TIMELESS RADIANCE
TO THE 8TH EDITION OF THE CREW AWARDS
Welcome to the 2025 Crew Awards, an evening dedicated to celebrating the remarkable talents and dedication within the Superyacht Industry. This prestigious event isn’t just a ceremony; it’s a global platform that celebrates personal achievement while highlighting the collective efforts that drive the industry forward.
This year, we are thrilled to host the event in the vibrant island of Ibiza, under the dazzling theme of “Timeless Radiance”. With a judging panel of respected senior captains and industry professionals, every aspect of excellence will be carefully acknowledged.
From deckhands to engineers, the Crew Awards recognises the dedication and commitment of every nominee who has proven themselves among the very best.
The ACREW Awards stands out for its integrity and is the only one of its kind that truly honours superyacht crew members for their hard work. We deeply appreciate your continued support and hope you enjoy this special evening with us. The Awards represent both personal achievements and industry-wide recognition of professional excellence. Captains and Crew from the industry have been nominated, with finalists and winners selected by our judging panel of 17 former and current senior captains and industry professionals.
This year features 101 finalists across 14 award categories, rewarding all onboard departments for their efforts and dedication to the Superyacht Industry.
TITLE SPONSOR GOLD SPONSORS
AWARD SPONSORS
SUPPORTING SPONSORS
CREW AWARD
AWARD CATEGORIES
EVENT SCHEDULE
FRIDAY 24TH OF OCTOBER
17:00 - 22:00 | WELCOME GET-TOGETHER
SATURDAY 25TH OF OCTOBER
8:00 - 14:00| DAYTIME ACTIVITIES
18:00 - 22:00 | CREW AWARDS CEREMONY
22:00 - 00:00 | CREW AWARDS CELEBRATION
SUNDAY 26TH OF OCTOBER
FAREWELL & DEPARTURE
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BEST SUPERYACHT CREW AWARD
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EMS Yachting supplies premium marine spare parts and components for luxury yachts, specializing in genuine German and European engineering brands. They manage global logistics and sourcing so yacht owners don’t have to deal with complex supply chains. With expertise in the yachting industry, they aim to provide reliable service and high-quality parts worldwide.
The Best Superyacht Crew Award goes to a team that is diverse in skills and therefore can satisfy a multitude of guest or owner wishes. The Crew understands the unique needs and interests of every trip. They delight guests with culinary experiences, provide exciting entertainment with water sports or indulge relaxation seekers with innovative spa treatments whilst always maintaining a safe and pristine vessel. Their attention to detail and personal touch makes them an outstanding Yacht Crew Team.
However it’s not just about the ultimate service; the crew are also a highly trained team, ensuring the safety and security of the yacht and all those on board at all times. Nobody wants to find themselves in a difficult situation. Still, you can rest assured that if you do, the experienced crew will be there to take care of everything in the most professional manner.
JUDGING CRITERIA
Safety Focus
Team Dynamics
Stress Resilient
Communication
Trained Team
Varied Skill Set Onboard
Teamwork Ethic
Professionalism
Guest centric attitude
Finalists
Adaptability & flexibility
Efficiency
Attention to detail
Problem solving skills
Reliability
Personal development
Hospitality
Resilience
Creativity
BEST CAPTAIN MASTER UNLIMITED
AWARD
The Captain (Master Unlimited) Crew Award Captain who has been proven to ensure the safety onboard and moves with the times to tackle new challenges. This captain demonstrates excellent management skills of a large crew. The yacht under command is excellently maintained and managed to the optimum standards.
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Cecil Wright is a luxury yachting firm specializing in yacht sales, charters, and bespoke maritime experiences. They assist clients in buying, selling, and commissioning custom builds, while also managing charter operations and creating tailored voyages. With deep industry expertise, they emphasize precision, exclusivity, and personal service in every engagement.
