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Last year, a 20-year-old South African yacht stewardess was discovered dead after being murdered by another crew member.
On July 3, 2025, Paige Bell, 20, from Johannesburg, was found partially undressed with her throat slashed in the engine room of the £9.5million ($12.8million) charter yacht Far From It after hours of searching.
Brigido Muñoz, a 39-year-old Mexican engineer working alongside Paige below deck, has been charged with her murder after being found beside her body covered in blood, with a knife in his hand and with both his wrists slashed, in what police believe was a suspected suicide attempt.
In the latest update since Bell’s tragic death just weeks before her 21st birthday, charity Protecting Crew Lives (PCL) is calling on superyacht crew members to take its survey on their living and working conditions.
Chantal Johnson, co-founder of PCL, said in a press release: “This data will build a collective and undeniable voice for crew, one that PCL will carry and amplify, making it impossible for the industry to ignore."
The press release from Human Rights at Sea also warns: “The risks facing superyacht crew begin even before they board a vessel, says Coetzer. These threats take many forms: fake recruitment companies, improper interview and photograph requests, targeted cybercrime and criminal activity on land.”
Bell had just completed a season on the Motor Yacht Sweet Emocean until December 2024 before joining Far From It as a guest relations officer. Friends described her as a “golden girl” whose life was tragically cut short.
At the time, Paige’s devastated family shared a statement which read: "Our family is facing an unimaginable journey.
"This evening mom and dad are flying to the Bahamas to begin the painful process of not only bringing their baby girl home but also seeking justice for the monster that took her life.
"We are devastated beyond words, and now we must also navigate complex and costly legal proceedings in a foreign country – something far beyond our financial means.
"This heartbreaking loss has been deeply felt by everyone who knew and loved 'Paigey' – her former captain, the boat owner, all the crew on board and our entire community.
"We are humbly asking for your support whether by sharing this message or contributing financially, every bit helps. Please keep our family in your thoughts and prayers.
"We are grateful for your love, support, and solidarity during this incredibly difficult time."
