A SIMPLE STORY
Finding Inspiration in every wave
Simple Ocean-Degradable ™ Ingredients
NOT JUST 'BIODEGRADEABLE' ON LAND
Built by Yacht Crew, for Yacht Crew—With Real-World Experience
We’re not just another cleaning brand—we’re yacht crew, backed by a sailing community, family, and a team of chemists, two of whom we pirated from leading marine cleaner brands. At the helm, we have two Master 3000 Captains with over 50 years of experience, spanning the Royal Navy, Antarctic expeditions, and the world’s largest superyachts. Together with our chemists—who have real yachting experience—we test our products where it matters: on real yachts, not just in a lab.
Cutting Through the Greenwashing
As professional mariners, we saw the industry’s dirty secret—most so-called “biodegradable” cleaners still contain acute aquatic toxins or hide behind doctored Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and “proprietary trade secrets.” Some even claim MARPOL endorsements for annexes that don’t exist.
Worse, most marine cleaners are just repackaged car soaps, tweaked slightly for softer marine paints but still toxic to our oceans.
We knew the industry could do better. So, we set out to redefine marine cleaning, not just by meeting regulations but by paving the way for truly eco-conscious standards.
Science-Backed, Ocean-Positive Cleaning
We researched everything—enzymes, organics, and industrial chemicals—without bias. What we found?
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Enzymes are unstable, degrade within days, and require toxic preservatives. Worse, they pose occupational asthma and anaphylactic risks.
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Organics had untapped potential, and after three years, we discovered three completely non-toxic, naturally derived foaming, thickening, and stabilizing compounds—an industry first.
It Started With Teak—Now We’re Changing the Industry
Our journey began with a mission to create the ultimate teak cleaner—one that wouldn’t burn stainless, wouldn’t harm skin, and would work in harmony with tectona grandis, enhancing its natural oils and golden glow. After rigorous testing, we launched with 100% repeat business on 50 vessels in our first year. From there, we expanded—introducing a full range of ocean-degradable™ cleaners, rated for real-world use and runoff impact.
Now, in 2025, we’re growing fast, launching new products our customers love, and pushing the industry forward. Because at Simple Sailor, we believe cleaning should be powerful, honest, and truly ocean-friendly.
Made by crew, for crew
Our crew has sailed the seven seas aboard the world’s biggest superyachts—from Lürssens and Feadships to Westports and Trinitys—and everything in between. We’ve scrubbed, polished, and problem-solved on vessels of all sizes, so we know exactly what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to marine cleaning.
As for our in-house brains? Let’s just say they’re a handpicked crew of organic and industrial chemists, ichthyologists, and superyacht geeks who live and breathe the ocean. Together, we’re obsessed with making cleaning products that work hard, protect marine life, and cut through the industry’s greenwashing.
Our simple team
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, he continues to hold senior roles onboard while overseeing yachts ranging from 30ft to 312ft. His experience spans 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.
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 crafting solutions that are both highly effective and environmentally responsible.
As co-founder of Simple Sailor, she ensures that every product 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.
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.
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.
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.
Poppy Airth-Diaz
Chief Energy Officer
Poppy brings unstoppable enthusiasm to the Simple Sailor team as our Chief Energy Officer. This high-speed Collie mix is always on the move, whether it’s chasing the wind, sniffing out every corner, or keeping a watchful eye on those pesky squirrels and birds (her sworn enemies).
Deaf but fearless, she loves everyone she meets and never misses an opportunity to beg for food — her persistence is truly inspiring. With boundless energy and a heart full of love, Poppy keeps the team on their toes and ensures there’s never a dull moment.