person with a positive outlook on life. After completing her HR degree, she decided to pursue a career in yachting in 2023, motivated by her desire to see more of the world while doing something she truly loves.

Easygoing and quick to adapt, Minette enjoys being part of a busy charter environment where every day brings something new. She loves contributing to the guest experience in both the little and big ways, from making sure everything is beautifully prepared to being present with guests and ensuring they feel relaxed, comfortable, and well taken care of throughout their time onboard.

Outside of work, Minette has always had a passion for dancing when being part of her university dance team. In her free time, she enjoys staying active through cycling, a good Pilates session and playfully admits that she is always up for a karaoke moment to keep the fun and smiles going.

Minette brings warm energy, a genuine smile and a positive attitude to life onboard. She values teamwork, enjoys learning from those around her and takes pride in contributing to a smooth, enjoyable experience for guests.




Chef Gordon Logan

Gordon was born in Johannesburg, where his love for food started the way most South Africans’ do—around a fire, armed with wood, charcoal, and an unshakable dedication to the sacred art of the “Braai.”.

With over 12 years of professional experience, Gordon has cooked everywhere - from Michelin-starred restaurants to luxury yachts, always striving for excellence and never settling for “just good enough” and making sure no plate leaves his galley without a little love and a lot of flavor.

His love for food runs deep rooted in his family traditions of fly-fishing and foraging in the Drakensberg mountains. Now working as a yacht chef, he’s taken his skill to the high seas, proving that gourmet food and ocean views are the perfect pairing.

For Gordon, cooking isn’t just a job - its a passion, a calling, and, lets be honest, the best excuse to play with fire (safely, of course).