Chief Engineer – Omer Can ERKOC
Omer Can is a seasoned Turkish marine engineer, born in Istanbul in 1994 and currently based in Bodrum. After graduating from Piri Reis Maritime University with a degree in Ship Machinery Management Engineering in 2016, he embarked on a diverse career across commercial shipping and national coast guard service.

With over 7 years of engineering experience, including time aboard cargo vessels, naval ships, and a 40m charter yacht, Omer has managed critical systems across the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian Ocean, and Mediterranean waters. He recently served as Chief Engineer on M/S Zelda, a 40-meter charter yacht, where he oversaw all mechanical operations and preventative maintenance plans with precision.

Holding a 3000 kW Engineer Officer license (III/1), Omer brings strong leadership, discipline, and technical skills to every mission. Known for his ability to handle complex systems and troubleshoot under pressure, he is dedicated to safety, efficiency, and guest comfort.

“I believe the engine room is the beating heart of the yacht—my goal is to keep it running smoothly, no matter what seas we’re sailing.”

Captain – Osman KARAKOC
Captain Osman is a highly accomplished Turkish Master Mariner holding a Captain Unlimited (II/2) license with over 20 years of maritime experience, including 6 years as captain on commercial yachts. Based in Istanbul, he brings a unique blend of naval discipline and private yachting finesse to every command.

He has captained prestigious vessels such as M/Y Edesia (Benetti 121 – 37m), M/Y Serenitas (32m), and most recently a 50m expedition Support Yacht, where he led extensive refits, charter operations, and multi-national crew management. Osman’s operational range covers the Mediterranean extensively, from Italy and France to Greece, Croatia, and Spain.

Educated as both a Nautical Science Officer and Industrial Engineer, Osman stands out for his strategic thinking, engineering skills, and meticulous management style. His naval background includes leadership roles in the Turkish Navy, where he trained cadets and oversaw salvage operations.

Fluent in English and Turkish, he is certified in ECDIS, ARPA, GMDSS GOC, BRM, Advanced Firefighting, Medical Care, and Security Duties.

“My role as a captain is to inspire trust, ensure absolute safety, and deliver seamless experiences for both owner and guests—always with precision and integrity.”

Chief Officer – Marko MRDENOVIC
Marko is a Croatian Second Officer born in 1986, currently based in Tivat, Montenegro. With over 7 years of yachting experience and a background on yachts ranging from 32m to 73m, he brings a strong mix of leadership, technical navigation, and safety management to every vessel.

He has recently completed a two-year rotation aboard the 72m M/Y Plan B, where he was responsible for passage planning, deck crew supervision, tender operations, and safety drills. Marko has also served as 2nd Officer/Bosun on M/Y Burkut (55m) and M/Y Starburst III (48m), operating in dual-season programs across the Mediterranean and Caribbean.

Holder of an OOW Unlimited, a Yachtmaster 500GT, and a PADI Divemaster certification, Marko is as comfortable navigating and handling bridge operations as he is managing watersports and guest activities. Calm, hands-on, and precise, he is known for his high standards and crew mentoring abilities.

“I believe a strong deck team is the backbone of smooth operations. My role is to lead by example, ensure safety, and maintain the highest level of guest service.”

Deckhand – Ahmet BALPINAR
Ahmet is a hardworking and enthusiastic Turkish deckhand with a strong practical mindset and a growing reputation for precision, teamwork, and dependability. Based in Turkey and active in the Mediterranean, he has participated in various yacht operations, including maintenance, docking, and tender driving, always ensuring that safety and guest satisfaction come first.

With experience on private and charter vessels, Ahmet supports daily deck operations with solid technical awareness and a hands-on approach. He is known for being proactive, respectful, and fast to learn, making him a valuable asset on board for both seasoned and new teams.

He holds STCW, seaman’s book, and necessary safety certificates, and is physically fit, a non-smoker, and fully available.

“I believe in doing the job right the first time, taking pride in keeping the vessel immaculate and the guests at ease.”

Chef – Tugce BALPINAR
Tugce is a creative and passionate yacht chef based between Göcek and Istanbul, with over a decade of culinary experience including more than 7 years dedicated to private and charter yachts ranging from 26m to 53m.

Her expertise spans across various cuisines—from Mediterranean and Aegean flavors to Asian-inspired fine dining and sushi. She is particularly known for her ability to manage high-pressure galley environments with ease, organize provisions with precision, and create heartfelt, seasonal menus that delight both owners and guests.

