Captain: Warren "Waz" Techow
Nationality: South African
Languages: English
Certifications: Master 200, STCW 95, ENG 1, PADI Open Water, AEC 1, RIB Master, Security Awareness
Born and raised in the coastal town of Sedgefield, South Africa, Captain Warren “Waz” Techow has always had a
strong connection to the ocean and an adventurous spirit. From a young age, he was passionate about water sports
like surfing and sailing, while also enjoying the challenge of racing dirt bikes and working on engines. After finishing
school, he spent time living in Scotland, England, and the United States, where he served as a wakeboard and
waterski instructor at summer camps in Michigan. These experiences laid the foundation for his dynamic and guest
focused approach to yachting. Since entering the industry in 2009, he has steadily progressed through the ranks
from deckhand to captain.
Now at the helm of M/Y BIRDY, he leads with a calm confidence and a deep understanding of what makes a charter
truly exceptional. With over a decade of experience on yachts ranging from 40 to 170 feet such as M/Y IT AIN’T EASY,
M/Y NO RUSH and M/Y DARLIN’, he brings a wealth of knowledge and versatility. Warren takes great pride in
assembling and leading a crew that is not only highly skilled but also passionate about creating a seamless and
memorable guest experience. He believes the crew is the heart of every great charter and plays a vital role in
transforming an ordinary trip into something truly special.
When not on duty, he stays active through kiteboarding, pickleball, surfski paddling, obstacle course racing, and
stand-up paddle boarding. He is also a keen traveler and avid reader who loves discovering new places and cultures.
His personal motto, “Always move forward, stay in motion,” speaks to his commitment to growth, exploration, and
living life with purpose. He is easygoing, values meaningful conversations, and brings a thoughtful, positive energy to
everyone he works with. Under his leadership, guests can expect an elevated, unforgettable charter experience filled
with fun, comfort, and lasting memories.
Mate: Cameron Green
Nationality: South African
Languages: English
Cameron is a Cape Town native, who grew up immersed in watersports thanks to his parents, both professional water
skiers. As a competitive stand-up paddleboarder when he was in high school, he eventually made his way into the
yachting industry.
With a degree in Graphic Design from Pearson University and a 200GT captain’s license, he combines his passions for
photography, videography, and watersports to create memorable guest experiences. Cameron has worked aboard
vessels including M/Y LAUREL, M/Y NO BAD IDEAS, M/Y CALLIOPE and now a the First Mate on M/Y BIRDY.
Known for his calm, friendly demeanor, Cam’s expert coaching and love for capturing moments on camera make him
a favorite among guests and crew.
When not on the water, he enjoys golfing, hiking, and capturing life through his lens.
Engineer: Ivan Randall
Nationality: South African
Languages: English
Ivan Randall grew up in Johannesburg, South Africa, in a family that valued sports, mechanics, and hard work.
Weekends spent boating and wakeboarding sparked his lifelong love for the water, while hands-on time with his
father ignited a deep passion for mechanics.
He began his career at Audi, where he quickly rose through the ranks from apprentice to award-winning diagnostic
technician. Expanding his expertise, Ivan later worked with heavy equipment, further refining his technical abilities. His
journey eventually led him to the yachting industry, a natural fit that allowed him to combine his engineering
background with his love for the water.
Ivan has since contributed his skills and dedication aboard several yachts, including M/Y VALINOR, M/Y VIVI RAE, and
M/Y CALLIOPE. Known for his strong work ethic, focus on safety and efficiency, and easygoing, personable nature, he’s
a valued team member on any vessel.
Outside of engineering, Ivan is an avid outdoorsman. He enjoys water sports, fishing, camping, and motorsports, and
maintains an active lifestyle through running and cycling.
Chef: Monja Jacobs
Nationality: South African
Languages: English
Monja grew up in Northeast South Africa in a town called Nelspruit, on the border of the Kurger National Park. Her
childhood circled around nature & wildlife, as she spent her winters enjoying safaris and summers on the Mozambican
coast.
After grade school, Monja moved to the Western Cape of SA and attended the University of Stellenbosch for law and
accounting. It was there where she developed a greater passion for the outdoors, arts and gastronomy. After
successfully procuring her Bachelor's degree-she set her eyes on finding a career that suited her personality and
aligned with her passions. The world of yachting had caught her eye.
Monja started yachting as a sous chef, learning under some of the best charter chefs in the industry. Throughout her
many years cooking on yachts, Monja has developed a refined, artistic and fresh cooking style. She has taken various
intensive culinary courses and has a true passion for Asian and Mediterranean cuisine. Monja's attention to detail and
ability to use the freshest ingredients in all areas of the world, ensures each meal to be filled with flavor, delight, and
appreciation. She previously cooked on yachts such as M/Y NAMASTE, M/Y VIVACE, M/Y SKYFALL and currently
onboard M/Y BIRDY. Her calm and collected persona make her an advantageous crew member.
Her interests and hobbies include hiking through scenic trails, getting creative with various arts and crafts projects,
taking part in exciting adventure activities, and exploring local fare to experience new and unique flavors from
different cultures and communities.
Stewardess: Abby Rodrigues
Nationality: South African
Languages: English
Abby has always been drawn to people, experiences, and creativity, qualities that now define the way she welcomes
and interact with guests. With a professional background in marketing and brand strategy, Abby is adept at
coordinating with suppliers, managing events, and adding a unique creative flair to design. These versatile skills have
transferred naturally into the fast-paced and often unpredictable world of yachting, where she blends professionalism
with a warm, personal touch.
She has worked on yachts ranging from 115’ to 236' including M/Y ENTOURAGE, M/Y FATHOM, M/Y LADY MARINA, M/Y
TORTOISE and M/Y MARTHA-ANN, chartering across the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and the U.S. East Coast.
Alongside her yachting career, Abby is also a certified health coach, bringing her passion for wellness into every aspect
of her work. Her commitment to health and well-being is reflected in her daily routines and her interactions with both
crew and guests. Guests appreciate her adaptable nature, warm demeanor, and genuine enthusiasm for creating
unforgettable experiences on board.
Outside of yachting, Abby’s interests include wellness and strength training, watersports, golf, and exploring new
travel destinations and cultural experiences.
