AHAVA

Captain: Willem Nieuwelink
Nationality: Dutch
Languages: English, Dutch

With over 20 years of experience and more than 200,000 nautical miles logged, Captain Willem Nieuwelink brings a wealth of knowledge, precision, and warmth to every voyage. He has successfully led both private and charter programs aboard luxury sailing and motor yachts across the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Pacific, and U.S. East Coast.

A hands-on leader with a meticulous eye for detail, Willem has overseen multiple new builds, global cruising itineraries, and extensive refit projects. He’s known for delivering five-star charter experiences and managing vessels to the highest standards of safety and performance.

A Dutch national and fluent in both English and Dutch, Willem is also a certified PADI Divemaster and passionate watersports enthusiast, making him a favourite among active charter guests. Whether navigating remote anchorages or crafting seamless guest experiences, Captain Willem brings professionalism, reliability, and a deep love for the sea.

Captain: Hugues Corbellini [Rotational]
Nationality: French
Languages: English, French, Italian

A native of Antibes, Hugues grew up with the sea as his playground, naturally leading him to a career in yachting. With more than 10 years of experience across both sailing and motor yachts up to 56 metres, Hugues has steadily built a reputation as a confident, upbeat Captain with a hands-on leadership style.

Known for his adventurous spirit and calm, capable presence, he has cruised extensively through the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and beyond. Passionate about sailing, wakeboarding, and water sports, Hugues is dedicated to delivering safe, memorable charters while fostering a relaxed, professional atmosphere on board.

Chef: Aushi Walalam Caceres Pina
Nationality: Italian - Venezuelan
Languages: English, Spanish, Italian

With over 20 years of experience in the yachting and hospitality industry, Chef Aushi is a culinary expert known for his innovative approach to fine dining on luxury yachts. A graduate of the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners, he has mastered international cuisines, gourmet plating, and dietary customization, creating bespoke dining experiences for charter guests.

His career spans Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Pacific regions, where he skillfully sources premium ingredients to craft exquisite, personalized menus. Fluent in Spanish, Italian, and English, Aushi thrives in high-end, fast-paced charter environments, ensuring every meal is an unforgettable culinary journey.

Stewardess: Mael Cesar
Nationality: Spanish
Languages: English, Spanish, French

With a strong background in both hospitality and deck operations, Maël Cesar is a dynamic stewardess and deckhand with extensive experience on luxury sailing yachts. Having worked on high-profile charter and private vessels, including Sunreef, Swan, and Lagoon yachts, she excels in guest service, interior detailing, and deck duties.

Fluent in English, French, and Spanish, Maël is highly adaptable and thrives in multicultural environments. Her expertise includes table and beverage service, provisioning, turnarounds, watchkeeping, water sports assistance, and tender handling. With a natural passion for the sea, an energetic attitude, and a keen eye for detail, Maël ensures an exceptional experience for charter guests.

First Officer: Mark Barter
Nationality: South African
Languages: English

Originally from South Africa, Mark is a natural waterman whose passion for the ocean began with surfing, fishing, and sailing along his country’s coastline. Now based in the South of France, he has built a strong career as a Captain and First Mate, with experience navigating both motor and sailing yachts throughout the Mediterranean, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean.

Despite his young age, Mark brings impressive leadership, technical skills, and a calm, professional attitude on board. Guests appreciate his positive, can-do approach and expertise in watersports. In his free time, you’ll find him surfing, spearfishing, or perfecting his carpentry skills.

Stewardess: Dorina Cherneva
Nationality: Bulgarian
Languages: English, Bulgarian

Originally from Bulgaria, Dorina is a dynamic and organised individual with a natural flair for hospitality. After beginning her career in luxury event coordination and guest relations ashore, she smoothly transitioned to yachting, where her eye for detail and warm, approachable personality quickly stood out.

With experience aboard both sailing and motor yachts, including a Sunreef catamaran, Dorina excels in creating welcoming, beautifully curated onboard experiences. Known for her positive attitude and dedication, she ensures every guest feels genuinely cared for. Outside of work, she’s passionate about painting, cooking, and exploring new destinations.