About M/Y DETERMINATION

Oceana Minthorne – Stewardess
Born and raised in Hawaii, even as a little girl Oceana always dreamed of travelling for work. With a name like “Oceana”, one might even say she was destined for it! (In her career so far, she has cruised the Bahamas, Caribbean, New England, the Mediterranean, Mexico, Costa Rica, the West Coast and Alaska). Cliché jokes aside, Oceana brings a solid hospitality background to DETERMINATION, spending 9 years working in bars and restaurants before making the transition to yachting. She has a degree in communications and loves to chat, and she has a special gift for making you feel like you have been heard. She will without a doubt exceed your expectations! When Oceana is not on duty, she enjoys staying fit and active, finding new music, reading and doing yoga. Her favorite thing about yachting is the people you meet along the way, and she is looking forward to welcoming you aboard.

Originally from France and now based in Doral, Miami, Gary Cartron is a seasoned chef with over 26 years of culinary expertise, including two years specializing in yacht charters. His passion for fine dining, precision, and creativity allows him to craft exceptional menus tailored to each guest’s preferences.

Gary has worked on Never Blue (120’), Sweet Virginia (110’), Nectar (120’), and numerous luxury day charter yachts, bringing world-class cuisine to the yachting industry. His extensive experience spans the Caribbean and the Bahamas, where he consistently delivers top-tier dining experiences. Fluent in English, Spanish, and French, he seamlessly adapts to diverse international guests and crews.

Dedicated to elevating yacht gastronomy, Gary envisions launching a chef consultancy to train and place elite culinary professionals on yachts and private estates. With a high-energy approach, exceptional culinary skills, and a commitment to excellence, he ensures every charter is a five-star dining experience.

Meredith Cashman Reece-Cassidy is an accomplished mariner with nearly two decades of experience across yacht operations, navigation, and guest services. Holding a USCG 200 Ton Master’s license, she has served as Relief Captain, Mate, and Fishing Tender Captain aboard private yachts throughout the Bahamas, New England, and the Atlantic coast. Meredith brings a strong command of vessel management, maintenance coordination, and team leadership, with certifications including STCW 95, Radar Observer Unlimited, and Medical First Aid Provider. Known for her organization, professionalism, and calm under pressure, she excels in delivering seamless guest experiences and maintaining the highest standards of safety and performance at sea.