"El Jefe"… Jens is the Operations Manager and part owner of Vela Cabarete for 4 years. Jens was born in Germany but has called Cabarete home for almost 12 years. A powerful wavesailor and freestyler whose enthusiasm for windsurfing equals his love for strong Dominican coffee. His daily clinics ensure every person leaves a more knowledgeable windsurfer. Jens can answer almost any question you have about sailing, surfing or kiteboarding conditions in and around Cabarete.

Udo is the Finance and Administration Manager and has been on the island longer then anyone else on the team. He has practically become a local after all these years. He arrived on the island 16 years ago and decided to open a small windsurf center. For the last ten years he has been part owner of Vela Cabarete. Udo is the man behind the scenes, although rarely spotted, he’s the one that makes it all happen!

Francois This smiling French windsurf instructor joined us at the end of October 2003. Coming from St. Martin he was already used to the Caribbean lifestyle. Francois has a lot of experience in teaching windsurfing lessons and never looses his great sense of humor. With perfect English he is the man to teach the ultimate lesson to our clients and is great with kids who are just starting out. He explains everything in a step-by-step approach so that your improvements are guaranteed after enjoying some lessons with him! Francois is the man to ask for if you want to learn how to loop!

Sara originates from Sweden and initially wanted to stay for only a couple of months – but now has more than a year under her belt. After having worked at the Vela Bar for about 9 months Sara is now in charge of the office and handles all the accounting. With her enthusiasm around the centre, everyone can always count her positive opinion. Now a keen windsurfer, kiter and surfer, there is nothing that this girl can’t do on the water!

Michelle Many people already know Michelle. She has been with us for more than 3 years already. Michelle is from Canada and works at the bar when she’s not healing those aching muscles. She is our house massage therapist and specializes in Swedish massage. Michelle always spreads around her great humor and brings sunshine to the center. If anybody is up to it, she also shakes it like no other on the dance floor!

Da Vela Bar
Our on site bar and restaurant caters for worn out and hungry sailors. Johanny and Olga have cold beer and famous Dominican Rum on hand while the masters in the kitchen Chiqui and Oscabeli cook up a local specialty of Chicken and Rice or Fresh Fish. Their happy faces and contagious laughter will add to the memories of your holiday in Cabarete. You’ll find new friends in all Da Vela Crew.

Fernando and Malanga
The energetic local boys, love working at the beach. If you need help tuning your gear, carrying boards or sails up and down the beach or a volleyball partner, look no further! Both the boys are very promising up and coming windsurfers themselves and practice whenever they can. They always have an eagle eye on the water, keeping tabs on guests to ensure their safety.

Jessica A long way from home, this Aussie has settled in comfortably with the Caribbean lifestyle. After traveling throughout Central and South America, she chose Cabarete to call home for now. If you want to make a reservation, she’s the one to contact, but apart from working in the office, Jessica is the first smiling Vela face you may see upon your arrival at the airport. She’ll fill you in on all the places to eat, drink, hangout and must see’s around town!