Captain: David Cherrett
Nationality: British
Languages: English (fluent), Spanish (advanced), French & Greek (basic)
David is a seasoned and highly respected yacht Captain and Engineer with over 30 years of experience navigating the globe aboard sailing yachts, motor yachts, and catamarans. With more than 100,000 nautical miles logged and a wealth of charter, private, and shipyard experience, he brings an unparalleled depth of technical knowledge, leadership, and professionalism to OYA.
Known for his calm command and commitment to safety and quality, David has overseen numerous new builds, refits, and transoceanic deliveries. His expertise extends to solar and hybrid technology aboard eco-catamarans, advanced navigation, and engineering systems. Backed by decades of work alongside his wife Ruth, he is dedicated to ensuring every voyage is seamless, safe, and deeply enjoyable for guests and crew alike.
Chef: Ines Härström
Nationality: Swedish
Languages: Swedish & English (fluent), Norwegian, Spanish, Italian, Danish (basic)
Ines is a motivated and versatile Swedish chef with seven years of global hospitality experience and proven longevity across multiple charter seasons in Europe and the Caribbean. Growing up by the ocean, she developed an early passion for boating, watersports, and life at sea — a passion that naturally evolved into a career in yachting.
With hands-on experience across deck, interior, and galley roles, Ines brings a rare blend of seamanship, service excellence, and culinary skill. Her background includes charter work on sailing catamarans and monohulls, private yacht service aboard a 44m motor yacht, and high-volume hospitality roles on a 122m cruise vessel. She is known for her adaptability, strong work ethic, and commitment to creating memorable guest experiences in every environment.
Deckhand: Matthew Ballantyne
Nationality: Irish
Languages: English (fluent)
Matthew is a motivated and hands-on deckhand/engineer with a robust sailing background and technical expertise in mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems. Certified as an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore and AEC 1 & 2 Engineer, he brings a versatile skill set and youthful energy to OYA.
With experience on high-performance sailing yachts and extensive refit projects, he thrives under pressure and quickly adapts to challenges on board. Matthew’s racing credentials and watchkeeping experience make him a dependable crew member both on deck and below. Passionate, detail-oriented, and always ready to learn, he is a valuable asset to the OYA team.
