THE CREW
Meet the Team That Will Make Your Gladiator Charter Experience
One to Remember
The Gladiator crew are hand-selected not only according to their experience and knowledge but also for their eclectic and fun-loving personalities. Together they create an onboard atmosphere of camaraderie, positivity and professionalism. Their priority is to provide every guest with a one-of-a-kind experience, whilst ensuring their safety and comfort at all times. Read on to learn more about the outstanding Gladiator crew.
“It was very difficult to wake up this morning and not to see the Gladiator crew. We had the most wonderful week. Thank you for all you do.”
Charter Guest – September 2019
Rotational Captain: Brad Armstrong
Raised in a small South African town, Brad’s early years were spent around the water, with fishing, boating and water sports playing a central role in family life. In 2012, Brad transitioned from a career in hospitality to yachting, seeking adventure and a chance to see the world. Since then, Brad has risen through the ranks to Captain, gaining vast experience cruising the Indian, Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, as well as the Arabian Sea. Having worked on high-profile charter and private yachts ranging from 45 to 80 meters, he has honed a leadership style rooted in professionalism, calm under pressure and a strong focus on safety and guest satisfaction.
Brad combines his seafaring knowledge with over 20 years in the hospitality industry and a formal qualification in Hotel Management, allowing him to deliver exceptional onboard experiences while running an efficient operation.
Happiest When: Road cycling through Europe or teeing off on the golf course.
Languages: English
Rotational Captain: John-Henry Davis
Growing up in South Africa, the outdoors and adventure were always a big part of John-Henry’s life. He began his yachting career at the end of 2010, originally intending to stay in the industry for only a year or two. However, he quickly fell in love with the lifestyle, the people and the opportunities to explore the world.
Since then, John-Henry has sailed extensively aboard a diverse range of yachts, including vessels operating in some of the world’s more remote cruising destinations. His experience is particularly extensive across the Bahamas and Caribbean.
Away from yachting, John-Henry enjoys motocross, mountain biking, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, scuba diving and overlanding. He particularly values spending quality time with his family.
Happiest When: Riding his bikes or spending time with his family.
Languages: English, Afrikaans, Basic Spanish
Rotational Chief Engineer: Ricardo Negri
Ricardo hails from South Africa and calls many different parts of the country his home. He attended university in Cape Town where he graduated with a BSc in Mechanical engineering in 2011.
With an appetite for adventure, Ricardo headed to the Caribbean where he quickly landed an engineering job on a luxury sailing yacht. Ten years later, he has experience working on various sailing and motor yachts of all sizes and now holds his Y1 Certificate of Competency from Warsash University, the highest qualification a yachting engineer can obtain. Ricardo has been Chief Engineer on Gladiator since 2018 and ensures the smooth running of all systems during your charter.
Ricardo has a passion for sport (particularly golf) and the outdoors, along with his great interest in how things work, which initially drove him to becoming an engineer.
Happiest When: On the golf course or camping in the wild.
Languages: English, Afrikaans
Rotational Chief Engineer: Ryan
Ryan began his yachting career in 2009, entering the industry alongside his twin brother, who fittingly went on to become captain of this very vessel some years ago. Starting out on deck, Ryan quickly discovered a strong interest in the technical side of operations and was given the opportunity to spend time in the engine room, an experience that ultimately shaped his career path.
Over the past 15 years, Ryan has built extensive experience across a range of vessels, steadily progressing through the ranks while earning his engineering qualifications. His hands-on approach, combined with a deep understanding of onboard systems, ensures the yacht runs safely, efficiently and to the highest standard.
Outside of work, Ryan leads a highly active lifestyle. With a strong sporting background, he enjoys a variety of water and contact sports, including boxing. While previously an avid runner, he has more recently shifted his focus to cycling, competing in several races. Regular gym sessions are an important part of his routine, providing both physical balance and a mental reset after demanding days on board.
Happiest When: There are no engineering alarms on board.
Languages: English
Chief Officer: Pierce Hoffman
Originally from Zimbabwe, Pierce brings over 18 years of experience on private and charter yachts to his role on Gladiator. Having cruised extensively across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans, he offers strong navigational and operational expertise alongside a calm, assured presence on board.
Passionate about the guest experience, Pierce leads watersports and tender excursions with ease, shaping seamless days on the water that range from relaxed beach setups to high-energy adventures. Professional, personable and steady under pressure, he is dedicated to delivering exceptional service and ensuring every charter runs smoothly.
Happiest When: Outdoors and on the water, either kitesurfing, hiking or running, he also knows his way around a golf course.
Languages: English
Chief Stewardess: Nadine Van Niekerk
Born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa, Nadine developed a lifelong appreciation for nature, animals and the outdoors. Ambitious and independent from a young age, she began her yachting career shortly after completing school and has since built a strong reputation for her professionalism, dedication and warm approach to guest service. Now based in Italy, Nadine has cultivated a deep appreciation for the country’s culture, cuisine, wine and way of life.
Nadine’s approachable nature, positive attitude and strong work ethic allow her to build meaningful connections with both guests and crew, contributing to a harmonious and high-performing onboard environment. Nadine believes that kindness, humility, and a proactive mindset are the foundations of outstanding service and successful teamwork.
Happiest When: Spending quality time with family and friends, travelling and discovering new destinations and cultures.
