Captain: Sylvain Lesniak
Sail and Work Experience:
Sylvain has never been far from the sea; he began his career in the French Navy working as a firefighter and a submariner before deciding to move into the commercial sailing sector. It did not take him long to gain a wealth of experience. He has clocked up thousands of miles on yachts such as M/Y Printemps, S/Y Manu, S/Cat Araok and now finds himself as captain aboard FREE AT LAST. He also has a lots of racing experience having participated in several regattas.
Job Description:
Sylvain is responsible for navigation, safety, the overall running and financial management of the vessel, crew, and guests. He always ensures the safe and efficient operation of the yacht, including compliance with all safety procedures and regulations. He takes care of adhering to flag regulations, port state and local laws and regulations, and manages the crew to ensure adherence to, and a full understanding of, the vessel’s policies. He provides daily leadership for the crew and encourages teamwork, individual growth, and personal attention by delegating duties and supervising all crew tasks.
Licenses & Certificates:
• ENG 1 – BST / STCW 2010
• Yacht Master Ocean – GMDSS / CGO
• First Rescue Formation - MEDICAL 3
• Federal Sailing Instructor
Deckhand: Dimitri Lesniak
Sail and Work Experience:
Following a successful career in the French police force, Dimitri has decided to follow his passion for sailing and train as a yacht deckhand. Often enjoying sailing on smaller boats in his free time, Dimitri is comfortable with being out on the water and handling equipment. Dimitri is eager to join the crew of FREE AT LAST which includes his brother, Sylvain as Captain, and learn the ropes of yachting from a familiar expert.
Job Description:
Dimitri has the expertise required to stand in for the captain in his absence, acting in an important role for deckhand duties. He assists the captain during navigation and participates in all on-deck operations, respecting guests’ activities. He has extensive knowledge of the maintenance of sailing yachts and is responsible for the running of deck equipment and machinery.
Licenses & Certificates:
Mechanic Training (Diesel Marine Engine and Electricity Onboard)
Deckhand Training
STCW Basic Safety Training Certificate
Stewardess: Martina Giusa
Sail and Work Experience:
Beginning her yachting career as a stewardess in 2017, Martina has always had excellent organisational skills in both team and individual work, respecting deadlines and problem solving where necessary. Martina has managed interior teams on smaller sailing and motor yachts before, gaining leadership skills and a refined ability to anticipate the needs of guests onboard.
Job Description:
Martina is responsible for organization, management, and cleanliness of all interiors. She maintains an accurate inventory of all service items and supplies. She ensures cleaning and preparation of the vessel to the highest standards prior to all guest trips. In charge of vessel provisioning for both guests and crew, and all aspects of daily life. When guests are onboard, she ensures they are properly cared for and that all their requirements are met. She offers a particular attention to details and a polite and entertaining spirit.
Licenses & Certificates:
Survival Course (security training for seafarers with designated security duties)
AIS (Italian Sommelier Association) Certificate
Chef: Martina La Lumia
Sail and Work Experience:
A yacht chef since 2020, Martina has quickly risen through the ranks and gained experience on yachts such as M/Y Aria and S/Y Blue Destiny. Before joining the yachting world and transforming her passion for gourmet cuisine into her professional job, Martina worked as a social worker for many years. Trained in Malta, Martina offers a high standard of service and enjoys using creativity to produce memorable dishes.
Job Description:
As the Chef, Martina is responsible for the crew and guest meals throughout the charter, ensuring that the food is enjoyable, the interior of the yacht is clean and serviceable and that all dietary requirements are met. She is a creative cook, varying her meals to provide variety and according to the location of FREE AT LAST, to have as much relevance as possible to the country being visited.
Licenses & Certificates:
Master’s Degree in Social Work and Social Policies
Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work
