DOUBLE U

Name: Niels Basten
Nationality: Dutch
Position: Captain
Position details: Captain
Languages: Not specified
Description: Niels Basten is a captain who brings together professionalism, local knowledge, and a natural sense for hospitality. Originally from the Netherlands, he has been based in Ibiza for over a decade and knows the islands inside out. He understands not just where to go, but when to go, and how to make each moment feel effortless.

As captain of Double U since her arrival, Niels has built a strong connection with the yacht. He knows her in detail and takes pride in keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes, allowing guests to simply relax and enjoy their time on board.

What guests appreciate most is how easy it feels to be around him. Niels has a calm, confident presence and quickly understands what people are looking for. This could be a laid-back day cruising quiet bays, a long lunch at one of Ibiza’s iconic beach clubs, or a more lively atmosphere with friends. He adapts naturally to the energy of the group and maintains the right balance between attentiveness and discretion.

His experience in Ibiza goes far beyond navigation. From hidden anchorages to the best timing for reservations and routes, he helps guests experience the island in a way that feels personal and well thought out rather than rushed or crowded.

Fluent in English and comfortable with an international clientele, Niels ensures that every trip is not only safe and well organised, but also genuinely enjoyable. It is the kind of day that feels effortless from start to finish.

Name: Dax Haans
Nationality: Dutch
Position: Deckhand
Position details: Deckhand
Languages: Not specified
Description:
Dax grew up around boats, and it shows. What started as a passion from an early age has developed over three seasons on Double U into something more — a quiet confidence, a well-trained eye, and a natural feel for what it takes to run a yacht well and keep guests happy.
Despite being one of the younger members of the team, Dax brings a level of professionalism and work ethic that stands out from the moment he steps on deck. He’s proactive, highly detail-oriented, and the kind of person who has already spotted what needs doing before anyone has to ask. Guests notice it — not because he makes a show of it, but precisely because he doesn’t.
On the technical and operational side he is particularly strong, with a hands-on approach that makes him genuinely useful in any situation the day throws at him. His watersports experience adds another dimension to the guest experience, and he handles that side of things with the same calm reliability he brings to everything else on board.
Three seasons with the same crew on the same boat is not something every deckhand sticks around for — and the fact that Dax has is a statement in itself. He’s become a trusted part of the Double U team, and someone guests consistently enjoy having around.