Our Captains
Captain Joss Martinez, originally from the south of France, brings over 30 years of experience at sea. Since establishing his base in Marina del Rey in 2008, he has navigated the waters with skill, care, and deep respect for the ocean. In 2015, he founded a sea charter company that includes Ocean Memorial LA, created to provide meaningful, dignified memorial services at sea. Captain Joss is honored to guide families through these deeply personal moments, where tradition, professionalism, and compassion come together on the open ocean.
Meet Our Team
Compassionate, experienced professionals guiding meaningful ocean memorials.
Our crew members assist in creating seamless, respectful memorial experiences. Each member is trained to provide support and ensure that every family feels cared for during their time at sea.
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Experienced & Licensed: Every ceremony is conducted by trained professionals, including a Master 200T licensed captain.
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Compassionate Guidance: We guide families through each step with sensitivity and respect.
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Personalized Service: Each ceremony is tailored to reflect the unique life and memory of your loved one.
Schedule your ceremony or contact us to learn more about our team and services.
Why Choose Our Team?
Ready to honor your loved one?
Joss Martinez
Licensed Memorial Captain & Founder
Captain Joss Martinez leads Ocean Memorial LA with compassion and dedication. With years of experience at sea and as a licensed Master 200T captain, he ensures every ceremony is safe, respectful, personalized, and meaningful. Families trust Joss to provide a serene and comforting experience during these deeply important moments.
“I’ve spent my life on the water, and I’m honored to help families celebrate memories in the ocean’s calm embrace.”
Yazandra Martinez
Yazandra is a passionate Deckhand Steward with a lifelong love for the water. From working as a lifeguard and stunt diver to competing as a swimmer and Ironman athlete, the ocean has always been her element. Alongside her maritime career, she is also a successful Event Director, specializing in a wide range of events; from elegant weddings to large-scale expos and trade shows.
Now on deck, she combines her hospitality expertise with her waterwoman spirit, ensuring every guest feels celebrated, cared for, and completely at ease. No matter where Yaz goes, she brings a warm welcome, high energy, and contagious laughter. Creating unforgettable experiences both at sea and on land.
Dennis Sulies
Captain Dennis Sullies is a licensed Master 50T Captain and the compassionate leader behind Ocean Memorial. With over 15 years of maritime experience, he is dedicated to creating safe, respectful, and personalized ash scattering ceremonies. Known for his calm presence and attention to detail, Captain Dennis ensures each memorial at sea is meaningful, peaceful, and handled with the utmost care for every family.
Emile Opffer
Emile is a passionate Deckhand Steward with a lifelong love for the ocean. The water has always been his true element, and outside of his maritime career, he enjoys sailing aboard his own sailboat whenever possible.
Alongside his work at sea, Emile is also a successful construction engineering and building inspector professional, bringing both precision and dedication to everything he does.
Known for his warm personality, positive energy, and easygoing nature, Emile helps create a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for every guest onboard.