
Houbara
Locations
Houbara Overview
Ensuite master’s cabin equipped with a jacuzzi, a queen cabin, and one guest twin cabin convertible to a double cabin with an additional pullman bed.
Pricing
Meet The Crew

Thomas Huyghues Despointes
Captain
Sail and Work Experience
Thomas is an experienced yacht captain with an extensive background in private yachting, charter operations, regattas, and yacht management. Most recently, he captained the 75-foot Sangermani sailing yacht ELSTIR in the Mediterranean, overseeing private operations and racing activities. Previously, he served as captain aboard the 80-foot Sunreef SEACLUSION in the Caribbean and the 80-foot Vismara LUCE GUIDA, cruising between the Mediterranean and Caribbean.
His career also includes captaining the 62-foot Lagoon VACOA and the day-charter catamaran ECOLORATO, accommodating up to 110 passengers. He has worked as a freelance captain on yachts ranging from 50 to 110 feet and served as First Mate and Chief Engineer aboard SMART SPIRIT. In addition, Thomas spent several years as a surf boat pilot for BOURBON OFF SHORE SURF in Central Africa. Earlier in his career, he worked as a yacht broker for A&C YACHT BROKER, specialising in yacht sales, preparation, and deliveries. His experience includes crew management, yacht maintenance, flag-state compliance, and regatta preparation across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, USA, and UK.
Job Description
Thomas is responsible for the overall operation, navigation, safety, and management of the yacht, its crew, and guests. He ensures the vessel operates safely and efficiently while maintaining compliance with flag-state regulations, maritime laws, and onboard safety procedures. He oversees crew recruitment, training, and daily operations, encouraging teamwork and maintaining high standards of service. His responsibilities also include yacht maintenance, technical management, financial and administrative oversight, and the planning and execution of cruising itineraries, charters, and regattas. He ensures that guests enjoy a safe, comfortable, and exceptional experience onboard.
Licences and Qualifications
- Captain 500 GT (Capitaine 500 UMS)
- Captain 200 Sailing – Unlimited (Capitaine 200 Voile Illimité)
- Medical Level III
- General Radio Operator Certificate (CGO)
TBC
Chef
TBC
TBC
Steward / Stewardess
TBC
Jerome Lebelte
Captain FRENCH
Sail and work experience
Jerome has navigated diverse waters throughout his sailing career, from the Caribbean
to the West Mediterranean as well as the Adriatic. Beginning his career as a deckhand
aboard 206ft KOLAHA, he was promoted to First Mate aboard the 175ft DRUMBEAT,
assisting the owner in the Eastern Pacific. He then became captain aboard several
sail and motor vessels across the summer and winter charter season, including the
Lagoon 560 CAPERIC 4, DARWIN SOUND and the Azimut 62 WHITE PEARL. His widerange
experience thus showcases his adeptness in handling different vessels across
various sea conditions. He has further worked as an engineer aboard the 100ft LUNAR
MIST and 108 ft EUGENIA, highlighting his strong technical expertise. Guests can rest
assured of being in safe hands aboard HOUBARA with Jerome at the helm as captain.
Job Description
Jerome 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 HOUBARA, including compliance with all procedures and regulations
that keep our guests safe. 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 catamaran’s policies. He further encourages teamwork, individual
growth, and personal attention in delegating duties and supervising all crew tasks.
Licenses and Certificates
• Master 200
• Master 500
Languages
English, French
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Shailen Sewlall
Chef MAURITIUS
Sail and work experience
Shailen did his initial culinary training in Mauritius before working for renowned hotels
in the Seychelles to gain first-hand experience of different cuisines. He also undertook
Michelin Star experience in Anvers during this time period. From 2005 onwards,
Shailen has worked extensively on both private and charter yachts, ranging from 24
to 124 metres in length! Shailen has a passion for discovering fresh local products
and contemporary presentation of traditional cuisines. He is extremely motivated to
constantly develop his skills and grow professionally. This expert chef is confident in
his ability to create showstopper dishes for crew and guests by combining flavours and
textures using local ingredients from remote places around the world.
Job Description
As the chef, Shailen is responsible for the crew and guest meals throughout the charter.
With his skilful touch and imaginative flair, he creates dishes reminiscent of top-tier
dining experiences. s. Whether it’s haute cuisine or international delights, Emanuele
expertise knows no limits. His love for food is evident in each dish he serves, pleasing
palates and enchanting guests with each mouth-watering bite. From the freshest
local ingredients to seasonal delicacies, he curates a plate that mirrors the essence of
each destination.
Licenses and Certificates
• STCW expiring 05.03.2029
• ENG1 expiring 05.02.2024
• Ships Cook Certificate
• Designated duties
• Food and Hygiene
• Culinary training
• Security Awareness
• Crowd & Crisis management
Languages
English, French
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MARINE LE CLAINCHE
Stewardess
French
Sail and Work Experience
Marine is an enthusiastic and versatile Stewardess with experience working as both a stewardess and cook aboard catamarans and motor yachts ranging from 12 to 45 metres. She has developed strong skills in guest service, housekeeping, meal preparation, watchkeeping, tender driving, and supporting the smooth day-to-day operation of the vessel. In her onboard role, she managed and organised cruises, prepared meals for guests and crew, and maintained high standards of service and housekeeping. Prior to her yachting career, she gained valuable customer service and administrative experience as a travel consultant and sales administration assistant, enhancing her communication and organisational abilities.
Job Description
As a Stewardess, Marine is responsible for delivering exceptional guest service and ensuring the yacht’s interior is maintained to the highest standards. Her duties include housekeeping, laundry, table service, cabin preparation, and assisting with meal service and guest requests. With her cooking experience, she can also support meal preparation for guests and crew while contributing to the overall smooth operation of the yacht and working closely with the rest of the crew.
Licences and Qualifications
• CFBS (Basic Safety Training Certificate) – 2026
• Introduction to Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator)
• Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism and Technology – 2010
• Higher National Diploma (HND) in Tourism Sales and Travel Production – 2008
Languages
French, English
Amenities
- VCR/DVD
- Salon Stereo
- Satellite TV
- Sun Awning
- Bimini
- BBQ
- Deck Shower
- Ice Maker
Watersports & Toys
- Water Skis Adult
- Jet Skis
- Wave Runners
- Wakeboards
- Stand-up Paddle Boards
- Snorkel Gear
- Fishing Gear

























