Made by Crew, for Crew

At Simple Sailor, we know the challenges of yacht maintenance firsthand. Founded by two Master 3000 Captains with over 50 years of combined experience—from the Royal Navy to Antarctic Survey missions and the world's largest superyachts—we set out to create cleaning solutions that actually work, without the usual trade-offs. Backed by a family-run team of expert chemists, including two who were "pirated" from leading marine cleaner brands, we develop products tested on real yachts, not just in labs.

We discovered that most so-called "biodegradable" marine cleaners contain acute aquatic toxins, misleading safety data, or are just repackaged car soaps. Frustrated by the lack of transparency, we dug deeper—exploring enzymes, organics, and industrial chemistry—to formulate solutions that are genuinely ocean-friendly and yacht-safe.

What started as a mission to create the ultimate teak cleaner evolved into a full range of high-performance, OCEAN-DEGRADABLE™ products, now trusted on over 50 vessels with a 100% repeat customer rate. As we continue innovating in 2025, our goal remains simple: better products for better boat care, without the hidden toxins.

Our Crew

Our crew has sailed the world's largest superyachts, from Lürssens to Feadships, Westports to Trinitys, and everything in between.  

Our in-house experts? A unique mix of industrial chemists, ichthyology biologists, business developers and superyacht enthusiasts — blending science and real-world experience to create next-level marine cleaning solutions.

Tristan Abele 
Founder & USA CEO

With a lifetime spent on the water, Tristan brings unmatched expertise to Simple Sailor. A Master 3000 and Fleet Captain with experience spanning yachts from 30 to 312 feet, he has navigated the seven seas in roles across the Royal Navy, Antarctic Survey, and the world’s most prestigious superyachts. His deep understanding of yacht maintenance and environmental responsibility led him to create cleaning solutions that truly work — tested on real vessels, not just in labs. Under his leadership, Simple Sailor is setting a new standard for professional-grade, high-performance, and eco-conscious marine cleaning.

 

William Airth
Co-Founder & Europe CEO

As a seasoned superyacht captain, Will has spent his life at sea, working on yachts from 150ft to over 400ft. His experience as a Royal Navy officer and in luxury yachting gives him a unique, detail-oriented perspective on what truly works onboard.

As the driving force behind Simple Sailor’s product innovation, he combines hands-on expertise with a passion for creating solutions that simplify yacht maintenance while enhancing efficiency and sustainability. Designed by yacht crew, for yacht crew, his products meet the highest standards — because he knows firsthand what they need.

 

McKenzie Abele
Co-Founder

With a degree in biology and a years of exposure to luxury yachting, McKenzie bridges the gap between science and real-world onboard care. Her deep understanding of marine ecosystems drives her commitment to creating products that are both highly effective and environmentally responsible.  

As co-founder of Simple Sailor, she ensures that every formula is backed by science and designed for practicality. Passionate about sustainability, McKenzie is dedicated to developing solutions that make yacht maintenance easier while protecting the waters they navigate.

 

 

Mariana Diaz
Director of Marketing

With over five years of experience in sustainability and environmental marketing, Mariana is dedicated to using media and communications to drive real environmental impact. She specialises in crafting compelling campaigns that inspire action and promote eco-conscious choices.

Through innovative storytelling, she ensures that Simple Sailor’s commitment to sustainability isn’t just heard — it’s felt. As a skilled marketer, she fosters a culture of creativity, collaboration, and excellence. Her strategic vision helps bridge the gap between yacht crew, sustainability, and cutting-edge marine solutions, making Simple Sailor a leader in truly ocean-safe innovation.

 

Our Organic & Industrial Chemists

Our top-secret team of chemists doesn’t wear lab coats, but they know their atomic numbers inside and out. With backgrounds as leading chemists at multimillion-dollar brands, they bring a unique blend of industrial chemistry, ichthyology, and innovation to every formula.

Driven by a deep understanding of both marine ecosystems and cutting-edge chemistry, they craft high-performance, ocean-safe solutions that go beyond industry standards. Their expertise ensures that Simple Sailor’s products aren’t just effective — they’re redefining what it means to be truly eco-friendly.

Bella Abele
Team Bonding Manager

As Simple Sailor’s beloved Team Bonding Manager, Bella takes her role very seriously — when she’s not snoozing, that is. This fluffy Whoodle brings joy and morale-boosting cuddles to the crew, ensuring everyone stays in high spirits.

She’s a connoisseur of McDonald’s ice cream cones and never says no to a treat. However, she’s not a fan of fireworks or bearded men (nothing personal). Whether she’s overseeing team meetings or demanding belly rubs, Bella keeps the Simple Sailor crew motivated — one wag at a time.