Languages: English, Afrikaans & Italian
Rotational Chef: David Bouillon
David was Born in Brittany, North West of France, and grew up near his grandparents’ farm and butchery.
He discovered his passion for cooking as a kid in his uncle’s restaurant during family holidays in the South of France. Upon completion of his culinary studies in Britany, he furthered his skills working in restaurants across the globe – from Paris to Courchevel, England to the Caribbean.
Since joining the Yachting industry in 2004, David has travelled the seas extensively and has been motivated to continue training and discovering new techniques. He has since completed courses through Alain Ducasse Education and the Michel Guerard Health cooking school.
Happiest When: Sharing good times around delicious meal and discovering local specialties.
Languages: French, English, Spanish
Rotational Chef: Sean Ballington
At the age of 14, Sean discovered he had a flair for cooking during domestic science/cookery classes. This pointed him in the direction of catering college. At the age of 16, Sean enrolled in a two-year professional catering course in what, at the time, was considered to be one of the best catering colleges in the UK, “High Peak Catering College”. Sean enjoyed this time and was lucky to have the benefit of working with great tutors who taught him the basics and helped him progress on the back of that great start.
Sean’s background is in fine dining country house hotels across the UK which is classed as modern British, but Sean loves trying all types of world cuisine. He feels lucky that during his time working on yachts he has had the opportunity to travel around the world.
Happiest When: Exploring world-class cuisines
Languages: English
Chase Boat Captain: Max Allen
Born and raised in the mountains of western Sydney, Max grew up on the Hawkesbury river surrounded by nature. He kept himself busy participating in a number of sports, including rugby, soccer and swimming.
Upon finishing school, Max moved to Sydney city where he found his first job on the water working for the Fast Ferries. His new passion for the ocean life quickly saw him making the jump to the superyacht industry. Following his first season on board yachts, Max moved to Spain to continue pursuing his newfound career.
Max has now decided to specialise in the chase boat captain role as he enjoys taking responsibility of a vessel and the challenges that are involved.
Happiest When: On the water or out in nature with good friends.
Languages: English, Spanish
Bosun: Dean Yeld
Dean grew up in the northern part of South Africa on the beautiful East Coast near the Mozambique border. Coming from a family boat building business, Dean has a natural passion for boats and the sea, making yachting a natural calling. Dean has a massive passion for repairs and fixing all things and a love for hands-on jobs.
Dean has spent his time working on a variety of superyachts, travelling to beautiful places and diving in the most amazing waters.
When at home, you will find Dean spearfishing, underwater, diving and catching fish, playing his guitar or enjoying a spot of golf.
Happiest When: Embracing the wonders of the underwater world.
Languages: English, Afrikaans
2nd Stewardess: Tarryn Edgar
Tarryn hails from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, where she grew up on a sugar cane plantation. With a deep interest in organisation and coordination, she pursued a three-year program in Event Coordination at Stellenbosch, followed by a BCom in Marketing & Business Science. During her studies, Tarryn embraced the opportunity to work as an au pair for two children, an experience that deepened her love for nurturing and caregiving. In 2023, she transitioned into the yachting industry and has since completed an enriching tour around the Mediterranean. Her diverse skill set, combined with her enthusiasm for travel and the outdoors, makes her a dynamic and valuable asset to the Gladiator crew.
Happiest When: Spending time with her family and designing intricate floral arrangements, any opportunity to let her creative light shine!
Languages: English
3rd Stewardess: Hayley Engler
Hayley comes from Port Elizabeth, South Africa, where she grew up with a love for the outdoors, hospitality and working with people. She is friendly, outgoing, and highly motivated.
At the end of 2025, Hayley made the exciting transition into the yachting industry and has since been building her experience in the Mediterranean. Her background in hospitality, combined with her positive attitude and eagerness to learn, has allowed her to adapt quickly to life onboard.
Hayley thrives in fast-paced environments and enjoys being part of a close-knit team. Her enthusiasm, professionalism and genuine passion for taking care of clients make her a valued member of any crew.
Happiest When: Travelling, hiking and keeping fit, wakeboarding, reading and meeting new people.
Languages: English
Deckhand: Tristan Leach
Tristan grew up in South Africa, in a town called Harrismith. Tristan tends to find himself immersed in the farming life and exploring the bush, fostering a deep connection with nature. Passionate about the ocean, he enjoys deep sea fishing, diving and boating, always seeking adventure on the open water. Tristan has an enthusiasm for repairing all things mechanical and any jobs that are hands on.
When at home you will find Tristan either on the farm, on his fishing boat or enjoying a round of golf.
Happiest When: Exploring or diving in new waters and any new challenges.
Languages: English and Afrikaans
Deckhand: Jack Shooter
Originally from Durban, South Africa, Jack is the youngest member of the crew and brings an energetic, positive, and adventurous spirit to life onboard. Growing up surrounded by the ocean, Jack has developed a deep passion for the water through competitive deep sea fishing, professional canoeing, surfing and spearfishing.
Jack’s time working in Antarctica has strengthened his resillience, adaptability, and ability to remain calm and focused in demanding environments. He enjoys being hands-on, working as part of a team, and taking pride in everything he does, while his friendly and approachable personality makes him naturally suited to working with guests.
Happiest When: In, on, or around water.
Languages: English
PLAN MY CHARTER
Get in touch with your preferred yacht charter broker today to start planning your bespoke Gladiator yacht charter.
