DARK HORSE

Elie Makhlouf

Captain

Lebanese Diesel engine studies at Kartboun School; yacht travel since 2015 across the Mediterranean and Red Sea regions. I grew up around yachts, my older brother is a captain, so I was introduced to the yachting lifestyle from a very young age. I started working in the industry at 16 and have been passionate about the sea and yacht life ever since.

Jhon B. Rotubio

Captain

Filipino I am a Bachelor of Science in Nautical Studies graduate with a strong foundation in navigation, maritime safety, and ship operations. My training and travels have strengthened my discipline, teamwork, and adaptability. I’m passionate about pursuing a professional maritime career and contributing to safe and efficient vessel operations. I have hands-on experience working on ships, where I gained practical knowledge of navigation, vessel operations, and maritime safety. My time at sea inspired me to pursue a career in yachting, as I wanted to combine my maritime expertise with the dynamic, guest-focused environment that the yachting industry offers.

Mikhael Mattar

Captain

Lebanese I joined the Lebanese Army at the age of 16, where I developed a strong sense of discipline, teamwork, and responsibility. During my time in service, I also pursued my passion for swimming and became the Lebanese Open Water Swimming Champion for the years 2017–2018 and 2018–2019. Growing up in a coastal family, I spent much of my childhood at sea. My father is a fisherman, and I often sailed with him, learning practical seamanship and respect for the ocean from an early age. My cousin works on a yacht, and I gained valuable hands-on experience assisting him on board. After several years of service, I decided to follow my passion for the maritime world and transitioned into the yachting industry. I officially left the Lebanese Army on March 21, 2024, to pursue a professional career at sea, combining my military discipline, swimming expertise, and lifelong experience on boats. I grew up at sea with my fisherman father and gained experience on yachts with my cousin. As Lebanon’s open water swimming champion (2017–2019), I developed a deep passion for the ocean and chose yachting as my career.

Nataliya Sfeir

Captain

Ukrainian I graduated from the Institute of Tourism, Economics, and Law in Kyiv with a bachelor’s degree in law. I am divorced and have three children — two sons and a daughter. I have traveled all over Europe and discovered many countries, including Italy, Greece, and Spain, which has allowed me to experience and appreciate diverse cultures and traditions. Although I did not grow up around boats, my interest in the yachting industry developed through my appreciation for travel, hospitality, and service excellence. Over time, I was drawn to the professionalism, precision, and discipline that the yachting environment requires. I enjoy working in a professional and international environment, where teamwork, organization, and dedication are key, and where I can grow both personally and professionally.