First Mate

Marco Pimenta 

A smiling man in a black uniform with yellow epaulets, standing on a boat with the ocean and sky in the background.

Originally from Johannesburg, South Africa, Marco brings over six years of maritime experience to M/Y MOKA. With a strong background in competitive swimming, lifesaving, and water polo, Marco naturally transitioned from coaching aquatic sports to pursuing a full-time career in yachting. He completed an intensive 21-month cadetship program with military-style training aboard luxury sailing catamarans, which laid the foundation for his disciplined approach and strong work ethic. Since then, Marco has worked on vessels up to 62 meters, quickly rising through the ranks from deckhand and now serves as First Officer aboard the 42m MOKA.

View from the deck of a yacht showing a wooden floor, metal railings, and reflective glass walls with a clear blue ocean and sky in the background.
A smiling man in a black shirt with epaulets, standing on a boat at sea with a clear sky in the background.

Marco holds a Master of Yachts 200GT Unlimited, is a certified powerboat and personal watercraft instructor, and is actively working toward his OOW certification.

Marco is passionate about all things sport—from football and tennis to motorsport—and brings a high level of energy and leadership to the deck team. He also has a deep commitment to youth development and aspires to work with children from challenging backgrounds or with learning disabilities.

A man in a black T-shirt, shorts, and a hat is swinging a golf club at a golf ball on a tee on a golf course under a cloudy sky.
Young male swimmer running out of water with a yellow kickboard, wearing a yellow swim cap and black swimming trunks, during a competition at a lake or river.
Row of dumbbells on a gym rack in black and white.
A person riding a jet ski on a large lake with mountain cliffs and a cloudy sunset sky in the background.

  • Marco is an avid golfer who spends most weekends on the course, often teeing off alongside Captain Sam. Fitness is a big part of his life, and he’s passionate about the gym, always working to stay in top shape. When he’s not training or playing golf, Marco enjoys five-a-side football with fellow yacht crew in Mallorca, bringing his competitive spirit and teamwork to the pitch. Energetic, dedicated, and always on the move, Marco makes the most of every spare moment.

  • Marco sees his greatest achievement as representing South Africa as a lifeguard, and then going on to coach six athletes who also earned the opportunity to represent the country.

  • Marco loves the sea and the chance to entertain people, becoming part of their memories during each trip. He enjoys interacting with a diverse range of clients and takes pride in helping teach others onboard.