SEMELA Yacht Charter

Captain: Suat Sakar

Suat Sakar
Captain
Turkish
Suat Sakar is a seasoned Yacht Captain with over three decades of hands-on experience in the maritime industry. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership in managing luxury yacht operations, ensuring the highest standards of safety, maintenance, and guest satisfaction. Having captained both private and charter yachts across the Mediterranean, Red Sea, and Gulf regions, Suat has built a strong reputation for professionalism, discretion, and a calm command presence on board. His most recent role as Captain of the 24-meter M/Y Gaviota del Mar saw him successfully lead operations for a decade without any crew turnover—a rare testament to his reliability and crew management skills. His navigational routes have included the Greek Islands, Croatia, Turkey, Sicily, Malta, and beyond.

Fluent in English and Turkish with a basic command of Arabic, Suat also holds an array of international certifications including the Turkish Yachtmaster License (up to 500GT) and the IYT Master of Yachts 200GT Offshore (MCA recognized). He has worked on new builds, prepared yachts for charter, and delivered seamless experiences for both owners and guests. An avid sailor, diver, and swimmer, he thrives in active environments where water sports and adventure are part of the daily rhythm. On land, he enjoys trekking, exploring new cultures through travel, and spending time in nature. His creative side shines through in his love for cooking, writing poetry, and theater, while his social, outgoing personality makes him a natural host who easily connects with guests and crew alike. Suat’s friendly energy, combined with his years of experience, make him an ideal fit for creating exceptional charter experiences.

Casey Jade Symons
Stewardess/Deckhand
South African
Choosing to pursue a career as a stewardess has been one of Casey Jade’s best decisions, allowing her to combine her love for hospitality, teamwork, and personal growth. With a background in dance at a competitive level, Casey has developed exceptional discipline, commitment, and the ability to think quickly under pressure—qualities that translate seamlessly into the fast-paced world of yachting.
Her training includes the Superyacht Stewardess Course (with expertise in coffee and cocktail making, silver service, table settings and napkin folds, flower arrangements, stain removal, and ironing), as well as certifications such as STCW (valid until 2030), SAMSA Seafarer Medical (valid until 2027), PDSD, Highfield Level 2 in Food Safety for Catering (RQF), and RYA Powerboat Level II. Her strong skills in communication, time management, and attention to detail make her a valuable asset to any crew.
Outside of her professional life, Casey has a lifelong passion for dance—particularly hip hop and contemporary. She has represented her country in competitions, winning medals and trophies, and has proudly been awarded both Western Province and South African Colours for Hip Hop. Beyond the dance floor, she is a nature lover who enjoys hiking, running, and spending time outdoors, reflecting her energetic and adventurous spirit.

Ashley Hunter Kriel
Deckhand
South African
Ashley Hunter Kriel is an enthusiastic and motivated deckhand with a strong foundation in the superyacht industry and a background in mechanical systems, exterior detailing, and guest-focused operations. Professionally trained through the Superyacht Training Academy, he holds a wide range of maritime certifications including STCW, RYA Powerboat, and PADI scuba diving with over 50 dives. His hands-on experience includes polishing and maintaining exterior stainless steel, fiberglass repairs, teak care, line handling, and professional washdowns, along with land-based experience in mechanical draughting, project administration, and team management.
Beyond his professional skills, Ashley is a natural team player with a creative spirit and a love for high-adrenaline and adventurous pursuits. A certified scuba diver and drone enthusiast, he enjoys exploring the world both above and below the water, capturing aerial photography and chasing new challenges. Sport has always been a central part of his life — from rugby and field hockey to the strategy and focus of golf. Off the field, he’s a dedicated gamer, a self-taught guitarist, and a passionate Formula 1 fan who values both physical and mental growth.