The Captain communicates effectively on all levels with contractors, crew, owners and guests. In regards to operations; safety, compliance and technology onboard are of paramount importance and never overlooked.
JUDGING CRITERIA
Leadership & coaching
Safety & project management
Clear communication
Financial planning & budgeting
Decision making
Navigation and operation experience
Compilant with relevant laws and regulations
Successful voyage planning
Team management
Strategic planning & visionary thinking
Guest relations & professionalism
Finalists
Roberto Beretta
Ante Juresko
William Henderson
Robert Novak
Greg Foster-James
Shaun Burford
Nikos Sarris
FROM SARDINIA TO THE WORLD,
BEST CAPTAIN MASTER 3000 GT AWARD
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Nautica Assistance is a leading yacht agency and supplier based in Sardinia, offering full support to superyachts cruising in the Mediterranean, especially in Sardinia and Corsica. They provide services ranging from concierge, provisioning, technical assistance, logistics, and yacht interior supplies.
Captain (Master 3000GT) Crew Award recognizes a Captain who has been proven to ensure the safety onboard and demonstrates excellent management skills. This Captain ensures the yacht is maintained and managed to the maximum standards achievable.Multiple seasons and busy itineraries are integral to this career. Taking control of refit projects, managing budgets, and making decisions for small to mid-sized crews is essential.
Finalists
JUDGING CRITERIA
Leadership & coaching
Safety & project management
Clear communication
Financial planning & budgeting
Decision making
Navigation and operation experience
Compilant with relevant laws and regulations
Successful voyage planning
Team management
Strategic planning & visionary thinking
Guest relations & professionalism
Selim Akturk
Dean Pilatti
Charles DuGas-Standish
Pietro Borgo
Clive Harrison
Lance Hartley
Richard Lington
Paul Bladon
Shaula Bolanos
AWARD BEST CAPTAIN MASTER 500 GT
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The Captain (Master 500GT) Crew Award recognizes the achievements of a hands-on Captain who is experienced in working closely with Crew. Managing the budget, ensuring the safety onboard as well as communicating competently are part of their day-to-day role. This Captain holds responsibilities across all operational areas and is the direct line of communication for all boat related matters.
JUDGING CRITERIA
Leadership & coaching
Safety & project management
Clear communication
Financial planning & budgeting
Decision making
Navigation and operation experience Port Nimara will be Anguilla’s first world-class superyacht marina, featuring 118 berths for yachts up to 240+ feet, a five-star hotel, residences, boutiques, restaurants, and the Beaufort Yacht Club. Perfectly located near St. Barths and Sint Maarten, it offers a seamless blend of luxury living and exceptional yachting services.
Compilant with relevant laws and regulations
Successful voyage planning
Strategic planning & visionary thinking
Finalists
Karl Cutajar
Brendan Emmons
Kelly Gordon Daryn Dalton
Sean Rysenbry Guy Guilford
The crew are the heart of the superyacht industry. Thank you for your great commitment to our fleet.
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BEST FIRST OFFICER/MATE CREW AWARD
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Meridian˚ is a leading platform connecting yacht professionals with top job opportunities. Whether you’re a crew member looking for the next contract or an employer seeking qualified candidates, their tools include DirectHire, ConciergeHire, and RecruiterCloud to simplify hiring. Membership is free and the platform aggregates listings globally to make job search and crew recruitment seamless.
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The Crew Award for the First Officer recognizes a combination of great managerial qualities with the exterior crew as well as maintaining the control and safety of the yacht. This First Officer has a clear overview of all yacht operations, not only including handling water toys for the guests and owners use but also navigational passage planning and administrative procedures.
