CHAMPAGNE HIPPY

Christian Santalucía Captain
Spanish | Brazilian

Sail and Work Experience

Christian is an experienced yacht captain with over 20 years in the yachting industry, specialising in luxury sailing yachts from 60–125ft. He has commanded prestigious yachts including S/Y AYNI (Oyster 885), where he managed Mediterranean and Caribbean seasons as well as a transatlantic crossing, overseeing all vessel operations, owner liaison, maintenance planning and budgets. He has also served as Relief Captain onboard S/Y KAILUA (Sunreef 74), managing high-end charter operations, and has captained a variety of Oyster, Lagoon and custom sailing yachts in both private and charter programmes. Earlier roles include Captain of S/Y BEATOO and First Mate aboard S/Y CHALLENGER 93, building extensive offshore, transatlantic and leadership experience.

Job Description

The Captain is responsible for navigation, safety, the overall running and financial management of the vessel, crew and guests. He ensures the safe and efficient operation of the yacht at all times, including compliance with all safety procedures and regulations. He takes care of adhering to flag regulations, port state and local laws and regulations, and manages the crew to ensure adherence to, and a full understanding of, the vessel’s policies. He provides daily leadership for the crew and encourages teamwork, individual growth and personal development by delegating duties and supervising all crew tasks.

Licences and Qualifications

• RYA Yachtmaster Ocean (Commercially Endorsed)
• MCA GMDSS GOC
• STCW
• Advanced Fire Fighting
• Medical First Aid
• AEC / AEC1
• HELM
• ECDIS
• Navigation & Radar
• ENG1
• Chief Mate <3000GT (in progress)

Languages

Spanish, English



Casey De Lange Chef
German | South African

Sail and Work Experience

Casey is an experienced yacht chef with a background as both a Sole Chef and Crew Chef on sailing and motor yachts up to 77m. She has worked onboard S/Y TEMPUS FUGIT, M/Y EMOTIONAL, S/Y FREEDOM, S/Y SEAHAWK, M/Y TUMA, M/Y SMERALDA and M/S MERMAID, preparing fresh, health-focused cuisine for both guests and crew while managing provisioning, budgeting and dietary requirements. Her experience spans private and charter programmes, accommodating a wide range of dietary needs including gluten-free, kosher, shellfish allergies and Alpha-gal syndrome. Earlier in her career she also gained valuable experience in interior roles, guest service and housekeeping. Ashore, she has worked as a private chef, interior designer and owner/operator of a dive centre, further strengthening her organisational, leadership and client service skills.

Job Description

The Chef is responsible for planning and preparing high-quality meals for owners, guests and crew while maintaining exceptional hygiene standards throughout the galley. Responsibilities include menu planning, provisioning, budgeting, accommodating dietary requirements, stock control and ensuring the galley operates efficiently while delivering outstanding culinary experiences.

Licences and Qualifications

• MCA Ship's Cook CoC
• Ashburton Certificate in Culinary Arts
• Highfield Level 2 Food Safety in Catering
• STCW
• Proficiency in Designated Security Duties
• RYA Powerboat Level 2
• VHF SRC
• PADI Open Water Instructor
• RYA Competent Crew
• SAMSA CoC Vessels <9m
• Bachelor of Design (Interior Design)
• ENG1

Languages

English

Chris-Mare Fourie Deck/Stew
South African

Sail and Work Experience

Chris-Mare is a service-driven hospitality professional with experience in both shoreside hospitality and the superyacht industry. She has completed temporary Deck/Stew positions onboard M/Y KORU (50m) and M/Y SYMPHONY (101m), assisting with both interior and deck operations, including housekeeping, laundry, ironing, inventory management and maintaining the vessel's presentation. Earlier experience aboard a fishing vessel involved deck operations, fishing gear handling, cleaning, maintenance and catch management. Ashore, she worked as a receptionist at Club Mykonos Langebaan, delivering professional guest services, and as a conveyancer at PP Smit Attorneys, developing strong organisational and administrative skills.

Job Description

A Deck/Stew is responsible for supporting both the deck and interior departments to ensure the yacht is maintained to the highest standards. Duties include housekeeping, laundry, guest service, detailing, line handling, washdowns, assisting with docking operations, tender preparation and maintaining both guest and crew areas. The role requires flexibility, attention to detail and a proactive approach to supporting guests and crew.

Licences and Qualifications

• STCW
• SAMSA Medical
• RYA Practical Sailing Course
• Level 2 Food Safety
• Stewardess Course

Languages

English