The crew aboard the Nauti Nickel is a unified team driven by a shared passion for the ocean, hospitality, and exceptional service. Captain Michael and Chef Jennifer, an inseparable married duo, bring years of experience and adventure to the helm. Their love affair with sailing began more than a decade ago, and they remain as vibrant on each new passage as they were on their first. With over 70 luxury term charters completed across various regions, they have mastered both sailing and motor yachts.

Michael, originally from California, fulfills dual roles on the Nauti Nickel as both Captain and Engineer. It is magical for him working alongside his wife. Jennifer, with a culinary degree focused on French influences, started her career as a chef in Portland, where she spent seven years working in gourmet restaurants, curating menus, and training staff. Over more than a decade of yacht chartering, she has thrived in the dual roles of Chef and Stewardess, continually pushing the boundaries of creativity with meals that are both fulfilling and elevated. Her love for fresh, local ingredients enhances the pairing of culinary delights with the sailing experience, and she expertly accommodates all dietary preferences to ensure every guests enjoyment.

First Mate - Gabriel Enrique Leon Garcia

Gabriel Enrique Leon Garcia brings a dynamic blend of expertise, enthusiasm, and a passion for delivering exceptional charter experiences. With a Bachelor’s degree in Business from St. John’s University, MN, Gabriel combines his academic foundation with hands-on skills honed across a diverse range of vessels and roles in the marine industry.

Gabriel began his career as a wakeboarding and fishing instructor at Camp Lincoln in Minnesota, where he developed a keen eye for creating memorable experiences on the water. Building on this foundation, he transitioned into the chartering world as a deckhand aboard Maguro Fishing Charter in Puerto Rico, gaining valuable experience in managing guest satisfaction and vessel operations on 30-ft center consoles and 28-ft power cats.

Currently serving aboard the 80-ft Sunreef Yacht Nauti Nickel, Gabriel excels in providing impeccable hospitality and service, ensuring every charter guest enjoys a seamless and luxurious experience. His professionalism extends beyond chartering, with experience in boat crossings and deliveries, including notable routes such as Humacao, PR to Bonaire and Humacao, PR to Fort Pierce, FL.

In addition to his deckhand responsibilities, Gabriel has gained valuable hands-on experience as captain on various vessels, including the Rafnar 40-ft, Boston Whaler 30-ft and 40-ft, and Pursuit 30-ft boats. His versatility and dedication to safety make him a reliable asset for any yachting operation.

When not on duty, Gabriel’s passion for the sea drives his commitment to excellence, ensuring that guests aboard his vessels receive nothing less than the highest standard of care and hospitality. With a warm demeanor and a tireless work ethic, Gabriel is dedicated to creating extraordinary moments on the water for every charter guest.


Kathryn Brown - Stewardess

Kathryn brings expertise in managing all aspects of yacht interiors, including meticulous cleaning, laundry, and provisioning to ensure the highest standards of comfort. Her refined service skills include setting elegant tables and delivering seamless meal and beverage experiences. She also excels at planning guest entertainment, coordinating activities, and creating welcoming accommodations tailored to individual preferences.

Her adaptability extends to deck duties, including line handling, anchoring, tender operations, and assisting with docking procedures. With helm training and watchkeeping experience, Kathryn is a valuable all-around crew member capable of supporting both guest-facing and operational responsibilities.

Whether independently managing a yacht's interior or contributing as part of a dynamic team, Kathryn thrives on providing impeccable hospitality and ensuring every charter guest enjoys a memorable and luxurious experience.

With experience spanning both interior and exterior yacht operations, exemplifies versatility, professionalism, and a commitment to exceptional service. Known for her proactive mindset, reliability, and positive energy, she consistently enhances the onboard experience for guests and contributes meaningfully to the success of any crew.

Together, this crew delivers a seamless and exceptional yacht charter experience on the Nauti Nickel, where every detail is handled with professionalism, enthusiasm, and a genuine love for the sea.

Kelanie Torres – Deckhand

Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Kelanie is a true Caribbean islander with a deep-rooted connection to the sea. With eight years of experience in the boating industry, she brings a versatile skill set that spans from sailing to motor yachts, complemented by a background in marine mechanics.

As a deckhand aboard Nauti Nickel, Kelanie plays a key role in both vessel operations and guest experiences. Whether leading jet-ski excursions, operating the dinghy for beach outings, or ensuring the yacht is impeccably maintained, she blends technical expertise with warm hospitality. Passionate about adventure and the ocean, she loves sharing the beauty of her home waters through activities like surfing, spearfishing, and snorkeling.

With her local knowledge and hands-on experience, Kelanie creates unforgettable, tailor-made experiences for every guest, ensuring their time in the Caribbean is nothing short of extraordinary.