Captain: Andy Grocott

I apprenticed and served on Tall Ships before moving to Yachts eleven years ago. A keen sailor, I grew up rowing and sailing on the lakes and harbours of New Zealand.  I enjoy the adventure, challenges and the responsibilities of commanding a large yacht and have a depth of experience having sailed in many of the worlds yachting destinations.  I joined VvS1 part of the way through the build and gained a thorough knowledge of the vessel during this time.  I look forward to welcoming you on board VvS1 some time in the future.

Chef:  Gina Finlay

Growing up in Auckland, NZ, I went straight into Culinary Training after completing Secondary School. Having always had a passion for cooking I knew at a young age I would become a Chef. I gained invaluable experience from working in some of the best Hotels, Resorts and Lodges in NZ. My love for travel got me into the Yachting Industry four years ago, where I have enjoyed developing new skills in many different Cuisines. I look forward to new adventures with you, onboard VvS1 in the South Pacific.

Engineer: Cliff Hart

I trained as an engineer with a diesel engine manufacturer in the UK, and later read for a degree in Marine Science. Since then I have enjoyed a combination of these fields, joining my first yacht 20 years ago in Tahiti, and have since sailed around the word a couple of times. When I based myself in New Zealand I began working on square rigged vessels as mate and as engineer (which was when I first worked with Andy) and in more recent times was employed by NIWA (the NZ National Institute for Water and Atmospheric Research) in coastal science. I enjoy a variety of ocean based sports including kayaking, diving, sailing and surfing incredibly badly.

Chief Stew:  Margy Swainson

I have been working on yachts for the last four years and have found a great way to combine my passion for hospitality service with travel. I have spent time in the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Pacific. I grew up in Auckland, New Zealand and love being based in the South Pacific. I thoroughly enjoy being in the ocean, diving and snorkelling, and have a strong interest in photography. Along with the other crew, I hope to enhance your trip on VvS1 and help to make it a very memorable experience.

First Mate: Matt Twiss

Hi, I’m from Mt. Maunganui, New Zealand where I was involved with Surf Lifesaving.
I taught Scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland, Australia, before venturing into Yachting five years ago in the US and Europe.  The opportunity to work in the South Pacific and being closer to home has brought me to VvS1 where I look forward to sharing true experiences in this great region of the world.

Second Stew:  Amara Hochberg

I joined VvS1 as I have always had a strong passion for travel as well as meeting new people and friends to compliment my life. Yachting allows for these great opportunities as well as extending my skills in hospitality. I grew up in New Zealand and moved to Australia after finishing school as my first destination before travelling further abroad to pursue my interests in travel, history and fashion. I now look forward to spending time around the pacific, which is close to home while working with the amicable crew on VvS1.