Leadership
Safety management
Finalists
JUDGING CRITERIA
Financial planning & budgeting
Decision making & problem solving
Navigation & seamanship
Technical knowledge
Stress resistant
Ability to assume full responsability
Personnel skills
Time management
Delegation capabilities
Regulatory compliance
Rebecca Denisco
Francesco Miccú Sean Huyton
Gareth Dovey
Johnny Kanaan
Nicholas Muldoon
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BEST CHIEF STEW/PURSER CREW
AWARD
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Purser and Chief-Stew Crew Award highlights exceptional attention to detail in both administrative and interior management tasks for the yacht, crew and guests. This award recognises individuals who excel in provisioning the vessel, displaying strong financial and bookkeeping skills, planning events, and managing concierge tasks. Additionally, it celebrates those who demonstrate extraordinary interior skills and managerial capabilities in general yacht operations, budgeting and decision-making.
JUDGING CRITERIA
Thoughtful leadership
Guest focus
Sea Emporium is a luxury outfitting specialist for superyachts, offering a curated selection of over 20,000 premium interior products. Founded by experienced Chief Stews, the company provides bespoke services for new builds and refits, including sourcing, styling, quality control, and global distribution. Their commitment to excellence ensures each yacht's interior reflects the owner's unique style and vision.
Expertise in hospitality
Organisational skills
Team spirit
Stress resistant
Effective communication
Flexible planning & adaptability
Provisioning & budgeting
Event management & contracting
Negotiation skills
Creative decision making
Solution orientated
Attention to detail
Interpersonal skills
Cultural sensitivity
Time management
Operational efficiency
Innovation
Coaching
Planning
An unrivaled selection of 20,000+ handpicked superyacht interior products from luxury manufacturers and designer brands.
Danielle Hemming
Llewmari Nicolay
Julie Emmons
Danielle De Wet
Isabell Ruehle
Hanna Miranda Sarah Samou Marzocchi
Sydney Evans Sonja Capar
Cantleigh Groenewald Nadine Coronado Macho
Caitlin Nugent
BEST ENGINEER & ETO CREW AWARD
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SUPER is a sophisticated software platform built to streamline and elevate yacht operations from construction and refits to daily maintenance. With modular tools like IoT integration, maintenance tracking, compliance reporting, and after-sales support, it adapts to the needs of single vessels or entire fleets. Available in cloud, hybrid, and onpremise setup, SUPER makes yacht management efficient, transparent, and ready for the future.
This Crew Award is for an Engineer who demonstrates excellent skills in mechanical and electrical operations and is also capable of assisting the crew and guests with technical requests. The Engineer or ETO stays calm in docking and anchoring situations and displays solution focus and innovation. Apart from the extensive technical knowledge required of a yacht’s engine room and machines, the Engineer or ETO helps support the guests and owners proactively with troubleshooting devices onboard.
JUDGING CRITERIA
Flexible
Solution focussed
Technically skilled
Innovative
Attention to detail
Problem solving
Adaptability
Communication skills
Safety awareness
Proactive
Reliability
Time management
Resourcefulness
Enviromental awareness
Waldemar Mueller
Max Whetter
Edgardo Pekic
BEST LEAD DECKHAND/ BOSUN
CREW AWARD
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Superyacht Rubbish provides eco-friendly waste management systems for yachts, including glass crushers, MARPOL-compliant devices, and green cleaning products, helping crews stay efficient and environmentally responsible at sea.
This Crew Award is for a Lead Deckhand/ Bosun who has demonstrated exceptional skills in maintaining the exterior of the yacht and superior knowledge in nautical duties. The award will be given to a Lead Deckhand/ Bosun who excels in leadership, teamwork, and guest handling, showcasing great stamina and a commitment to high standards. This individual is a key asset to the crew, earning the appreciation and respect of both colleagues and the Captain through their dedication and expertise.
