Growing up just outside London, Nik was captivated by the food scene that surrounded him. This led to him training as a chef and working in various roles within hospitality at some of the capital's most prestigious restaurants and hotels. Nik’s sailing career started in dinghies, sailing in lakes and braving the elements along the UK’s coast. As his passion developed so did his desire for a slightly warmer climate which led him to Greece and slightly bigger boats.
Whilst in Greece and the Med, Nik married his love for hospitality and sailing. Working as a flotilla skipper and charter skipper exposing him to an array of different yachts and destinations. Nik put his experience to good use training new sailors and running adventure cruises before leaving the Med.
Nik has a real love for the sea and the unique perspective that sailing gives. He is as much at home in the sea doing water sports as he is exploring the shores. You can expect him to uncover the local haunts for excursions ashore and dropping the hook in bays that provide the perfect backdrop for sunset cocktails, which he makes incredible ones. Nik is a seasoned Bahamas captain going on 3 years in this cruising ground.
Growing up close to London, Lily was born with a passion for cooking, influenced by both the chefs in her family and her travels around the world. She pursued a career as a private chef on yachts after completing her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Geographical Sciences (BSc) and Environmental Policy and Management (Msc) at the University of Bristol, in United Kingdom. Lily recently found the spotlight joining Captain Sandy and the Below Deck Med team when they needed a relief Stewardess in season 8.
Lily enjoys incorporating local ingredients and cultures into her dishes, as evidenced by her dishes that are heavily influenced by her travels to Mexico, Italy, and Spain. Because Lily is confident in her ability to immerse herself in different cultures, she will not be afraid to try any exotic fresh ingredients you may come across on your sailing holiday.
As a manager at Wimbeldon Tennis Championships for 5 years, Lily also enjoys hosting and has a high standard for making sure everyone on board has a good time, whether it's with themed food nights, on-board dinners, or fun cocktail parties at sundown.