Moon Shadow

With over 11 years of professional yachting experience, our captain brings a wealth of knowledge, confidence, and passion to every voyage. Beginning his career in boat building and design before moving into professional sailing, he has completed two Atlantic crossings, navigated the South African coastline, and spent the past six seasons exploring the breathtaking waters of the British Virgin Islands and the Caribbean.

For him, yachting is about far more than reaching a destination—it’s about creating unforgettable moments. Whether discovering secluded anchorages, sharing hidden gems, or watching the sun set over the horizon, every journey is an opportunity to reconnect with nature and experience the freedom of life at sea.

Passionate about the ocean, wildlife, and bringing people together, he believes the greatest luxury isn’t something you can buy—it’s the memories made, the connections formed, and the moments that stay with you long after the voyage ends.

Guests can expect a professional, safe, and seamless experience, paired with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home. He believes that while destinations are beautiful, it is the people you share the journey with who truly make an experience unforgettable. After all, home isn’t always a place—it’s the people you’re with and the memories you create together.

• USCG 100 Ton Master
• PADI Dive Instructor
• Small Powerboat and Rib Master
• Wine Spirit Education Trust, Level 2

Originally from Southern California, I’ve built my career around creating memorable experiences that bring people together. My background spans event production, yachting, culinary arts, travel, and hospitality.

At 20, I produced my first large-scale fashion event for more than 500 guests, managing sponsorships, vendors, staging, media, and guest experience. That experience sparked my passion for turning ideas into thoughtfully planned, seamless experiences.

For the past five years, I’ve worked as a Yacht Chef aboard private and charter yachts throughout the Caribbean, Pacific, and Mediterranean. Having traveled to more than 50 countries, I draw inspiration from local cultures, markets, and ingredients.

I hold a USCG 100-Ton Captain’s License, am a PADI Dive Instructor, and a certified Yoga Teacher. These experiences have shaped me into an adaptable, resourceful, and highly organized professional with a strong focus on hospitality and guest experience.

I’m passionate about refined cuisine, thoughtful service, and creating systems that allow every detail—from provisioning and menu development to galley management and service—to run seamlessly.

First Mate and Engineer Juan Groenewald brings a decade of maritime experience and a strong technical background to Arctic Moon. Born in South Africa, Juan has worked extensively in the Caribbean, developing expertise in vessel operations, engineering systems, and guest-focused service. Holding certifications in STCW, PADI Divemaster, freediving, and commercial diving, along with RYA Powerboat Level 2, he combines seamanship with specialized technical and diving skills.

Juan’s career includes serving as a lead marine technician and commercial diver in the BVI, where he was responsible for fleet maintenance across 25 yachts. His work covered mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, as well as underwater inspections, emergency repairs, and system upgrades. He has also worked as a first mate, a commercial diver, and a fisheries observer, giving him a broad base of operational knowledge both above and below the waterline.

Energetic and adventurous by nature, Juan thrives in active, team-oriented environments and excels in guest interaction. Whether assisting with watersports, maintaining engineering systems, or ensuring the deck is guest-ready, he brings a positive attitude and meticulous attention to detail. His technical expertise and love of the ocean make him a reliable and engaging presence aboard Arctic Moon, ensuring safe operations and unforgettable guest experiences.