With over 20 years of experience in the yachting industry, Ben is a highly capable and approachable Captain with a strong background across both private and charter yachts. Having commanded vessels up to 40 metres and worked aboard yachts up to 114 metres, he brings extensive expertise in navigation, yacht management, engineering, and guest-focused operations.
Throughout his career, Ben has successfully managed busy charter seasons, Mediterranean cruising programmes, refits, and new-build projects while consistently maintaining high standards of safety, professionalism, and onboard comfort. His calm leadership style, combined with strong hands-on technical knowledge, ensures smooth daily operations behind the scenes, allowing guests to fully relax and enjoy their experience onboard with complete confidence.
Known for his personable nature and professional approach, Ben creates a welcoming, relaxed, and well-organised atmosphere for both guests and crew alike. His extensive cruising experience, attention to detail, and genuine passion for hospitality help deliver seamless, memorable charters aboard UKIEL, where guest comfort, safety, and enjoyment always remain the priority.

Ben Edwards
Captain
Sinan, the First Mate embarked on a diverse and dynamic journey into the maritime world. Graduating from an Open Education High School, he set his course through various professional experiences. He began his career as a store manager at Magic Life Hotels, showcasing his aptitude for management. His passion for sailing then led him to the graceful vessel named White Wings, where he first embraced the art of sailing.
In 2010, he transitioned to the Sea Lion motor yacht, further honing his maritime skills and expertise. Following this, he assumed the role of a restaurant manager, a position that allowed him to expand his talents in hospitality. His journey also took him to Dubai, where he served as a chef and deck leader on the motor yacht named Free Day, deepening his understanding of both culinary and nautical arts. Today, he continues his maritime odyssey aboard Ukiel, contributing his skills and experience to ensure every voyage is a success.

Sinan Coskuner
First Officer
Emre is a talented and guest-focused yacht chef with experience across luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, and charter yachts. Specialising in Mediterranean cuisine, seafood, and modern fine dining, he creates fresh, tailored menus designed around guest preferences and the relaxed luxury of life onboard. Having worked in high-end hospitality environments including Maxx Royal Bodrum, Hilton, and Six Senses, Emre brings strong culinary discipline, creativity, and attention to presentation to every charter. His experience aboard charter yachts has further developed his ability to deliver refined dining experiences in a fast-paced and dynamic onboard environment.
Emre has also worked alongside Michelin-starred chefs Alfredo Russo and Cristina Bowerman, experiences that helped shape his refined approach to flavour, plating, and service standards. Calm, organised, and adaptable under pressure, he is passionate about creating memorable dining moments — from relaxed Mediterranean lunches to elegant fine dining dinners at sea. Professional, approachable, and dedicated to guest satisfaction, Emre plays an important role in delivering the welcoming and high-quality onboard experience aboard UKIEL.

Emre Güler
Chef
With over a decade of experience in the yachting industry, Berkay is a highly experienced Bosun with a strong operational background and extensive knowledge of Mediterranean cruising. His career has combined hands-on yacht operations with guest-focused service, giving him a well rounded understanding of both technical deck management and the high standards expected aboard luxury charter yachts.
Over the years, Selman has worked aboard private and charter yachts in a
variety of roles including deckhand, skipper, and captain, developing solid
expertise in navigation, safety management, deck operations, crew coordination, and guest interaction.Having accumulated extensive sea mileage and many years of hands-on experience at sea, Selman combines strong seamanship with a calm, disciplined, and solution-oriented approach onboard.
His background across charter, private, and training yachts allows him to confidently support all aspects of deck operations while maintaining a relaxed and professional atmosphere for guests onboard. Professional, reliable, and highly adaptable, Selman plays a key role in maintaining the high presentation, safety, and service standards aboard UKIEL, helping deliver smooth and enjoyable charter experiences throughout every season.

Berkay Budak
Bosun
Jakub is a motivated and energetic Deck Steward with a positive, guest-focused approach and a strong passion for hospitality, travel, and life at sea. Friendly, approachable, and highly adaptable, he plays an important role in creating a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere onboard while supporting the smooth day-to-day operation of UKIEL.
Combining deck support with guest service responsibilities, Jakub assists with onboard hospitality, guest comfort, watersports preparation, and maintaining the yacht’s presentation to a high standard throughout each charter. His active lifestyle and background in sports, including sailing, basketball, and volleyball, have shaped his disciplined, team-oriented,and hardworking character. Currently studying Economics at university, Jakub brings a professional mindset, strong communication skills, and excellent attention to detail to his role onboard. With advanced English proficiency and a genuine enthusiasm for meeting new people and discovering new places, he contributes positive energy, reliability, and a strong service mentality to
every charter experience aboard UKIEL.

Jakub Kowalczyk
Polish, English