Captain: James Speed
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 Captain 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.
Chief Engineer: Omar Brown
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
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.
3rd Stewardess/Masseuse: Karle Schoeman
Karle grew up on the beautiful coast of South Africa, where her passion for hospitality and people began at a young age. With seven years of experience in the industry and a degree in Bcom Hospitality Management, she has honed her skills in delivering exceptional guest experiences. Her passion for wellness led her to Bali, Indonesia, where she completed a three-month Spa Management, deepening her expertise in holistic-well being. Karle loves traveling, being outdoors, and going on new adventures.
2nd Stewardess: Emma Bell
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.
Deckhand: Kegan Smith
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
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.
Rotational Engineer: Desean Willaims
With over a decade of marine engineering experience and a strong foundation in both commercial shipping and luxury yachting, Desean is a dedicated and detail-oriented Chief Engineer. He has served aboard prestigious charter yachts like M/Y Carpe Diem and M/Y SOLO, bringing deep expertise in CAT engine systems, preventive maintenance, shipyard refits, and high-performance operations across the Med, Caribbean, and Bahamas.
Known for his hands-on approach and calm under pressure, Desean ensures every voyage runs smoothly, safely, and efficiently. Off duty, he's an adrenaline enthusiast who enjoys extreme sports and skydiving—bringing the same bold spirit to his work that he takes to the skies.
