Captain Name: Michael Sterzel
Captain Nationality: German
Number of Crew: 2
We are back! After 2 years on land completing the renovation of our old farmhouse in Brittany, France we’re delighted to return to where it all started more than 15 years ago – on the water in the gorgeous British Virgin Islands! We met sailing in Europe and fell in love with the idea of spending our lives together on the ocean. This took us on a journey to the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, the Indian Ocean, and our newfound career.
Your crew onboard ELYSIUM is a charming German couple whose welcoming and professional attitude will make you feel at ease whether you are a novice to chartering or know boats inside out. Mike and Stef have been sailing together for the past 17 years in the Mediterranean, the North Atlantic, the Indian Ocean, and the Caribbean, where they fell in love with the BVI. With more than 300 charters since they first started they are eager to share their knowledge, experience and great stories with you.
Sailing has always been part of their individual lives and before meeting Stef Mike has worked as a sailing instructor and delivery captain on the Baltic and North Atlantic. Stef loved to sail on the university’s wooden ship up the Scandinavian coastline before she and Mike left their “normal” lives to pursue their passion for sailing and the sea.
Mike holds an RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean as well as the highest German Marine License and is a PADI dive master, and with his over 35 years of experience and countless sea miles you will be in safe hands. He’s a great host and fun to be around, always waiting to mix your favorite cocktail (or try some of his creations?), and ready to go tubing with your kids, friends or yourself!
Stef is an excellent chef who creates flavorful and colorful dishes that are based on the rich tradition of Fine European Foods. While she specializes in Mediterranean cuisine, and some Asian, she will always remember her roots in her grandma’s kitchen when it comes to baking fresh breads, cakes and pastries! Stef has attended culinary workshops around the world, i.g. at the Cordon Bleu in Paris. She holds a captain’s license as well and always enjoys a good sail when she is not cooking up a storm in the galley. Vegetarians and vegans are very welcome with Chef Stef!
When not on the water Mike and Stef are busy with their old farmhouse in Brittany, France that one day will become a B&B.
These two make a exceptional team that tailors the most unforgettable and memorable sailing vacation to their guests preferences.
Mike & Stef are fluent in German and English; Stef is also fluent in French.
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