Wouts and Kelly are confirmed aboard Omakase for the 2026-2027 charter season! 

Captain WOUTER HANEKOM

Hailing from South Africa, Wouter Hanekom, affectionately known as "Wouts," has spent his life navigating the shimmering waters of the world. Born with a passion for aquatic adventures, he cultivated his love for the sea during idyllic weekends spent on family retreats, where watersports became an integral part of his upbringing.

Wouter's journey into the world of sailing began with these cherished family outings. His knack for mastering the waves and imparting his skills to others soon led him to a career in sailing. He embarked on his maritime odyssey by navigating the pristine waters of the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, working for a renowned flotilla company.

In his pursuit of the perfect wind and waves, Wouter became a sailing instructor. Over the years, he had the privilege of teaching and kindling the same fervour for sailing in others that had ignited his own. His dedication to fostering a love for the sport reached its zenith as he honed his expertise and shared his wisdom.

Not one to be tethered to a single horizon, Wouter's recent exploits have seen him undertake remarkable journeys. From the southern tip of Cape Town, he set sail on a remarkable voyage that stretched all the way to the enchanting shores of Grenada. He delivered several yachts across the Caribbean along the way, proving his mettle as a seasoned seafarer.

When he's not navigating the open waters, Wouter finds solace in chartering yachts in the serene havens of The Bahamas and the British Virgin Islands. His extensive experience isn't just anecdotal; he holds the prestigious RYA Yachtmaster Offshore ticket and is a fully Certified ASA instructor, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to excellence in sailing.

Captain Wouter Hanekom, with his wealth of knowledge and his infectious passion for the sea, welcomes every opportunity to share his expertise and love of sailing with those fortunate enough to sail under his command. Onboard Wouts inspires a shared sense of adventure, making every voyage an unforgettable experience.


Chef|First Mate KELLY SARGENT

Kelly Sargent's journey into the world of yachting is a testament to the transformative power of serendipitous adventures. In 2016, she stumbled upon her inaugural charter experience in the breathtaking Whitsunday Islands while on a solo sojourn to Australia. Little did she know that this encounter with the open sea would chart the course of her life.

In the following year, Kelly's thirst for exploration led her to Croatia and the Caribbean, where she set sail on several unforgettable journeys. These voyages became more than just vacations; they sparked the inspiration for a monumental life change. Driven by a newfound passion, Kelly bid adieu to her career as a designer in London and embarked on a new odyssey – a career in yachting.

In 2019, Kelly embarked on a culinary adventure on the water, weaving her culinary magic around the picturesque landscapes of Greece and Croatia. Her culinary skills and penchant for crafting delectable dishes earned her a place on prestigious yachts. More recently, she extended her culinary expertise to the paradisiacal shores of The Bahamas and the British Virgin Islands, solidifying her reputation as a culinary virtuoso.

Born into a family with an innate talent for cooking, Kelly's love for the kitchen blossomed from an early age. It was no surprise to her loved ones when she decided to hone her culinary prowess. Kelly's commitment to her craft led her to attend culinary schools of distinction, including The Avenue Cookery School and Ashburton Cookery School. These institutions only refined her culinary skills and intensified her passion for concocting dishes that marry flavours and textures, often with a delightful Mediterranean twist.

What sets Kelly apart is her extraordinary adaptability and dedication to guest satisfaction. She has the unique ability to cater to a diverse range of dietary requirements, crafting menus as unique as the individuals on board. Whether it's a preference for vegetarian cuisine, gluten-free fare, or any other dietary consideration, Kelly's culinary creations are sure to delight the palate.

Kelly Sergent, the maestro of the galley, brings not only her culinary expertise but also her boundless enthusiasm for creating gastronomic marvels to every voyage. Aboard the yacht, she transforms the dining experience into a culinary journey, infusing every dish with passion and creativity, ensuring that every guest's culinary desires are not only met but exceeded.
 

Wouter "Wouts" Hanekom

Captain

South African

Languages: AfrikaansEnglish

Kelly Sargent

Chef | First Mate