Crew Profile
Captain: Sammy Koetsier
Born in Portugal with the Atlantic Ocean as his backyard, Sammy has been captivated by sailing since childhood.
His lifelong passion for the sea led him to a career navigating some of the world’s most stunning and remote locations.
As Captain of S/Y Thandeka, he brings calm leadership, expert seamanship, and an adventurous spirit, ensuring every voyage is both safe and exhilarating.
When he’s not at the helm, Sammy loves hiking, discovering new cultures, and sharing great meals and stories with his crew and guests.
Chef: Maarten Binksma
Hailing from the Netherlands but now calling Curaçao home, Maarten is the culinary mastermind behind Thandeka’s incredible dining experiences.
Whether it’s a gourmet feast under the stars or comforting dishes to keep spirits high in rough seas, Maarten’s passion for flavor, fresh ingredients, and creativity shines through every dish.
Beyond the galley, he doubles as a park ranger, bringing his love for nature and sustainability into every aspect of his cooking.
He ensures that guests experience the best of international and local cuisine!
Deckhand/ Dive Instructor: Jeriel Joseph
Originally from the Andaman Islands, Jeriel started his journey with Thandeka as a local dive guide before quickly becoming an irreplaceable member of the crew.
With years of experience running his own dive school, he knows every fish, coral, and hidden underwater wonder by name and loves sharing his knowledge with guests.
Beyond diving, Jeriel has a talent for photography, capturing the beauty of the ocean above and below the surface.
Known for his contagious laughter and joyful energy, he ensures that the crew and guests are always in high spirits.
He’s the perfect mix of professionalism and fun!
Stewardess / Masseuse: Hanni Ajik
Hanni brings warmth, expertise, and relaxation to the guest experience aboard
Thandeka.
Whether curating impeccable service or providing soothing therapeutic massages, she
ensures that guests feel pampered and at ease throughout their journey.
When she’s not attending to guests, she dedicates her time to caring for her three dogs
and 18 cats—a testament to her compassionate nature.
Passionate about animal welfare and outdoor adventures, Hanni adds a gentle and
nurturing touch to life on board.
She is here to make your journey even more special!
