Askari Crew

Claud and Askari have been inseparable for over twelve years, first as chief engineer and now as captain. Askari has relied on Claud to maintain her entire complement of machinery, running gear and deck equipment.

A South African, Claud has an easy, humorous nature and enjoys speaking to Askari guests from around the world. One of Claud’s unique attributes is his ability to include each guest in the excitement Askari offers each day. You will often find him passing the fishing line off to a thrilled guest to land a marlin or a tuna capturing the moment of what it is like to feel the landing of a big catch in open ocean.

Clipping someone into kite boarding gear for their first time or patrolling the decks listening to Askari’s engineering spaces hum, you will find Claud is always ready with a smile, a laugh and a “let’s go for it!” attitude. Claud holds a MCA 200 Tons Unlimited as well as a PADI Dive Master rating.

However, Claud’s most valuable assets cannot be captured on paper. He is one of the rare crew members who make the time to take you under his wing and include you in the incredible adventures of daily life here aboard Askari.
 

From the small fishing village of Paternoster on South Africa’s west coast, Timothy is a 3rd generation marine engineer. Like his father and grandfather before him, the understanding of ship engines came naturally and a life long relationship with the sea began.

Timothy spent his teenage years with the National Sea Rescue Institute and since then has enjoyed working in many areas of the marine industry. Currently sailing a classic yacht around the world with his wife, he takes time to join Askari as relief engineer when the need arises.

 

 
 

Our chef Kyle has over 10 years’ kitchen experience before joining the yachting industry.

A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu culinary school in Ottawa, On and trained under Michelin starred Chefs at Canada's most critically acclaimed venues. Kyle progressed to senior positions at 4-5 Diamond and Rlelais & Chateau venues before accepting a position at the Canadian Prime Minister's private restaurant in The House of Commons, and eventually as a private chef in New Zealand, Montenegro and the Caribbean.
 

Brian has come from the South African coastal town of Port Elizabeth to French Polynesia with a mind open to new experiences and culture.

After only a short time onboard Askari, he has been spellbound by Tahitian beauty. The French language, tropical water sports and local cuisine are exciting new additions to his way of life. He will soon know each secret spot in the islands to find action and adventure or just a quiet beach to enjoy the sunset under a coconut tree. With a quick wit and constant grin, Brian is a happy addition to the Askari crew.
 

Bruno’s life on the ocean began at an early age whilst cruising on board his parent’s sailing yacht in the Indian Ocean. These years gave him an excellent grounding in offshore sailing and navigation and founded his love for the sea and travel.

From age 16, he was crewing on board yachts along the South African coast and from there it was a natural progression into professional yachting.  Since 1996 he has captained sail and power yachts up to 156 feet in both private and charter fields, and has extensive cruising experience in Pacific, Indian & Atlantic Oceans. Bruno loves being outdoors, especially on the ocean, and is an avid diver, fisherman and kite boarder. He also has a keen interest in photography and snow boarding.

 
 

Aubrey is the magician behind the scenes that makes sure everything from the hot engine room mechanics to the cold air-conditioning electrics is running smoothly and safely.

He is quiet by nature, but if you ask him a question, you will find an eclectic wealth of knowledge. Whether your query is of things nautical or simply who the artist on the radio is, he's usually got the answer. And if he doesn't, he has a ready smile with the shrug he gives you instead.Aubrey started sailing the Pacific Ocean four times and spent years touring the Caribbean and Mediterranean Seas. Besides sailing, he has earned his STCW 95, his Advanced Engineers Cert and is a PADI Open Water Diver.

 

After many years in the professional side of hotel management in Europe, Emma came to Tahiti on a one way ticket to work at the famous Pearl Resort chain. Luckily, Emma found her way to Askari after several land based years in hotel management in the Societies, Tuamotu and the Marquesas.

All of Emma’s prior experience and travel background make her a valuable asset and a pleasure to have onboard. You will often find Emma with her delightful French accent pointing out a special feature of an island coastline while underway, perhaps placing a chocolate on a pillow during evening turn down service or handing out dry towels on the sundeck.

Her genuineness, attention to detail and caring nature will enhance your stay. Emma also is a terrific cook and takes her turn in the galley alongside our talented chef. Her keen interest in food and service are an unbeatable combination for Askari guests.

Emma’s passion for the islands is revealed in her extensive knowledge of the islands and she welcomes the opportunity to share her insights with all the Askari guests.

 

 
 

Anne Line worked on Askari in French Polynesia several years ago.

She was then offered a wonderful opportunity aboard a famous boat in the Med so we said farewell to her for two years. Anne is returning to Askari for a busy charter season and together with Emma, our guests will be cared for with the wonderful attention that these girls provide so naturally.