Wonita Stirk

I started working with Boatshed in June 2023.

I was born and raised in South Africa and having completed my schooling I studied Public Relations and Marketing. I love a challenge which enables me to learn, grow, become aware and which feeds my level of curiosity. Travelling to "off the beaten track" places make me happy and together with my family comprising husband, 21yr daughter and 18yr son we love to explore. One of my goals is to never stop learning about the world and what it has to offer. This, I think, is a key ingredient into what keeps a person young at heart.

What did you do before working with Boatshed?
I was an entrepreneur for many years offering various products that were either manufactured, sourced or grown in South Africa. I attended large corporate Trade Shows where I would market my goods to buyers from across the country. I was drawn to the water from a very young age having learnt to water ski at about 7yrs old. A few deep sea fishing trips and bi-annual water skiing holidays contributed to my love of the ocean. We went on to own a 32ft Sailing Catamaran which brought us endless joy as a family spending a month at a time during school holidays, moored at a beautiful hamlet up the West Coast of South Africa called Langebaan.

What attracted you to become part of the Boatshed team?
I appreciate the family orientated ethos that Neil and his team have adopted in the running of Boatshed. The manner in which boats are listed, after-sales service and the step by step assistance given to a potential buyer is focussed, detailed and above all transparent.

Are you a motorboater or a sailor?
Definitely a sailor. Preferably on a catamaran.

What is your most memorable boating experience?
Setting off from Cape Town to Langebaan, we encountered huge seas just off Dassen Island. Running swell so big that I was sure the yacht would be engulfed from the stern. Whilst looking back, I failed to realise that the yacht bow had water coming up to the foredeck hatch. Once in Langebaan, I enjoyed a rather large glass of crisp white wine to calm my nerves.