About Cape Town Yacht Services

Your Trusted Partner in the Heart of the V&A Waterfront

 

Erik Bjerring

For more than three decades, my life and career have been shaped by a deep passion for yacht racing and the sea. I began racing at a young age in classes ranging from Sabots and Hobie Cats to Formula 40 catamarans, eventually entering the professional yachting world at just 18. Those early years laid the foundation for a lifelong career dedicated to the care, performance, and management of sailing yachts.

As Boat Captain for the Nitro Racing campaign, I spent over ten years managing both the Corby 49 and the Cape 31 Nitro. During this time I was responsible for the day-to-day operation, maintenance, and race preparation of the vessels, ensuring they consistently performed at the highest level. This role provided invaluable experience in yacht systems, team coordination, and the meticulous attention to detail required in professional racing environments.

Recognising a growing need for reliable, high-quality yacht management services at the Cape Town Waterfront, I went on to establish Cape Town Yacht Services. Today, our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to delivering exceptional care and support for every vessel we manage. With a strong focus on professionalism, reliability, and attention to detail, our goal is to provide yacht owners—both local and international—with complete peace of mind and a standard of service that consistently exceeds expectations.

  • Colleen Bjerring

    Colleen Bjerring – Head of Logistics & Co-Director, CFO

    Colleen Bjerring is the Head of Logistics and Co-Director of CTYS, playing a vital role in the day-to-day operations of the company. With a background in both the accounting and restaurant industries, she brings strong financial management, organization, and people skills to the team. Colleen oversees all company accounts and logistics while ensuring that staff are well supported and operations run smoothly. Her dedication and attention to detail make her an essential part of keeping CTYS efficient and well managed.

  • Jenna Fortuin

    Head Stewardess

    Our Head Stewardess, Jenna Fortuin, is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of interior presentation and guest readiness. She oversees all aspects of interior care, including meticulous cabin cleaning, laundry services, onboard organization, and stewardess-led detailing, ensuring the yacht remains immaculate at all times. With her warm professionalism and exceptional attention to detail, Jenna creates a welcoming, luxurious environment where every space reflects comfort, care, and excellence.

  • Rigter Oosthuizen

    Lead Deckhand

    Rigter Oosthuizen is an experienced deckhand who has been part of the Cape Town Yacht Services team for some time. He is fully superyacht trained and brings a strong understanding of professional yacht operations. Rigter is known for his excellent attention to detail, reliability, and high standards of work. He also has very good people skills, making him a valuable team member both when working with crew and interacting with clients.

  • Jean-Jouis Du Plessis

    Junior Deckhand

    Jean-Louis du Plessis, known to the team as “Duppie,” joins us as a Junior Deckhand after recently completing his maritime studies. Bringing fresh enthusiasm and a strong willingness to learn, Duppie has quickly shown himself to be hardworking and dedicated. With a clear goal of building a long-term career in the yachting industry, he adds great energy and promise to the team.

  • Tristen Els

    Junior Deckhand

    Tristen Els joins CTYS as a Junior Deckhand, beginning his career in the yachting industry with enthusiasm and determination. A hardworking and reliable team member, Tristen is known for his strong work ethic, attention to detail, and willingness to put in long hours in all conditions. He is eager to build his experience with CTYS while developing the skills needed to progress into the international superyacht industry in the near future.