Elevate Crew Academy is a premium crew training platform dedicated to providing hands-on, high-value learning experiences for yacht crew members. Unlike traditional yacht schools, we focus on the specialized skills that yacht owners and management companies are seeking, such as content creation, carpentry, wellness practices, and more.
At Elevate Crew Academy (ECA), we’re more than just another yachting training provider. We’re a team of passionate professionals on a mission to disrupt the industry and offer yacht crew the specialized, real-world skills that will make them stand out. Our founder, Lilé, created ECA with the vision to provide accessible, high-quality training that empowers crew to excel, all while keeping costs affordable.
Our expert instructors bring years of real-world experience to every course. They’re passionate about sharing their knowledge and helping crew members stand out in the industry
With a deep passion for giving back to the maritime community, Lilé founded ECA to empower crew members to stand out by developing specialized skills. With years of experience as a sailor and first responder with the National Sea Rescue Institute of South Africa, Lilé understands what it takes to succeed on the water and is committed to helping others thrive in the maritime world.
Through SEA Foundation, she also works to provide equal opportunities for aspiring crew members, enabling them to make the most of their potential.
Charl is a South African yachtie and the founder of The Yachting Investor, a platform dedicated to helping yacht crew take control of their financial futures. After six years of firsthand experience in the yachting industry, Charl discovered a passion for personal finance, investing, and wealth-building.
Through The Yachting Investor, he shares free, practical advice and resources designed specifically for yacht crew — empowering them to make smarter financial decisions, avoid common money mistakes, and work toward financial independence. Charl’s mission is simple: to be the guide he wished he had when he started out, and to make financial education accessible to all crew at every stage of their journey.
Pinty co-founded ECA and SEA Foundation and is dedicated to promoting advocacy, safety, and professional growth within the maritime industry. As Head of Elevate Safety Circle, Pinty ensures that crew members have access to the support and resources they need when facing challenging situations.
Whether it’s dealing with harassment, abuse, or mental health struggles, Elevate Safety Circle provides a safe space for crew members to seek help, raise awareness, and connect with legal or professional resources.
Tessa is a registered dietitian, personal trainer, and current yacht crew member with experience across deck, interior, and galley. She’s the founder of Navigating Balance and leads our wellness division with a practical, science-based approach.
Her signature course, The Wellness Blueprint empowers crew to build sustainable health and performance habits to thrive in the demanding yachting environment.
At ECA, we believe that safety extends beyond physical training — it’s about creating a supportive and safe community for all crew members. That’s why we’ve established Elevate Safety Circle, a platform designed to help crew deal with issues like suicide prevention, harassment, abuse, and access to legal resources and Nautilus links. Whether you need someone to talk to, expert advice, or access to professional services, Elevate Safety Circle is here for you. We’re proud to be part of a growing network of industry partners and are committed to creating a positive, supportive environment for all crew.