With over a decade of experience in the yachting industry, Ashley has built an impressive career through dedication, leadership, and a passion for life at sea. Progressing steadily from Bosun to Chief Officer, Engineer, and ultimately Captain, he has developed a well-rounded understanding of yacht operations across a wide range of vessels.
Throughout his career, he has cruised extensively across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the English Channel, and the North Sea, gaining invaluable experience in both private and charter environments. Working closely with owners, guests, brokers, and management teams, he has built a reputation for delivering seamless experiences while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and service.
Known for his calm leadership style, attention to detail, and approachable personality, Ashley takes pride in creating a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable atmosphere on board. His extensive yachting experience, combined with a genuine passion for hospitality, ensures that every voyage is both memorable and expertly managed from start to finish onboard M/Y AURA.

Ashley Simmonds
Captain
Jasper brings a positive attitude, strong leadership skills, and a genuine passion for life on the water to his role as Chief Officer. With a background in luxury hospitality and tourism before entering the yachting industry, he has developed a guest-focused approach and an excellent understanding of high-end service.
A certified PADI Open Water Diver and enthusiastic water sports lover, he enjoys making the most of every destination and sharing his passion for the ocean. Friendly, approachable, and team-oriented, he is committed to creating a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience on board for guests and crew alike.

Jasper Alport
First Officer
With an impressive career spanning both private and charter yachts up to 124 metres, Tommy brings a wealth of superyacht experience gained across a diverse fleet of private and charter vessels. Having worked in destinations from the Mediterranean to the remote wilderness of Alaska, he has developed a flexible and creative approach to cuisine, tailoring memorable dining experiences to suit every guest, occasion, and cruising itinerary.
Progressing from sous chef roles to head chef positions, Tommy has built a strong reputation for creativity, adaptability, and culinary excellence. A career highlight was the expedition through Alaska aboard M/Y Haida 1929, where careful planning and sourcing in remote locations were key to delivering exceptional guest experiences. Classically trained, he holds Ashburton Professional Diplomas with Distinction in both Culinary Arts and Patisserie, bringing refined skills and creativity to every menu he creates.
Outside the galley, he is passionate about music and Latin dance. A talented musician, he plays piano, guitar, and drums, and has even performed for owners and guests on occasion. Friendly, adaptable, and dedicated to exceeding expectations, he brings enthusiasm, professionalism and a genuine love of hospitality to M/Y AURA crew.
Previous Yachts: M/Y KATARA(124m), M/Y LADY GUYLA (111m), M/Y POWERPLAY (55m)

Tommy Leighton
Chef
Alexa is s motivated and hardworking stewardess with experience aboard yachts up to 65m. She has developed a strong foundation in service, housekeeping, laundry, and interior detailing. Having worked in guest-focused environments, she is known for her positive attitude, attention to detail, and willingness to learn. Passionate about hospitality, she takes pride in delivering high standards of service and creating a welcoming onboard experience for guests and crew alike.
Previous Yachts: M/Y WHITE ROSE OF DRACHS (65m)

Alexa Jade Senar
Stewardess
Having gained experience on several well-known superyachts, Cameron has developed a strong foundation in deck operations while working alongside experienced crews on some of the industry's most recognizable vessels. His involvement in challenging turnaround periods and high-standard maintenance programs has given him valuable exposure to the fast-paced demands of luxury yachting. Driven, enthusiastic, and always eager to learn, he approaches every opportunity with a positive attitude and a strong team spirit.
Outside of yachting, he is passionate about fitness and endurance sports, having founded the Anchor Run Club in Antibes to bring together fellow yacht crew through running. He also enjoys swimming, rowing, golf, rugby, and water sports, bringing energy and motivation to life on board M/Y AURA.
Previous Yachts: M/Y AXIOMA (72m), M/Y WHITE ROSE OF DRACHE (65m), M/Y SEA LION (64m), M/Y FLORENTIA (52m)

Cameron Hobsons
Deckhand
A natural people person with a passion for the maritime industry, Amelia combines hands-on deck experience with a strong background in luxury customer service. Having worked aboard both superyachts and passenger vessels, she is comfortable balancing the practical demands of deck operations with delivering a welcoming and professional experience for guests.
Her previous career with premium automotive brands such as BMW and Jaguar Land Rover gave her valuable experience developing excellent communication skills, professionalism, and a keen eye for detail. These qualities have transitioned seamlessly into yachting, where she is known for his reliability, positive attitude, and strong work ethic.
Away from work, she enjoys an active outdoor lifestyle, including running, jet skiing, fishing, travelling, and scuba diving. A PADI Open Water Diver, she is always eager to embrace new challenges and adventures, bringing enthusiasm and energy to life on board M/Y AURA.
Previous Yachts: M/Y REBELLIOUS (50m)

Amelia Rippon
Deckhand
With a career spanning commercial shipping, offshore operations, cruise ships, and more recently luxury yachts, Iain brings a strong maritime background and a professional, safety-focused approach to his role as Chief Engineer. His experience has provided him with a wealth of knowledge and hands-on expertise in safety, firefighting, and leadership, ensuring the highest standards are maintained on board.
Outside of work, he enjoys scuba diving, Thai boxing, fitness training, and travelling. A PADI Advanced Open Water Diver with a passion for adventure, he brings a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and calm presence to both guests and crew alike.
Previous Yachts:M/Y DOMANI (45m), M/Y TC (40M), M/Y SeaBlueZ (37M)

Stuart Taylor
Engineer
With a career spanning commercial shipping, offshore operations, cruise ships, and more recently luxury yachts, Iain brings a strong maritime background and a professional, safety-focused approach to his role as Chief Engineer. His experience has provided him with a wealth of knowledge and hands-on expertise in safety, firefighting, and leadership, ensuring the highest standards are maintained on board.
Outside of work, he enjoys scuba diving, Thai boxing, fitness training, and travelling. A PADI Advanced Open Water Diver with a passion for adventure, he brings a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and calm presence to both guests and crew alike.

Iain Small
Engineer
Passionate about creating unforgettable guest experiences, Kathryn brings a vibrant blend of creativity, organisation, and luxury hospitality expertise to her role as chief stewardess. Her experience on both private and charter yachts has allowed her to develop a service style that is polished yet personable, ensuring every guest feels welcomed and exceptionally cared for.
Known for her flair for themed events, elegant tablescapes, flower arrangements, and cocktail creation, she enjoys adding thoughtful touches that make each occasion unique. Her talent for presentation was recognised at the Antigua Charter Yacht Show 2025, where she received an award for her tablescaping skills.
A trained bartender and barista with a strong appreciation for food and wine pairing, she thrives on delivering memorable dining and entertainment experiences. Outside of yachting, her adventurous nature shines through her love of scuba diving, kiteboarding, wakeboarding, swimming, travel, and exploring new cultures, bringing energy and positivity to life on board.
Previous Yachts: M/Y CUPCAKE (40m), M/Y INSPIRATION (38m)

Kathryn Creighton
Chief steward/ess