All the entrants were outstanding and, as always, it proved very difficult to select the winners from such an exceptional lineup. The extremely high standard across the board certainly made for an enjoyable and memorable event!
In the chef competition, the chefs were tasked with creating a wellness-forward, three-course dining experience: first course, main course and dessert, utilizing the mystery ingredient(s) and showcasing the theme. It was expected that each course should reflect the chef’s ability to craft clean, intentional cuisine that is health-conscious, balanced and beautifully presented.
In the yacht table design and service competition, the stewards and stewardesses were tasked with designing a table setting that reflected A Journey of Wellness, showcasing their artistry in table design, holistic service and creative ambiance. Every detail - from table décor to guest interaction - should reflect a unified vision of wellness and luxury at sea.
This year’s judges were:
- Chef Elizabeth Lee, East Yachts
- Chef Colin McGurran - Michelin-starred chef
- Chef Danny Davies - Award-winning superyacht chef
- Chef Rio Alexander - The Beautiful Table
- Chef Jean Pierre Tuitt - Jumby Bay Resort
- Chef Lola Vuillemenot - Professional yacht chef
And the winners are…
Chef Competition
In the category of yachts 180ft and over:
1st place: Chef Thean Labuschagne, M/Y Starfire
2nd place: Chef Daniel Stoma Baldo, M/Y Roma
3rd place: Chef Alessandro Cargiolli, M/Y Amor a Vida
In the category of yachts 126-179ft:
1st place: Chef Jonny Sims, M/Y Asani
2nd place: Chef Molly McMullin, M/Y White Star
3rd place: Chef Sean Connolly, M/Y King Benji
In the category of yachts 125ft and under:
1st place: Chef Thomas Carmeille, S/Y Kajikia
2nd place: Chef Alexis Charrett, S/Y Reve Blue
3rd place: Chef Luke Brooks, M/Y Haze II
Yacht Table Design and Service Competition
In the category of yachts 180ft and over:
1st place: Chief Stewardesses Nora Edgington & Paloma Estrada, M/Y Amor a Vida
2nd place: Chief Stewardess Aimie Keech, M/Y Starfire
3rd place: Chief Stewardess Tamaryn Smith, M/Y Elis et Mar
In the category of yachts 126-179ft:
1st place: Chief Stewardess Matilda Redmond, M/Y Asani
2nd place: Chief Stewardess Beth Pendrous, M/Y Amica Mea
3rd place: Chief Stewardess Michelle Riherd, M/Y King Baby
In the category of yachts 125ft and under:
1st place: Chief Stewardess Alena Konysheva, M/Y Allora
2nd place: Chief Stewardess Isabel Tyrrell, M/Y Haze II
3rd place: Chief Stewardess Anais Michel, S/Y Kajikia
Concours de Chef Coordinator, Chef Elizabeth Lee said:
"Coordinating the Antigua Charter Yacht Show’s Concours de Chef and Yacht Table Design and Service Competitions is a phenomenal honor. This year we had 26 yachts compete in this prestigious event, each showcasing immense talent from their charter crews.
“The competition level was very high, with many gifted chefs and interior crew members collaborating to impress our discerning judges. While only a few yachts and their crew could take home the coveted awards, I want to emphasize that the competition is not the sole arbiter of one's talent and potential. Interpreting the theme and incorporating the secret ingredient while balancing taste and presentation is a significant creative challenge. All chefs and crew demonstrated wonderful abilities regardless of final placement.
“As the coordinator of this exciting event, it was deeply rewarding to facilitate such an exceptional display of fine cuisine and design from top charter yachts. I applaud all the 2025 participants and hope to see these and even more skilled yacht crews take part again next year."
Congratulations to all our winners and huge thanks to everyone who helped make these competitions a success. Check out the gallery below, and keep your eyes peeled on our photo galleries in the coming weeks to view the full array of imagery from the competitions!
