Shirley was born and raised in Tahiti, where her love for the ocean and her island roots run deep.

Coming from a family that always had boats, she started driving them at a young age. After high school, she pursued a maritime education in Tahiti, earning her Master 500 GT license.

For many years, Shirley worked in the yachting industry overseas. However, after spending so much time away, she decided to return home and became part of the incredible Askari family.

In her free time, Shirley enjoys water sports and cherishes being surrounded by her loved ones—especially her furry companions !

Claud and Askari have been inseparable for over twenty years, first as chief engineer and now as captain. Askari has relied on Claud to maintain her entire complement of machinery, running gear and deck equipment.

A South African/French national, Claud has an easy, humorous nature and enjoys speaking to Askari guests from around the world in either of his languages, English or French. One of Claud’s unique attributes is his ability to include each guest in the excitement Askari offers each day. You will often find him passing the fishing line off to a thrilled guest to land a marlin or a tuna capturing the moment of what it is like to feel the landing of a big catch in open ocean.

Claud holds a 500 Ton commercial & MCA 200 Ton Unlimited Captain's license as well as a PADI Dive Master rating.

However, Claud’s most valuable assets cannot be captured on paper. He is one of the rare crew members who make the time to take you under his wing and include you in the incredible adventures of daily life here aboard Askari.

Lily comes from the United Kingdom and grew up in a family of sailors. Her love for the ocean led her to study marine biology at university and lead a professional life at sea. She is very passionate about what she does and her positive attitude leaves any guests with a smile.

When not onboard Askari, you will find Lily on her little sailboat exploring the islands and enjoying the sea in whichever way she can; surfing, foiling, diving, spearfishing or kitesurfing. Lily has her Yacht Master 200 Ton, PADI rescue diver qualification and has just completed her OOW .

Matt grew up in South Africa, where Marine Engineering runs in his veins. From an early age, his father mentored him, teaching him the ropes of mechanics and guiding him through the intricacies of diesel engine systems on vessels of all shapes and sizes. Born into the world of workshops and ships, Matt’s expertise and hands-on knowledge are invaluable. Eventually, he expanded his career and skillset to become a Superyacht engineer, where he continues to excel.

An adrenaline junkie at heart, Matt is always on the go. He’s passionate about skydiving, extreme hiking, and anything that gets his heart racing. His interests extend to racing, fishing, scuba diving, water sports, and a love for traveling off the beaten path in search of new spots to pitch a tent.

Friendly and approachable, Matt is always eager to involve guests in exciting activities, ensuring their best interests are at the forefront of everything he does.

After many years of working in hotel management across Europe, Emma arrived in Tahiti with a one-way ticket, ready to join a well-known resort chain. She eventually found her way to Askari after gaining valuable land-based experience in hotel management throughout the Societies, Tuamotu, and Marquesas archipelagos of French Polynesia.

Emma’s extensive background and travel experience make her an invaluable asset and a true pleasure to have onboard. A native French speaker, she frequently shares insights about the stunning island coastlines in English, often with her charming French accent.

Her genuine personality, attention to detail, and caring nature ensure that your stay is enhanced. Emma is also an excellent cook and works alongside our talented chef in the galley. Her passion for food and service is an unbeatable combination that makes her a perfect fit for the Askari team.

Artur feels incredibly fortunate to work in a field that constantly inspires him. His travels around the globe, where he’s had the opportunity to experience a vast array of local produce and dine in some of the world’s most captivating locations, have sharpened his culinary senses.

Born in Armenia, Artur was immersed in a diverse culinary environment from a young age. At 18, he began his culinary journey across Europe, which took him to several countries. In 2001, he received formal culinary training at L'Ecole Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, France. After earning his degree in 2003, he moved to Spain, bringing with him a refined palate and advanced cooking skills, embarking on a new adventure.

In 2006, Artur entered the professional yachting industry, where he fell in love with the idea of being a chef at sea. The opportunity to work with fresh, ever-changing produce and explore new flavors from across the globe excited him.

Artur joined the team in 2016 and now calls Tahiti, the paradise island of his dreams, home. He continues his work as a private chef while enjoying hobbies like diving, paddleboarding, and photography. A tri-lingual speaker, Artur is fluent in Armenian, English, and French.

Hoani hails from the beautiful island of Moorea and adds a rich Tahitian influence to Askari’s talented crew, bringing with her a deep knowledge of service.

A proud representative of her culture, Hoani was taught at a young age to weave baskets and hats from coconut fronds and create stunning bouquets with local flowers. She is also an active member of a dance group that performs nightly at a resort in Moorea. Passionate about sports, Hoani practices boxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. She loves being on the water, often seen surfing, foil boarding, wakeboarding, kite surfing, or spearfishing. Traveling and exploring new cultures is something she cherishes deeply.

Though reserved, Hoani is far from shy—her attention to detail in the interior department ensures every guest is well taken care of, and her warm, caring nature creates a welcoming atmosphere for both guests and crew. Fluent in French, Tahitian, and English, Hoani is another tri-lingual member of the crew.

Toni comes from Yorkshire, England, and brings a strong background in sports and outdoor adventure to the yachting industry. After building valuable experience within the professional mountain biking industry, she transitioned into yachting to expand her skill set and pursue her passion for the ocean and water-based activities.

With a natural enthusiasm for life at sea, Toni has a genuine love for the ocean and enjoys a wide range of water sports. Her positive energy, fun-loving attitude, and warm personality make her a wonderful addition to the Askari team, contributing to a welcoming and upbeat onboard atmosphere.

In her free time, Toni enjoys mountain biking, hiking through forests, reading, and spending time immersed in nature.