Crew
Robert Bell — Captain
Languages: English
Captain Robert's journey began with an Honours Degree in Economics from Kingston University London in 1995, but his true passion has always been the sea.
With over 25 years of experience, he has become a seasoned captain with countless adventures and vast knowledge navigating yachts across the Mediterranean,
Caribbean, and Pacific. Nearly a decade spent on the legendary Maltese Falcon refined his expertise in some of the world’s most stunning cruising grounds.
In 2024, Captain Robert joined Burrasca, bringing his extensive experience and adventurous spirit to her helm. Beyond sailing, Robert enjoys classic cars,
cutting-edge tech gadgets, flying drones, film, and reading. With every new chapter, his passion for the sea grows stronger, and he eagerly anticipates
the thrilling adventures ahead.
Vasilis Kavvadias – Relief / Permanent Captain
Languages: Greek
Captain Vasilis brings over 15 years of experience in both private and charter yacht operations, with a strong reputation for professionalism,
calm leadership, and delivering exceptional guest experiences. A graduate of the Merchant Marine Academy (2006), he holds a captain’s license
and has navigated extensively across the Mediterranean and beyond, leading multicultural crews and ensuring safe, smooth, and enjoyable
voyages for owners and guests.
His expertise spans navigation, safety management, and high-standard vessel operations, whether for luxury charters or private ownership.
With a trusted, experienced crew ready to join him, he offers immediate operational readiness. Outside yachting, he enjoys cooking,
producing music, and water sports — passions that reflect his dynamic, hands-on style of leadership.
Andre Castro E Silva — Chief Officer
Languages: English, Portuguese
Andre began sailing at age 7 in the Azores, where his love for the ocean was born. Since then, he has developed strong skills in
both deck operations and engineering, eager to broaden his knowledge and experience within the yachting industry. Known for his
upbeat personality and positive attitude, Andre thrives in collaborative, team-oriented environments.
Highly motivated and dependable, he approaches all tasks with dedication, a strong work ethic, and focus on quality. He has
recently gained hands-on experience in various operational roles, proving himself as a reliable and adaptable crew member. Outside
of work, Andre enjoys watersports like kitesurfing and bodyboarding, as well as hiking and exploring new places— interests that
reflect his energetic and curious nature.
Steffen Deutschmann — Chief Engineer
Languages: English, German
Steffen, known affectionately as “Chief”, brings a wealth of experience to the team, with a background that spans commercial ships,
superyachts, and the German Navy. He’s the go-to person for anything technical onboard—from engines and electrics to all the behind-the-scenes
components that keep the boat running perfectly, day and night!
Chief has a wealth of knowledge of diesel-electric systems and a sharp eye for detail. His work has taken him across the Med,
the Caribbean, and further afield, always with a focus on reliability and smart preventative maintenance. Chief ensures Burrasca is
operating at her best, so guests can enjoy the journey without a hitch.
George Savvopoulos — 2nd Engineer
Languages: English, Greek
George is a seasoned Class C Marine Engineer with a strong background in the commercial shipping world, having spent years working on
tanker vessels across the globe. His experience includes managing large-scale projects and ensuring everything is up to scratch when
it comes to safety and compliance.
In addition to his engineering skills, George is also comfortable on deck, lending a hand with anchor operations and general maintenance
when needed. He recently wrapped up a successful Caribbean charter season and two Atlantic crossings with S/Y Burrasca.
Curious by nature and always looking to grow, George enjoys travelling and reading in his downtime. He brings a calm, focused energy
to the team and is always ready to get stuck in wherever he’s needed.
Raphael Brenaud — Chef
Languages: English, French
Meet Raphael, a French culinary maestro with a passion for creating unforgettable dishes! After graduating from the
prestigious Culinary School in Lyon in 1993, he kicked off his career in style at a Michelin-starred restaurant, where
his skills truly began to shine. Before setting sail into the yachting world, Raphael refined his craft in high-end
restaurants in Cannes and Megève and even worked as a private chef for some seriously VIP families.
