SYNERGY

Captain - Jacob Beman

Captain Jacob grew up in Chicago before swapping cold winters for the sunshine of Southern California after college. It was there that he first fell in love with sailing and life on the water—and he’s been chasing that feeling ever since. After buying his own boat and getting involved with local race teams, Jacob quickly realized he wanted to turn his passion for sailing into a full-time career.

With a strong sense of adventure and a desire to keep learning, Jacob set off to explore the world by sea. He spent several seasons working in the Mediterranean and Australia, gaining valuable experience while sailing some of the world’s most beautiful waters. In 2018, he arrived in the Virgin Islands, and it didn’t take long for him to feel right at home.

For the past seven seasons, Jacob has captained yachts throughout the USVI and BVI—an area he loves sharing with guests for its laid-back island vibe, crystal-clear waters, and endless opportunities for adventure. For the last three years, he has been running M/Y Synergy, where he takes pride in creating relaxed, memorable charter experiences and welcoming guests aboard as if they were family. Jacob’s easygoing nature, local knowledge, and genuine love for what he does help ensure every trip is truly one to remember.

Chef - Ryan Neal

Ryan Neal is a chef who believes that great food onboard is as much about how it feels as how it tastes. Calm by nature and detail-driven, he brings a steady, grounded presence to the galley and takes pride in creating food that enhances the overall experience of life at sea.

He comes to the Caribbean after 20 years of working in restaurants and private villas throughout Canada and Australia.

Ryan’s cooking style is refined yet approachable, guided by strong fundamentals rather than ego. He enjoys tailoring menus to individual preferences, reading the mood of the day, and striking the right balance between relaxed, generous meals and elegant evening service. Dietary requirements, last-minute requests, and changing schedules are handled calmly and without fuss.

Personable without being intrusive, Ryan values clear communication, teamwork, and mutual respect onboard. He takes his responsibilities seriously but doesn’t take himself too seriously.

First Mate - Remi Leclezio

Remi grew up between Mauritius and South Africa, developing a lifelong connection to the ocean from an early age. A surfer since childhood, the sea has always been at the center of his life. He is an avid sailor and holds his RYA Yachtmaster certification.

Remi began his professional yachting career in the South of France in 2017 before moving to the Caribbean, where he has worked ever since. His experience spans roles as First Mate aboard a 90-foot motor yacht, as well as Captain for both term charters on catamarans and fast-boat day charters.

A certified PADI Divemaster, Remi has a deep passion for all things ocean. When he’s not working, you’ll find him surfing, shell hunting, or unwinding with a cold one among mates.

Stewardess - Michelle Barbuto

Growing up sailing in the British Virgin Islands with her parents, Michelle has spent much of her time on the water. The sea is her home and she’s always happy to teach the guests new skills aboard. She has completed over 6000 miles of offshore sailing between Europe, the Caribbean and the North East coast of the U.S.

Sailing in the Caribbean and motor yachting in the North East US contributed to her desire to work in the industry. She has completed 5 yachting seasons as a chef in the Virgin Islands, Bahamas and the Mediterranean. While she will always have a passion for cooking, she is excited for a new chapter as a Deckhand/Stew, bringing other skills to the table.

With a background in event planning, Michelle is proud to go above and beyond to enhance the experience her guests are looking for. She is excited to plan fun activities, themed dinners, cocktails and overall ambiance for her guests to make their holiday perfect.

Aside from sailing, Michelle is a certified free diver and yoga instructor. Teaching is her passion and she is thrilled to offer morning flows and meditations to the guests. Whether the students are new to their practice or looking for something more advanced, she is happy to create a class around what they desire to get out of their holiday. In her free time she enjoys her own practice, as well as travel; eating and drinking her way through new countries and cultures.