MISS STEPHANIE

Captain: Mark Kurka

Nationality: American

CAPTAIN | Mark Kurka | American
Captain Mark was born in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi but spent many years growing up in Alaska. Prior to yachting, Mark was a commercial fisherman in the cold and rugged state of Alaska. Mark's grit and determination to navigate this harsh yet beautiful environment is a testament to his keen ability to navigate. Captain Mark has worked on several luxury motor yachts including an 80' Hatteras, 108' Broward, and a 115' Crescent. Mark's extensive cruising experience has taken him from the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, through the Great Lakes, to the PNW. In his free time, Mark enjoys woodworking and of course, fishing!

CHIEF STEWARDESS | Michelle Kurka | American
Michelle was born in the Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. Prior to yachting, Michelle worked in a dental office. Michelle previously worked on a 115' Crescent yacht before joining MISS STEPHANIE, 138' Richmond. When she's not yachting, Michelle enjoys reading and beach combing. Michelle has cruised the Bahamas and the eastern U.S. Her goal is to continue traveling to new places.

CHIEF OFFICER | Cole Helwig | American
Cole is originally from Williamsburg, Virginia. He has worked on a multitude of impressive vessels including a 145' Cheoy Lee, 125' Palmer Johnson, 116' Azumit, and 125' Northcoast. Cole has built two wooden boats from scratch, proving his knowledge and dedication to the industry. In his free time, Cole enjoys fishing and hunting. In the future, he plans on working toward becoming a yacht captain and eventually getting into the sales side of the business. Cole's dedication and enthusiasm for yachting is evident in the work he produces. Cole is thrilled to have you aboard MISS STEPHANIE.

CHIEF ENGINEER | James Carey | American
James Carey is the chief engineer aboard MISS STEPHANIE. His extensive background in yachting ranges from a 112' Westport to a 213' Codecasa. He is originally from Colombus, Ohio but eventually found his way into the world of yachting. Prior to working on yachts, James designed, installed, and maintained large-scale saltwater aquariums. With his understanding of the delicate nature of marine life, James is highly in tune with the sea and everything that comes with it. In his free time, James enjoys flyfishing, specifically for bonefish and tarpon.

2ND STEWARDESS | Claire Ransome| American
Claire is originally from Portsmouth, Virginia and grew up boating on the Elizabeth River. She is known for providing 5-star service to her guests. Claire previously worked on MY Freddy and MY Quantum of Solace. During her free time, Claire enjoys surfing, spelunking, live concerts and working out. Claire hopes to become a Chief Stew in the future. Claire has a natural talent for making guests feel at home on board with her warm smile and outgoing personality.

DECKHAND | Ethan Coetzer | South African
Ethan has long embraced an active lifestyle and has now fully devoted himself to the yachting industry. Originating from South Africa, he commenced his Motocross racing journey at the age of three and gradually pursued it professionally, accumulating numerous race wins over the years. Ethan's recreational pursuits encompass outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, snorkeling, and hunting. He embodies a strong work ethic and a genuine passion for what he does, combined with a fearless attitude towards taking risks. In both his personal and professional pursuits, he has exemplified dependability and a willingness to lend a hand.

DECKHAND | Conner Kurka | American
Conner was born in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. He has worked on several yachts including an 80' Hatteras and a 115' Crescent. Conner has cruised the waters of the Bahamas and Florida Keys. In his spare time, he enjoys fishing, hunting, and guiding. Prior to yachting, Conner was a first responder, working as a firefighter.

CHEF | Naomi Pawlik | American
Originally from the beautiful seaside town of Sag Harbor, NY, Chef Naomi Pawlik understands top-notch cuisine. Upon working in the yachting industry as a chef, Naomi worked as a culinary instructor at the Hayground school in the Hamptons. Her experience working aboard some of the most prestigious yachts in the charter circuit makes her well-equipped to divvy up any meal you so desire. Naomi has worked aboard BROADWATER 182' Feadship, LOON 182' Newcastle, and more. In her free time, Naomi enjoys yoga and spending time biking in the great outdoors. She speaks both English and French and dreams of writing her very own cookbook. Chef Naomi is more than ready to serve you and your guests aboard motor yacht MISS STEPHANIE.

3RD STEWARDESS | Freelance - Brought on for busy charters