JUDGING CRITERIA
Adaptability
Leadership
Solution orientated
Expertise
Team management
Safety awareness
Effective communication
Guest interaction
Problem solving
Time management
Attention to detail
Operation efficiency
Development
Team work
Innovation
Exterior Maintenance
Finalists
Alexis Priebe
Andreea Moldovan
Lilé Potgieter
Lara Du Preez
BEST CHEF CREW AWARD
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Gourmet Deliveries is a family-run specialist in yacht provisioning, galley supplies, and international groceries. Whether you're cruising the Mediterranean or sailing across oceans, they deliver everything from Wagyu beef and caviar to duty-free cigars. With over 50 years’ experience and their own logistics network (especially in Europe), their 24/7 service ensures chefs and crews get what they need, when they need it.
The Crew Award for the Best Chef on board celebrates a chef who showcases excellent skills in provisioning and preparing interesting menus for guests and crew. Demonstrating flexibility, creativity and client focus is the Chef’s strength. Every Chef has signature meals, but this Chef continuously evolves, develops and innovates their cooking to suit different client preferences and dietary needs. Logistical competencies are necessary to source and purchase the ingredients, preferably with a sustainable vision.
Creativity
Stress resistant
Flexible / adaptable
Provisioning
Innovative
Culinary expertise
Finalists
JUDGING CRITERIA
Guest focus
Team collaboration
Budgeting & cost control
Attentional to detail
Organisational skills
Time management
Paulo Longhin
Vince Joseph
Antonio Laselli
David Perez
Daniel Stoma
Jason McDonald
Kendra Castello
BEST ENVIRONMENTAL & SUSTAINABILITY
CREW AWARD
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Boero YachtCoatings is a trusted supplier of highperformance coatings for yachts and superyachts, offering a full line of products including antifouling, primers, fillers, final finishes, and varnishes. Their LifeCycle service supports owners, captains, and shipyards with technical assistance, product specification, and post-sale support throughout the vessel’s lifecycle. With global dealer network and training through the Boero Academy, they ensure every finish meets demanding marine standards.
Environmental Crew Award recognises a Captain or Crew member who is future focused and trying to make a positive difference in the world. This person acts as an inspiration to colleagues, perhaps through their dedication to rid the ocean of plastic or by implementing environmentally friendly cleaning products onboard. This individual is creative, innovative and is capable of motivating the team to think more about our footprint in the world.
JUDGING CRITERIA
Innovative thinking
Leader
Motivates others Enviromental awareness
Creativity
Decision-making
Visionary/Future-focused
Passionate
Educational ability
Problem solving focused
Sustainability knowledge
Eco-friendly practises
Resource management
Attention to detail
Compliant Proactive decision
Adaptability
Finalists
Niki May Smith
Shane Coopersmith
Sean Rysenbry
Sam Stewart
Joanna Hirst
Leah Tennant
Covering Your Yacht, Securing Your Peace of Mind.
At Ropner we specialize in bespoke insurance programs for luxury yacht owners. As one of the longest established brokers in this field, we have a deep understanding of the unique risks and challenges of the boating world.
We provide a wide range of insurance solutions for yacht owners, charterers and operators seeking for a reliable and comprehensive insurance coverage.
Contact us today!
Ben Williams
Divisional
Director
T: +44 (0)7572 102 943
E: ben.williams@ropnerins.co.uk
Bridge Specialty International Limited, trading as Ropner, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England and Wales with registration number 01302663. Registered Address 7th Floor, Corn Exchange, 55 Mark Lane, London, EC3R 7NE.
BEST LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
CREW AWARD
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IGY Marina Ibiza is a premier superyacht marina accommodating vessels up to 110m, located at the foot of Ibiza’s UNESCO World Heritage Old Town. Set in the historic “La Marina” district, it offers direct access to fine dining, boutique shopping, and vibrant nightlife, just 12 nautical miles from Formentera’s renowned turquoise waters.
The Lifetime Achievement Crew Award is to honour a single individual for his or her lifetime contribution to enriching the Superyacht Industry. The winner deserves this award as it recognizes their lifetime achievements and contributions that fundamentally advanced to the superyacht industry and whose achievements had been acknowledged by Captains & Crew.