Raphael's first superyacht gig was as Head Chef aboard a 75-meter sailing yacht, where he spent a year cooking up a storm.
From there, he went on to work on a variety of yachts, traveling the world and constantly elevating his culinary game.
Whether in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, or beyond, on private or charter yachts, Raphael thrives under pressure, mastering
the art of catering to all kinds of tastes and nationalities, always delivering top-notch cuisine with a side of flair.
Get ready for some seriously delicious meals on board, as he brings his culinary expertise and passion for exceptional
dining to every dish he creates. Bon appétit!
Gabriela Orzechowski — Chief Stewardess
Languages: English
Gabriela has a Fine Arts Degree from Stellenbosch University and a flair for elegant service and she brings creativity and care to her role as
Chief Stewardess. She grew up between the South African coastline and a world- renowned wine region (Cape Winelands) and spent her early
career working in top restaurants, art galleries, and boutique sporting events—developing a strong foundation in luxury hospitality and
guest experience, as well as a passion for South African wines.
Over the past seven years, Gabriela has worked on both sailing and motor yachts of all sizes, combining her love of the ocean with a
passion for beautifully curated interiors. A lifelong sailor and ocean enthusiast, Gabriela’s interests include yoga, floral styling,
hiking, rock climbing, open-water swimming, and exploring the wild corners of Southern Africa—with a film camera in hand and an eye for
beauty in the details.
Stefania Pepe — 2nd Stewardess
Languages: English, Spanich
Stefania is an energetic and motivated stewardess from Argentina with over four years of experience on private and charter yachts,
complemented by more than five years in the hospitality industry. Known for her strong work ethic, sharp attention to detail, and
guest-focused approach, she maintains high standards of service with a calm, positive, and drama-free demeanor.
Fluent in English and Spanish, with basic knowledge of French, Stefania is a confident communicator and a strong team player who adapts well to
fast-paced, multicultural environments. Her interests include yoga, Pilates, team sports, photography, outdoor activities, studying,
and community service, reflecting her active and well-rounded personality.
Tikopia Greene — 3rd Stewardess
Languages: English, Swedish
Tiki’s connection to the ocean started early, sailing between Sweden and St. Maarten as a child onboard her parent’s 45-foot sloop, who are both
avid sailors. That sense of adventure naturally evolved into a career in yachting, where she’s built a strong foundation in interior service
and guest care across a range of vessels.
Onboard, Tikopia takes pride in creating a warm, welcoming environment for guests—always with a creative touch. Whether it’s ensuring every space
is immaculate or mixing your favourite cocktail in record time, she brings enthusiasm and attention to detail to everything she does.
Outside of work, Tikopia enjoys hiking, sailing, and photography—interests that reflect both her active lifestyle and her appreciation for the
small details that make each journey special.
Tomas Marques — Bosun
Languages: English, Portuguese
Tomas was born in Porto, Portugal, and has developed a distinguished sailing career with strong expertise in rigging. Starting in dinghy
sailing classes, he progressed to the 420 class and was a member of the Portuguese Olympic team for the 470 class from 2012 to 2014.
He competed at the highest level in European and World Championships, achieving notable results.
After his competitive career, Tomas coached Laser and 420 sailors for six years, transitioning into yacht racing where he secured several
titles. His tuning and optimization skills highlight his technical mastery and commitment to performance. Passionate about watersports,
he enjoys kitesurfing and wing-foiling, which complement his active ocean lifestyle.
Jonathan De Oliveira — Deckhand
Languages: English
Originally from South Africa, Jonathan holds a bachelor’s degree in Politics and Psychology. His lifelong fascination with the sea inspired
him to pursue a career in yachting, where he has gained valuable hands- on experience across various regions and vessel types.
Highly driven and energetic, Jonathan is committed to developing his skills further with the clear goal of advancing to bosun and eventually
captain. His enthusiasm for diving and travel perfectly complements his adventurous spirit and passion for exploring the world by sea.
Known for his strong work ethic, adaptability, and positive attitude, Jonathan thrives in dynamic, team-oriented environments and embraces
every opportunity to learn and grow professionally.