WITH DECADES OF OCEAN EXPLORATION BEHIND HIM, CAPTAIN PETER VAN DER ELST NOW CHANNELS HIS EXPERIENCE INTO MAKING EVERY JOURNEY ABOARD ASANI EXTRAORDINARY.
A yacht charter is shaped by those at the helm, and ASANI’s two captains have the passion and expertise to truly bring each destination to life. Meet Captain Peter, whose decades of experience and love for the ocean add both precision and energy to every journey. Whether uncovering hidden anchorages, orchestrating a day of exploration, or ensuring every detail flows seamlessly, Peter curates voyages filled with discovery, adventure, and effortless luxury.
Born and raised in Durban, South Africa, Peter grew up with the ocean as his constant backdrop. Initially set on an onshore engineering career, a last-minute trip to Antibes altered his course. Within days of arriving, he was working as a yacht engineer and soon sailing across the world.
In 2003, Peter earned his captain’s licence and took command of an explorer yacht, embarking on eight years of navigating some of the world’s most remote waters. He has threaded through Alaskan glaciers, dived the crystalline depths of French Polynesia and drifted through the jewel-like isles of the San Blas archipelago.
After years of exploration, Peter chose a role closer to home to be present for his growing family. But the call of the sea never faded. With his children now older, the timing was right to join ASANI and share his passion for the ocean with every guest who steps aboard.
ASANI marks an exciting new chapter for Peter. The yacht offers not only a platform for guests to discover incredible destinations but also the opportunity to elevate every aspect of their experience. “We’re striving for the highest standard in everything we do,” he explains. With a first-time yacht owner, ASANI hums with fresh energy and a spirit of boundless possibility. “There’s a real buzz around ASANI – we have the freedom to innovate and create something unique.”
For Peter, the magic of ASANI comes from the unforgettable moments her impeccable design creates. “The aft deck is very special,” he enthuses. “For a yacht of this size, I can’t imagine a better space to gather with family and friends.” He paints a picture of idyllic scenes: a cocktail in hand at the bar, children jumping into the sea and playing on the water toys, friends lounging in the sun and swimming in the pool, all set against the spectacular backdrop of that day’s anchorage.
For guests stepping aboard ASANI, the possibilities are endless. Peter particularly recommends fishing from the chase boat, sipping sundowners on the sun deck or simply embracing the serenity of the forward deck.
But above all, Peter believes it is the crew that defines the ASANI experience. “Our team is open, warm and genuinely passionate about what we do,” he shares. The enthusiasm onboard is contagious, and guests feel it from the moment they arrive.
Peter and fellow Captain Christian bring complementary skill sets to lead ASANI. While Christian, with his extensive experience on larger yachts, brings a wealth of charter and organisational expertise, Peter’s hands-on engineering background ensures meticulous attention to detail and seamless operations. “Between the two of us, we cover all bases,” Peter reflects.
With Peter’s skill, passion for exploration and devotion to hospitality, every voyage on ASANI is an unforgettable experience in the making.
