Captain - Nohan Carsten

With over 100,000 nautical miles sailed and 12 trans-Atlantic crossings completed, Captain Nohan brings world-class experience, calm leadership, and a genuine passion for the sea to every voyage aboard C’est la Vie.

Born and raised in the Western Cape of South Africa, Nohan has spent his life drawn to the ocean. His extensive career spans both private vessels and luxury charter yachts, with many years operating in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. He has built a strong reputation for delivering safe, relaxed, and truly memorable experiences for guests from around the world.

Captain Nohan was previously a term-charter captain in the BVI from 2014-2017, and he is excited to have the opportunity to return to the BVI aboard C’est La Vie. Captain Nohan’s deep knowledge of Caribbean waters, combined with his global blue-water expertise, allows him to craft perfect itineraries tailored to every guest’s wishes. Whether exploring hidden coves, island-hopping through the Virgin Islands, or finding the best anchorages for swimming and snorkelling, he ensures every day is special.

An enthusiastic waterman at heart, Nohan loves diving, fishing, kitesurfing, paragliding, and sailing. He takes great pleasure in sharing these passions with guests. Above all, Captain Nohan is committed to the highest standards of seamanship, safety, and warm South African hospitality. He believes the best charters are those where guests feel completely at home, well cared for, and free to create the memories they desire.

Captain Nohan looks forward to welcoming you aboard and sharing his love for the ocean in the BVI, one of the world’s most beautiful cruising grounds!

Chef - Nicholas Van der Merwe

Through many years in the culinary industry, Chef Nicolas Van Der Merwe has built his career around adaptability, creativity, and delivering exceptional guest experiences in demanding environments. Born and raised in Namibia, Nicolas grew up surrounded by adventure, spending much of his childhood camping and travelling across Southern Africa with his family. These experiences fostered his love for travel, nature, culture, and the strong sense of hospitality and community that Namibia is known for today.

His background spans luxury lodges, private estates, and charter programs, where he has developed a strong reputation for refined cuisine, calm professionalism, and thriving under pressure. Nicolas has worked extensively with high-net-worth clients, including French owners, where he further deepened his culinary skills through French cuisine while also drawing inspiration from Mediterranean and African flavours shaped by his travels and experiences throughout Europe and Southern Africa.

Over the last two seasons, Nicolas has transitioned into the yachting industry and discovered his true calling! Passionate about the ocean, travel, and culture, he thrives in the fast-paced yacht environment and enjoys creating memorable dining experiences that elevate every journey for guests and crew alike.

Stewardess - Demi Rose

Hi, my name is Demi, and I’m so excited to welcome you onboard Yacht C’est La Vie!

My passion is creating a warm, relaxed atmosphere through attentive service that makes every guest feel comfortable, cared for, and truly at home at sea. I love helping create unforgettable experiences, whether it’s through thoughtful details, positive energy, or simply making each day onboard feel effortless and special.

I’m also a qualified lifestyle, fitness, and nutrition coach with a passion for encouraging others to become stronger, healthier, and more confident while living balanced, fulfilling lives. I genuinely enjoy connecting with people, meeting new faces, and helping others feel their best.

One of the things I love most about yachting is the opportunity to explore beautiful places, experience different cultures, and continuously learn and grow through new experiences. The ocean has always brought me a deep sense of peace — from the sound of the waves to breathtaking sunsets at sea, it’s where I feel calm, grounded, and inspired.

I would describe myself as friendly, positive, sparkling, and deeply caring, and I always aim to bring warmth and good energy to those around me. I look forward to welcoming you onboard C’est La Vie and helping create a truly memorable and unforgettable experience for you!