JUDGING CRITERIA
Dedication
Creativity
Leadership Commitment
Going the extra mile
Meaningful contribution to the Superyacht Industry
Finalists
Excellence
Innovation
Resilience
Passionate
Influence
Isobel Odendaal
Emma Baggett
Begüm Doğulu
Carmen Preda Graeme Lord
Dean Dutoit
BEST MENTOR
CREW AWARD
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Ryacht Assistance is a registered yacht and ship agency operating in the Naples & Capri region of Italy. They combine passion, efficiency, and friendliness to support vessel operations with professionalism. Their services include handling documentation, logistics, agency duties, and local support tailored for yachts and ships operating in their area.
The Best Mentor Crew Award recognizes an experienced crew member who has significantly contributed to the professional and personal growth of fellow crew members. This individual actively supports and guides colleagues, offering knowledge, encouragement, and leadership that fosters a positive and productive working environment onboard. They go beyond their role to nurture talent, build confidence, and ensure the overall well-being of their team. Through coaching, constructive feedback, and by leading by example, this crew member plays an integral role in the development of future industry professionals.
JUDGING CRITERIA
Leadership & coaching
Supportive & encouraging
Effective communication
Knowledge sharing & training
Emotional intelligence
Conflict resolution
Team development
Professionalism
Adaptability
Problem solving
Finalists
Lilé Potgieter
Karine Rayson
Tracey Boston
Kelly Gordon
Gemma Hulbert
Mayte Bruguera
Alice Baker
Don McKee
Dean Pilatti
WHAT IS ACREW?
5,000+ Vessels and 55,000+ Captains, Crew and Charter Brokers perceive ACREW as the community of superyacht professionals with a focus on acknowledging and empowering them through professional & personal development, networking and social activities.
With 26,500+ social media followers and 50,000+ email newsletter subscribers ACREW is the largest community of active Crew in the maritime industry.
FIND OUT MORE
CAPTAIN & CHARTER BROKER
MONACO YACHT SHOW
BEST SOCIAL INFLUENCER
CREW AWARD
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Yacht Broker Masterclass offers specialized training and mentorship programs tailored for yacht brokers. Their curriculum covers sales strategies, negotiation, client relationships, and industry insights to help brokers boost their performance and credibility in the luxury yachting market.
This Crew Award is for a social influencer who has excelled in engaging and inspiring audiences through their dynamic and authentic content. The award will be given to an individual who demonstrates creativity, clear communication, and a strong online presence. This social influencer effectively showcases the yacht lifestyle, promotes the brand, and highlights the unique experiences of life onboard. Their ability to connect with and motivate others, combined with their professionalism and visionary approach, makes them an invaluable ambassador for the yacht and its crew, earning the admiration and respect of both colleagues and followers.
JUDGING CRITERIA
Finalists
Magdalena Nenadovic
Alexis Priebe
Liam Devlin
Kelly Gordon
João Franco
Lizzette Meyer
BEST JUNIOR
CREW AWARD
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The Best Junior Crew Award celebrates an outstanding newcomer to the industry who has quickly demonstrated exceptional potential, enthusiasm, and dedication to their role. This individual has shown a strong willingness to learn, a positive attitude, and the ability to adapt to the demanding nature of life onboard. Despite their limited experience, they consistently display professionalism, reliability, and a proactive approach to their duties, earning the respect of their peers and superiors.
iShine Coatings specializes in advanced marine paint solutions for yachts and superyachts. Delivering top-tier products such as primers, antifoulings, and finishing coats, iShine supports vessels with durable, aesthetic and protective finishes. Their global network ensures access to quality coatings and technical guidance wherever your yacht docks.
JUDGING CRITERIA
Willingness to learn
Team spirit & collaboration
Stron work ethic
Attention to detail
Adaptability & flexibility
Guest focus
Initiative & proactive approach
Positive attitude
Professionalism
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