The Team

Oona Layolle - Technical and Operational Director (FRA)

As Technical and Operational Director, I oversee and coordinate all activities required to transform our vessel into a fully functional scientific research ship. This includes managing technical operations, supervising the crew, handling budgets, and integrating scientific instruments. I work closely with everyone on the team, from scientists to logistical partners, to ensure smooth collaboration. Our goal is to operate an efficient and capable research vessel, ready for missions around the world, while also serving as a platform for education and raising public awareness about ocean conservation.

Jonathan Morice - Captain (FRA)

I was practically born on a boat in Costa Rica and have spent my life living aboard various family workboats and sailing yachts. Life at sea has always been my normal.

 

Driven by a deep connection to the ocean and a desire to explore further, I became a commercial diver, hoping one day to venture into the depths where few have gone. Being part of this project, which pushes boundaries in every sense, is an incredible opportunity. It allows me to contribute my part to the greater mission of understanding our planet and its Oceans.

 

What truly motivates me is the challenge of navigating to remote, often rough places to do something that genuinely matters for the world.

MArin (FRA)

Hi, I’m Marin. I grew up in the south of France, where I inherited my family’s passion for Mediterranean sailing. I began on classic racing yachts (AFYT) before moving on to traditionally rigged wooden boats and tall ships. These experiences gave me the chance to sail on some truly remarkable vessels, some of them centuries old.

After completing a Master’s degree in Human Resources, the call of the open sea became irresistible. I earned my Yachtmaster Offshore qualification on the Solent and have never stopped sailing since.

Of all the different forms of sailing, expeditions are my favorite. I love exploring remote places and working closely with a team to make everything run smoothly. Last season, I sailed in Antarctica, where I was deeply moved by its wild beauty and I’m thrilled to be returning to the southern high latitudes.

 

I’m also deeply concerned about the state of our oceans and their future. I believe we can’t protect what we don’t know, and there is still so much to discover beneath the surface. That’s why I’m proud to take part in Malizia’s project to sail with purpose and contribute to something greater.

Corentin Cusant (FRA)

I originally come from the Alps of France, where my passion for sailing began with my father. My journey into the world of sailing led me to study boat engineering in Les Sables d’Olonne. Before joining Team Malizia, I had the opportunity to work with various teams, gaining valuable experience along the way. My adventure with Team Malizia began at the start of The Ocean Race in Alicante in December 2022. What drew me to Team Malizia was not only the team's incredible spirit but also our mission beyond racing. We are committed to collecting data for scientific research, which will contribute to future climate science. I take immense pride in being part of a team that is not only competitive in sailing but also dedicated to making a positive impact on climate change.