Tugce has recently completed successful freelance chef positions on prestigious vessels including M/Y Hennessy Samurai (50m), M/Y Bad Company Support (53m), M/Y Balista (47m), and M/Y Muse (48m). She is also experienced in launching new galleys and managing galley transfers during vessel commissioning or refit periods.

Certified with STCW, ENG1, Food Hygiene Level 2, and Security Awareness, Tugce is admired for her professionalism, kindness, and love for the culinary arts.

“As I often say—cooking is love made edible. I bring warmth, care, and creativity into every dish I serve.”

Chief Stewardess – Taruna ASWANI
Born in 1990, Taruna is a passionate and dedicated Chief Stewardess with over 8 years of yachting experience, thriving both in high-paced charters and private settings. Originally trained on the job with great adaptability, she has risen through the ranks from 2nd Stew to trusted Chief Stew on multiple yachts ranging from 36m to 56m.

Her recent roles on M/Y Balista (47m), M/Y Oculus (40m), and M/Y Sweet Escape (40m) highlight her talent for leading interior teams, planning events, upkeeping luxurious environments, and delivering top-tier service. Known for her silver service finesse, creative table settings, and her calming, personable energy, she excels at anticipating guest needs and building strong team cohesion.

Taruna holds a B1/B2 visa, STCW, ENG1, Food Hygiene Level 2, and Designated Security Duties certificate, and is actively seeking her next Chief Stew position aboard a 45–55m busy charter yacht.

“I truly love what I do. My goal is to create beautiful moments for guests and a positive, respectful atmosphere for the crew—because both are essential for a successful charter.”

Second Stewardess – Savannah BUYS
Born in South Africa in 2000, Savannah is an energetic and creative Chief Stewardess with a versatile background in hospitality, event planning, and guest service. With solid land-based experience in lodge management and event coordination, she transitioned into yachting with ease and now brings professionalism and flair to every vessel she joins.

Savannah has served on yachts up to 47 meters, including as Chief Stewardess on M/Y Signe (28.9m) and Sole Stewardess on S/Y Viva La Vida (24.9m), managing interiors, guest experiences, provisioning, and event styling. She also held a 2nd Stew position on M/Y Balista (47m), where she supported a dynamic charter program.

Holding STCW, ENG1, and additional service qualifications, Savannah is detail-oriented and thrives in fast-paced environments. Her floral arrangements, cocktail service, and ability to manage guest events are frequently praised by both guests and colleagues.

“I bring energy, warmth, and creativity to the table—every guest interaction is an opportunity to create lasting memories with elegance and care.”

Stewardess – Chrystal BOTHMA
Chrystal is a young and enthusiastic South African junior stewardess, born in 2004 and based between Türkiye and South Africa. Driven by a strong desire to learn and grow in the yachting industry, she brings great energy, attention to detail, and a service-oriented mindset to every yacht she joins.

Having recently worked for a private family in Türkiye from May 2023 to November 2024, she developed a solid foundation in housekeeping, laundry, childcare, and personal assistance. Chrystal has also completed the STCW, SAMSA Medical, Food Hygiene Level 2, and a Superyacht Stewardess Course, demonstrating her commitment to the profession.

Fluent in Afrikaans and English, Chrystal thrives in multicultural teams and is known for her professionalism, time management, and warm personality. Her background in event promotion and hospitality adds versatility to her profile.

“I may be at the beginning of my yachting journey, but I approach each task with a keen eye, positive energy, and a genuine love for guest service.”

Bosun – Ozan DEGIRMENCI
Born in Turkey in 1986, Ozan is a seasoned maritime professional with nearly two decades of experience in watersports and yachting. After beginning his career as a watersports instructor at age 16, he progressed to become a charter fleet manager and later transitioned fully into the yachting industry, where he is steadily building his path towards becoming a captain.

Ozan has worked aboard a variety of prestigious yachts including M/Y Starburst III (47m), M/Y Bleu de Nîmes (72m), and M/Y Lord of the Seas (60m), serving as Bosun and Lead Deckhand. His responsibilities have ranged from tender driving, maintenance, and guest services to big game fishing support and safety operations.

Highly dynamic and communicative, Ozan is known for his guest engagement skills and technical knowledge in watersports, line handling, varnishing, and navigation. He holds a Master 3000 license as well as advanced safety and technical certifications (GMDSS GOC, BRM, ECDIS, AEC1 & AEC2).

“I believe every guest deserves not just a safe journey, but an unforgettable experience. That’s what drives my work every day on board.”