STAY SALTY

Crew Info:

Captain- James Speed- South African
James Speed grew up in a small town in South Africa and has been immersed in the marine industry for over 10 years. He has a love for the ocean and is passionate about travel which ultimately drew him to a life on the water. Yachting has fueled this passion and taken him to Mediterranean, Baltic Sea, Russia, Eastern Europe, North and Central America. Having been on various well run charter vessels James has extensive experience and knowledge and will ensure that your time onboard is filled with adventure and fun. James leads from the front and has a professional, enthusiastic yet still easy-going leadership style. In 2022 he married chief stewardess Jessie Speed and together they aim to ensure your Stay Salty experience is incredible. When James is not on the ocean, he will be Wing Foiling, Fishing, spearfishing, Kayaking, or adventuring in the mountains on two wheels or by foot.

Rotational Captain- Jared Steyn
Rotational every 10 weeks: With over a decade at sea and a proven track record in leading luxury yacht operations, Captain Jared Steyn is dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences for owners and guests alike. Skilled in navigation, crew management, and operational efficiency, he brings a meticulous approach to safety, service, and adventure. An avid scuba diver and outdoor enthusiast, he loves exploring the underwater world, kiteboarding, hiking, and off-roading, always seeking new ways to connect with nature. With expertise in refit projects, financial management, and advanced technology integration, Captain Jared combines precision with leadership to foster a professional, motivated crew. Whether cruising the Mediterranean, Caribbean, or beyond, he ensures every voyage is smooth, exciting, and unforgettable.

FIRST MATE- Arno Laubscher- South African
Arno was born in South Africa. He obtained provincial colors in Archery and Triathlon and was very
competitive in Water polo. From a young age Arno was involved in boats and water sports and joined the yachting industry in 2019 in Antibes, France. He has spent the past few years crossing the oceans between the Mediterranean, Caribbean and USA, living his passion for the ocean joining superyachts to build his knowledge in the industry. Arno has joined the prestigious Yacht STAY SALTY and he is looking forward to building up his career and achieving his goal to become a captain. Arno will ensure that guests aboard will have the time of their lives getting to enjoy the water toys included.


Chief Engineer- Omar Browm- Jamacian
Born in St. Ann, Jamaica and studied Marine Engineering at the Caribbean Maritime University and Mechanical Engineering at University of Technology, Jamaica. Omar embarked on his engineering experience working in the commercial industry on vessels such as Oil tankers, Tugboats, Offshore Supply Vessels and Passenger Ships. Omar holds his 111/11 unlimited management level and a degree in maritime engineering. IN 2007 Omar decided to transition into the Yachting industry. During this period Omar was privileged to cruise places such as France, Italy, Monaco, Turkey, Croatia. Greece, Bahamas, Caribbean, South Pacific, and the Florida Keys. Having joined STAY SALTY at the beginning of the year he has been an invaluable asset to the team and is looking forward to this upcoming Winter season. If Omar is not in the engine room, you can find him playing or watching soccer or producing and listening to music.


Chief Stewardess- Kirsten Putziger- South African
Kirsten, born and raised in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, has a strong passion for events and marketing. She then spent over six years working in sports marketing and hospitality for prestigious clients in South Africa, Kirsten also served as the events coordinator and wedding planner for a renowned 5-star wine estate near Stellenbosch. Discovering the world of yachting has been an enriching experience for Kirsten, allowing her to travel to various countries and experience diverse cultures. She enjoys the outdoors and spends time on her family farm in South Africa whenever possible. Kirsten is committed to maintaining high standards and has a passion for welcoming guests and looking forward to having you onboard M/Y Stay Salty for a memorable trip.

2nd Stewardess- Emma Bell- South African
Emma grew up in the vibrant landscapes of Cape Town with captivating beaches, majestic mountains, and renowned wine farms. She thrives on the thrill of exploration and constantly seeking new trails in nature. Emma’s academic pursuit in clothing studies cultivated a deep passion for creativity, and a keen eye for design; one day pursuing her own creative venture or business. Emma embraces the opportunity of meeting new people and new experiences. Emma embraces the opportunity of meeting new people and new experiences.

3RD stewardess/masseuse- Karle Schoeman- South African
Karle brings a blend of professional expertise and positive attitude. Her background in Hospitality Management, housekeeping, food & beverage service are what makes Karle an amazing addition to STAY SALTY. She previously got to explore Europe for a few months while working on yachts there. Like most yachties, Karle loves to take in all the breathtaking views of nature that she gets to explore as her career in yachting takes off. She loves to be in the ocean soaking up the sun any chance she gets and also enjoys playing the Ukulele and dancing the night away.


Deckhand- Keagan Smith- South African
With a lifelong passion for the ocean, Keagan Smith brings energy, skill, and enthusiasm to every charter experience. As a PADI Dive Instructor and experienced deckhand, he thrives in fast-paced yachting environments, expertly handling deck operations, tender driving, and watersports instruction. Whether leading guests on exhilarating wakeboarding sessions, guiding underwater explorations, or ensuring the deck is in top condition, Keagan’s strong work ethic and positive attitude make him a valuable crew member. When he’s not on the water, he enjoys playing the ukulele and drums, bringing music and good vibes to the crew. Adventurous and adaptable, he is always eager to enhance the guest experience while growing within the superyacht industry.

Chef -Diana Sitnikova- Ukrainian
Diana was born & raised in Ukraine. With over a decade of yachting in the books, she has excelled in the industry, starting in the interior and working her way up to a senior stewardess position and a passion for working in the galley. She honed her culinary skills at a renowned French gastronomic academy, and she continuously seeks new recipes and ideas. When Diana is not delivering world class cuisine you can find her keeping herself busy with painting, drawing, photography, and keeping active with sports.