Our story, set at sea — from the galley to the helm
Lily & Nik
Lily Davison
Lily Davison is a private yacht chef originally from Windsor in the UK, currently based aboard SV Location, a luxury catamaran cruising the Bahamas. With a background in hospitality and a love for elevated yet approachable food, Lily creates thoughtful dining experiences at sea — from bespoke menus and beautifully plated dinners to warm, guest-focused service.
Lily is also the creator of Lily of the Galley, where she shares life as a yacht chef alongside recipes and moments from charter life. She is a graduate of Ballymaloe Cookery School in Cork, Ireland, and holds both a BSc and an MSc from the University of Bristol. Her cooking blends classical foundations with a modern, coastal style, shaped by both her formal education and hands-on experience.
At the heart of Lily’s work is a simple goal: to make good food and good hospitality feel easy, personal, and enjoyable.
Nik Dorward
Nik Dorward is a yacht captain with experience across vessel operations, hospitality, and charter management, currently working aboard luxury sailing yachts in the Bahamas. Calm and practical in his approach, Nik oversees navigation, safety, and day-to-day operations to ensure smooth, well-run charters.
He is also the man behind the scenes of Lily of the Galley, playing an active role in the brand’s success. From filming and photography to creative input and logistics, Nik provides constant support both onboard and ashore, helping shape the content and direction of the brand.
Whether at the helm or behind the camera, Nik brings a steady, collaborative presence and is an integral part of both yacht operations and the Lily of the Galley story.
Creating memories one bite at a time
Crafting culinary memories
We craft refined yet relaxed yacht experiences where exceptional food and seamless sailing come together effortlessly. With private yacht chef Lily Davison and yacht captain Nik Dorward at the helm, each charter is thoughtfully paced and quietly polished — from bespoke, beautifully presented meals to smooth operations and attentive service throughout life at sea. Our focus is simple: understated luxury, genuine hospitality, and an experience that feels personal, calm, and easy from start to finish.
Yacht Chef & Hospitality
Private yacht chef creating elevated yet approachable dining experiences with warm, guest-focused service.
Culinary Style & Training
Classically trained with a modern coastal style, shaped by Ballymaloe Cookery School and real-world charter life.
Lily of the Galley
Creator of Lily of the Galley, sharing life at sea through food, storytelling, and behind-the-scenes charter moments.