The Captain's Log

Saturday, February 11, 2006

Meet The Captain - Yilmaz Sahin

The man at the helm of Piccolo is Captain Yilmaz Sahin. He has sailed Turkey’s Blue Voyage coastline for over 27 years. He is vastly familiar with the geography of the area, and has an intimate knowledge of his country and its rich traditions. He speaks excellent English and loves to chat with his English speaking guests.

Captain Yilmaz was born in Cokertme, a small fishing village along Turkey’s southwest coast, not far from Bodrum, one of our key ports of call. Growing up, he became familiar with the various fishing and trade vessels plying the waters of the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas.

When he was old enough, Captain Yilmaz took up his father’s trade as a fisherman. He did this for 17 years. Over time, he became a licensed Captain, and soon began working charter boats on a full time basis. Captain Yilmaz has been a certified charter boat Captain for over 10 years now, and has been associated with Piccolo for the past two years. He and Trisha Johnson, owner of Aegean Sails, are business partners in the Piccolo. Captain Yilmaz lives in Milas, with his wife, Aynur, and their two sons. 

One of the Captain’s primary responsibilities is the hiring and training of his crew. And here, Yilmaz is a master of his trade. He carefully seeks out young men who are not only knowledgeable about the sea, but who love the water. He seeks those who are polite and comfortable in social situations, possess excellent interpersonal skills, and can speak a second language.  Equally important, he seeks those who are driven to do their jobs well. And he demands excellence.

When fully-booked, Piccolo sails with a crew of four. Each is an important member of the staff. Captain Yilmaz manages the boat and its operations. Reporting to him is a full time chef who purchases the food supplies and beverages for the cruise, and prepares all meals. Chef Bekir has been with Yilmaz for over seven years. Rounding out the crew are two experienced deckhands who keep the gulet in ship shape; washing and cleaning the decks, preparing the cabins on a daily basis, and assisting guests with luggage or other necessities as may be requested.