A-PLAN Yacht Charter

Captain: Ben Findley & Alex Homden

Rotational Captain Ben Findley - New Zealander
Captain Ben is a highly experienced yacht captain with over 25 years at sea, having commanded sailing yachts across some of the world’s most spectacular and demanding cruising grounds.

Originally from New Zealand, his extensive international career has earned him a reputation for exceptional seamanship, calm leadership, and impeccable guest service. With a meticulous eye for detail and a strong commitment to safety, Ben ensures every charter runs seamlessly while creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere on board. A passionate sailor, surfer, and marine photographer, he brings a unique adventurous spirit to the guest experience, crafting memorable, tailor-made journeys both on and off the water.


Rotational Captain Alex Homden - British
Captain Alex is an accomplished Captain/Engineer with over 55,000 nautical miles of experience and a strong background in the Royal Marines, bringing exceptional discipline, leadership, and technical expertise to life at sea. His career spans luxury charter operations, transatlantic passages, and competitive racing across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Atlantic. Most recently, Alex captained the Lagoon 77 MATY, overseeing crew management and full vessel operations for an extensive private family programme. His diverse experience also includes charter cruising in Greece, Atlantic deliveries, major regatta campaigns aboard the Southern Wind Farr 72 FAR II KIND, and valuable engineering experience as First Mate on the 33.6m motor yacht SPADA. Calm, capable, and highly versatile, Alex ensures a seamless onboard experience with both professionalism and precision.


Rotational Chef Pepe Faine - Spanish
Chef Pepe is a passionate and energetic culinary talent with an impressive background spanning fine dining, Michelin-starred kitchens, and private yacht service. Having worked aboard yachts in the Mediterranean over multiple seasons, including as private chef on YGO. in summer 2024 and YOLO in Ibiza in 2023, he brings valuable charter experience combined with a strong understanding of delivering personalised guest experiences at sea.

His land-based culinary career is equally distinguished, with positions including Executive Chef at Tribeca Bistro in Madrid and Head Chef at Casa 887 in Donosti. Pepe has also refined his craft in prestigious Michelin-starred kitchens, including Miramar (2 Michelin stars) and The Jane (2 Michelin stars) in Antwerp, alongside renowned restaurants such as L’Eggs by Paco Perez and Xerta in Barcelona.

Creative, detail-oriented, and deeply passionate about exceptional cuisine, Chef Pepe delivers refined, memorable dining experiences tailored to each guest’s tastes, combining technical excellence with warm Mediterranean flair.


Rotational Chef Donny Nel - South African
Chef Donny is a passionate and dynamic Chef with over seven years of experience, including extensive time at sea aboard luxury charter yachts. From 2021 to 2024, he worked with Tradewinds Charter across a fleet of luxury catamarans ranging from 52ft to 70ft, where he combined his role as Chef and First Mate, delivering exceptional guest dining experiences while also assisting with deck operations, safety procedures, provisioning, and full galley management.

His versatile yachting background has seen him work aboard multiple well-regarded charter catamarans, giving him strong experience in adapting to varied guest preferences and delivering high-quality cuisine in a fast-paced charter environment. Most recently, Donny served aboard the private yacht B3 as Chef/Stew, where he provided refined culinary service for both guests and crew while also maintaining impeccable interior standards.

With additional experience as a head chef and kitchen manager ashore, Donny brings creativity, organisation, and a warm, energetic approach to every charter, ensuring guests enjoy both memorable dining experiences and attentive service throughout their time on board.


Stewardess Chloe Codd - British
Chloé is a dedicated and enthusiastic stewardess with valuable experience across both private and charter yachts, bringing a strong eye for detail and a warm, guest-focused approach to life on board.

She has gained extensive interior and stewardess experience during a busy Ibiza season, delivering exceptional guest service while maintaining impeccable housekeeping standards.

Previously, Chloé worked aboard the 35m M/Y CABANA in a versatile dual role as Stewardess/Deckhand, supporting both interior operations and exterior duties. Alongside guest service, table settings, laundry, and housekeeping, she also assisted with line handling, fender work, stainless detailing, and passage preparation during a crossing from Turkey to Malta.

Having entered the yachting industry through daywork, Chloé has built her experience through dedication, adaptability, and a strong work ethic. Energetic, detail-oriented, and eager to deliver excellent service, she is a valuable asset in creating a welcoming onboard experience for guests.


Deckhand Cornelius Carrick - British
Cornelius is an experienced deckhand with an impressive background on both sailing and motor yachts up to 86 metres. Having cruised extensively throughout the Mediterranean and Caribbean, he brings a strong work ethic, exceptional attention to detail and a guest-focused approach to every charter.

A qualified Yachtmaster Offshore, Cornelius is highly skilled in tender operations, watersports activities and deck maintenance. His calm, friendly personality and professional attitude ensure guests enjoy a seamless and memorable experience on board.