FAR NIENTE

CAPTAIN
Freddie Obregon| USA
Captain Freddie is a highly experienced and approachable maritime professional with over 20 years in the Merchant Marine and 7+ years as a successful yacht captain. Holding an Unlimited Master License and a full suite of advanced certifications, he brings strong leadership, a calm presence, and deep operational knowledge to every program — from private cruising to busy charter itineraries.
Fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, Freddie has navigated extensively throughout the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and the Americas. He is known for his steady hand, excellent safety record, and genuine care for both guests and crew. With a warm and welcoming leadership style, he creates an atmosphere where everyone feels safe, relaxed, and well looked after. When not at the helm, Freddie enjoys sailing, swimming, playing tennis, and discovering new cuisines — he’s a true foodie with a passion for cultural exchange through food. More than anything, he loves being a yacht captain and takes pride in crafting unforgettable experiences for his guests aboard Far Niente.

CHEF
Michael Whitcombe
Chef Michael has a strong background in both yachting and the culinary arts. Originally a Captain with a 200-ton YM license, he transitioned into the galley after attending culinary school in South Africa, where he discovered his true passion for cooking. Michael is known for his versatility in the galley and can confidently prepare a wide range of cuisines to suit any guest’s preferences. Whether it’s classic French, fresh Mediterranean, Southeast Asian, or modern plant-based dishes, he focuses on clean flavours, quality ingredients, and elegant presentation. He’s always up for a creative challenge and loves designing custom menus that reflect what guests are craving. Baking is where he truly shines - think fresh breads, pastries, and desserts made from scratch. Before working full-time in yachting, Michael owned a dive centre and is also a qualified divemaster. When he’s not in the galley, you’ll find him fishing, sailing, playing guitar, or exploring new cooking techniques. His favourite cruising grounds are in Europe, where the rich culture and incredible food scene keep him constantly inspired.

FIRST MATE
Lindsey Semino | USA
Previous Yachts: Aqua Cat, Vista Blue. Born and raised in Arizona, Lindsey’s journey to the yachting industry is as inspiring as it is unique. Her passion for horses initially led her to become a Trainer Jockey, but her love for the water set her on a different path. Lindsey started working at a boat and jet ski rental company, which she successfully managed for nine years. During this time, she honed her skills, built her knowledge of the maritime industry, and laid the foundation for a lifelong career on the water. She began her yachting career as a Deck Stewardess and quickly made her mark with her hard work, motivation, and dedication. After joining M/Y Far Niente, Lindsey’s talents and leadership qualities were evident, and she stepped up to the Chief Officer position within just two years. She has now been an integral part of the M/Y Far Niente team for six years, showcasing her loyalty and exceptional expertise. Lindsey has extensive hands-on experience as a Dockhand at a marina and on a dive boat, during which time she earned her Captain’s license. As Chief Officer, she combines her extensive maritime experience, tender driving skills, and passion for travel and videography to ensure every guest has an unforgettable experience. Her dedication and love for the ocean inspire everyone she meets, making her a true leader in the yachting world.
Hobbies: Diving, Kite Surfing, Wakeboarding, Horseback Riding, Traveling and Videography.

CHIEF STEWARDESS
Marlena Drandic | Croatia
Previous Yachts: M/Y G3, M/Y Lionshare, M/Y Nero, M/Y DynaR, M/Y Rahil. Born and raised in Croatia, Marlena has a diverse background in healthcare, creativity, and hospitality. After completing nursing high school, she earned a degree in Physiotherapy and worked at a rehabilitation and thalassotherapy clinic. Along the way, she became a certified lecturer in physiotherapy and expressed her artistic side as a guitarist and singer in a local band. Seeking more adventure, Marlena transitioned into yachting, where she has excelled for the past 12 years. Her role as Chief Stewardess allows her to combine her love of travel, fine dining, and luxury hospitality with her creative talents. She is known for crafting stunning tablescapes and organizing memorable themed nights. Fluent in English and Italian, with conversational Spanish, Marlena also brings exceptional bartending and barista expertise to her role. A certified mixologist, her cocktail creations and attention to detail perfectly complement her outgoing personality and strong organizational skills.
Hobbies: Yoga, music, reading, hiking, dancing and creating content for her YouTube channel.

CHIEF ENGINEER
Allen Dudley | USA
Born in Guildford, England, but raised in Port Clinton, Ohio, Allen was well traveled from a young age. Growing up on the Great Lakes, he naturally had a love for water sports, everything from jet skiing, kite surfing, wakeboarding, kneeboarding, and free diving. Allen took his passion in mechanics and the ocean to Orlando where he studied at the Marine Mechanics Institute. After graduating, Allen was offered a diesel apprenticeship in the US Virgin Islands at All Points Marine where he was subsequently offered his first yachting position onboard a 120' Broward. He spent his year as the First Mate, Chief Engineer, and the Captain's right hand man. Allen is welcoming, knowledgeable and has a desire to please. When not traveling the world by sea, he enjoys spending quality time with his family and friends.

SECOND STEWARDESS
Gorana Sabic | Croatia
Previous Yachts: G3 (44m), Lion Share (39m), Nero (90m). Gorana comes from Croatia and has built a successful career in yachting over the past 10 years. After completing her education as a Dental Technician, she earned her Bachelor's degree in Business Economics. However, her adventurous spirit and love for travel led her to the yachting industry, where she discovered a true passion for the dynamic lifestyle it offers. From exploring stunning destinations to meeting people from diverse cultures, Gorana thrives in the ever-changing environment of yachting. For the past 3 years, she has been a valued member of the Far Niente crew, bringing her bubbly and friendly personality to the team. Her enthusiasm, professionalism, and love for the yachting life make her an exceptional addition to any crew. Her adventurous nature and positive outlook on life make her a joy to be around, both at work and in her downtime.
Hobbies: Hiking scenic trails, working out to stay fit, diving into a great book and traveling around the world.

DECK/STEW
MiKayla Lee | South Africa
MiKayla was born and raised in Missouri, where her roots run deep in the countryside. Growing up on a ranch surrounded by animals, she embraced the country lifestyle. With a large family and multiple siblings, life was always full of energy and adventure. For 12 years, MiKayla dedicated herself to competitive cheerleading, a passion that taught her discipline, teamwork, and high energy—qualities that still serve her today. MiKayla earned her Associate's degree while simultaneously working in the food industry for 10 years but felt unsure of her path until she discovered the yachting world in 2021. Since moving to Florida four years ago, she dove straight into yachting and has fallen in love with life on the water and found her true calling. Now fully immersed in the yachting industry, MiKayla combines her warm, fun-loving personality with a strong focus on guest safety and creating unforgettable experiences on the water. Hobbies: Fishing, Swimming, Horse-Back Riding, helping people.