Tiago Dal Ponte is an experienced sailor, engineer, and yacht captain with a strong background in vessel operations, engineering, passage planning, and crew coordination aboard private and research sailing yachts up to 39m.
With hands-on experience navigating throughout Italy, Greece, and Thailand, Tiago has served as Captain, 1st Mate, and Engineer on both cruising and performance sailing vessels. He is recognized for his calm leadership under pressure, technical problem-solving skills, and strong operational management onboard.
His qualifications include IYT Master of Yacht Unlimited, STCW, ENG1, and advanced diving certifications. Tiago holds both Brazilian and Italian passports and is legally authorized to work internationally.
For Season 2026, Tiago will join J Seven as Captain, bringing a professional, safety-focused, and team-oriented approach together with extensive engineering and sailing expertise.

Tiago Del Ponte
Captain
Helen is a dedicated and adaptable Stewardess/Deckhand with a strong work ethic, hands-on maritime experience, and a passion for life at sea. Having worked aboard a research vessel as part of a 14-person crew, she has gained practical experience in both interior and exterior operations, including housekeeping, provisioning, tender driving, galley support, and assisting with sailing and engine room duties.
Originally trained as a translator and language teacher, Helen brings exceptional communication skills, cultural awareness, and professionalism to every environment. Fluent in English, Russian, and Ukrainian, she works confidently with international guests and crew while maintaining a calm, positive, and team-oriented attitude.
An active and resilient individual, Helen thrives in physically demanding roles and enjoys contributing wherever needed to ensure smooth daily operations on board. She is currently seeking an opportunity aboard M/Y J SEVEN where she can continue developing as a well-rounded yacht crew member and deliver outstanding support to both guests and crew alike.

Helen Pavlik
Deckhand
Erika Kozarova is a dedicated and versatile culinary professional with experience in luxury hospitality, fine dining, and private and charter yachts. She specializes in creating fresh, high-quality meals while maintaining excellent service standards for guests and crew. With a strong background in Michelin-recommended restaurants and luxury hotels such as The Ritz-Carlton, Erika brings professional kitchen discipline, creative menu planning, and efficient galley management to every vessel she works on. She is experienced in provisioning, inventory control, and running a charter galley independently while adapting menus to guest preferences and dietary requirements. Erika is also comfortable assisting with interior and basic deck operations when needed.

Erika Kozarova
Chef