Nation: South African

Captain: Kris "Kristofor" Ephraimson
Nationality: USA
Languages: English

Captain Kris brings a wealth of maritime expertise and a deep passion for yachting to M/Y Beachfront. With a 200-ton USCG Master License, STCW, HELM, Radar Observer Unlimited, AEC Engineering Certification, and PADI Divemaster, he ensures that every charter is seamless, safe, and unforgettable. His hands-on leadership and adaptability make him a vital part of the onboard experience.

Born and raised in Newport/Little Compton, Rhode Island, Kris grew up in a close-knit family alongside his older sister. Surrounded by the ocean, he developed a love for boating at an early age. His childhood was filled with adventure, whether traveling, sailing, skiing, or golfing. His parents encouraged him to explore a variety of sports, and he spent years competing on a traveling swim team, playing golf, and enjoying winters on the slopes.

Kris’s fascination with yachts started early, inspired by the stunning vessels docked in Newport. As a child, he would sketch boats, dreaming of a future on the water. In 2003, he took his first professional step into yachting after earning his Scuba Dive Instructor certification. He soon found work on a liveaboard sailing yacht, traveling with guests and experiencing life at sea full-time.

His career progressed quickly as he worked as an engineer on a high-demand charter yacht in the Bahamas, gaining valuable technical expertise. Later, he transitioned to an owner’s program based in Nassau, completing over 15 Exumas trips annually—an experience that solidified his love for these pristine cruising grounds.

Over the years, Kris has served on a variety of prestigious yachts, including Comanche, Scott Free, Patriot, Freedom, Summer Splendor, Sea Dreams, Khaleesi, and One Love. Now at the helm of M/Y Beachfront, he leads with a hands-on approach, ensuring smooth operations while fostering a dynamic and professional onboard atmosphere. He prides himself on his ability to adapt to any role necessary to enhance the guest experience and support his crew.

Kris has extensive cruising experience along the U.S. East Coast, from Florida to Massachusetts, enjoying the challenge of planning and executing seamless voyages. He has also spent years in the Caribbean, USVI, and BVI, but his heart lies in the Exumas—his favorite charter destination. With its crystal-clear waters, incredible fishing, and endless activities, the Exumas provide the perfect playground for adventure and relaxation.

When not on the water, Kris finds joy in Colorado, where he embraces the seasons, stunning landscapes, and outdoor adventures. Whether hiking, skiing, motorcycling, or exploring rivers, he thrives on the energy of the outdoors.

Currently working toward a larger captain’s license, Kris aspires to command a 180’-200’ yacht in the near future. Beyond yachting, he envisions running his own business, using his leadership and problem-solving skills to build something meaningful.

For Kris, the perfect charter isn’t just about luxury—it’s about creating unforgettable moments. His goal is for guests to leave M/Y Beachfront with lifelong memories, feeling that they’ve just experienced their best vacation yet.

A true outdoor enthusiast, Kris enjoys motorcycling, skiing, hiking, swimming, and golf. Always eager to share his skills, he thrives on teaching and ensuring that every day—whether on land or sea—is filled with adventure and discovery.

He lives by the belief that if you can’t stop thinking about something, you shouldn’t stop working for it. Whether navigating a yacht, leading a team, or chasing new challenges, Kris pursues every endeavor with passion and purpose.





Chief steward/ess: Jessica Seward
Nationality: American
Languages: English

Jess was born and raised in Florida, with British and Canadian roots. She went to Wesleyan University where she studied Film Studies and Creative Writing. After graduating college, Jess moved across the world to work for a start up in China making it her first and last office job. She then spent five years traveling and working in hospitality around the world, including Southeast Asia, Australia and Latin America. She met several yachties along the way and was intrigued by the lifestyle. Ironically, yachting brought her back to Florida and closer to home than she’d been in almost ten years. She’s been in the industry for over four years now and enjoys being able to provide a wonderful experience for the guests. Jess enjoys tossing a frisbee on the beach, sailing and diving in her free time.


Stewardess: Paola Alejandra Dorantes Vasquez
Nationality: Mexican
Languages: English, Spanish

Paola began her yachting career in 2007, bringing a wealth of expertise gained from 18 years of experience in
bartending, fine dining, and hospitality. With her diverse background and dedication to excellence, she is confident in
providing professional, efficient, and hospitable service to owners, guests, and crew alike.
Known for her motivation, hard work, and organizational skills, Paola is a positive influence on any team she joins. She
takes pride in creating a welcoming and luxurious atmosphere onboard, ensuring that every guest's experience is
seamless and unforgettable.
When she’s not busy delivering exceptional service, Paola enjoys Pilates, yoga, sightseeing, and exploring the culinary
arts.



Chef: Joe Richard
Nationality: American
Languages: English

Education/Certifications: Bachelors Degree of History – University of Florida, Culinary Institute of Bologna, Italy
Languages: English, Conversational Spanish and Italian

Chef Joe Richard grew up on the coast of East Texas, hunting and fishing with his older brother and father, before moving to North Florida. He started working for restaurants at the age of 19, beginning as a dishwasher. As a teenager, Joe began spending his summers working at a small winery in Tuscany which led him to develop a lifelong passion for great food and wine. Joe was working as a chef in Miami Beach before he turned to yachting and hasn’t looked back since. He specializes in Mediterranean fare but also loves the cuisines of both North and South America. Joe will go above and beyond to ensure every guest dietary requirement is fulfilled and every palate is satisfied.
When Joe is not busy providing amazing food, he enjoys going to a good jazz club in New Orleans, wandering through food markets in foreign countries, wine tastings, and collecting Japanese chef knives. One day, he aspires to open his own restaurant. Chef Joe wants every guest on board BEACHFRONT to feel as if they’re staying with an old friend who offers unforgettable hospitality.


First Mate: Ruan De villiers
Nationality: South African
Languages: Afrikaans, English


Born and raised in the Kalahari region of South Africa, Ruan grew up alongside his twin brothers before relocating to the United States, where he completed his education. From a young age, he excelled in golf, starting at just three years old under the guidance of his father. By age 12, he was ranked among the top 20 junior golfers in South Africa, winning the SA National Championship and qualifying for international junior tours in Malaysia and Australia.

Following in the footsteps of his father and brothers, Ruan entered the yachting industry at 14, learning the ropes before officially pursuing it as a career after high school. He completed his STCW and ENG certifications and is currently finishing his GED through Southern New Hampshire University. With two years of charter yacht experience, he has worked aboard Sweet Debbie, Absolutely (100’ Ocean Alexander), Tatami (110’ Mangusta), Spirit (115’ New Zealand Yacht), and Dream On (110’ Mangusta) before stepping into his current role as Mate on Beachfront.

Ruan brings a strong work ethic, versatility, and an easygoing personality to the team. Having gained experience in both interior and exterior roles, he prides himself on being a well-rounded crew member, always ready to lend a hand. He has cruised extensively through the Bahamas and Exumas, with Compass Cay standing out as his favorite charter destination for its stunning beaches.

Beyond yachting, Ruan’s greatest passion is golf, where he still competes in tournaments. His other hobbies include woodworking, snowboarding, watersports, fitness, car restoration, and playing drums professionally. Despite spending most of his time at sea, his favorite place on Earth is the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, specifically Breckenridge, where his family takes annual ski trips.

Ruan’s long-term goal in yachting is to build his qualifications and become a captain. Outside of the industry, he aspires to invest in real estate and help grow his family’s business. When it comes to charter guests, his mission is simple: to ensure they have the time of their lives, enjoying a stress-free, unforgettable vacation filled with adventure and relaxation.

His motto? "Start your day with determination and end it with success!"