Aszul Expeditions

A commitment for true and long distances Sailing

Sailing is Voyage, Adventure, Freedom. It is also an Art of Living, in a world of Balanced forces, Harmony and Nature. Our philosophy is that a boat is a tool, and not a goal in itself. This is why we always invite our guests to co-create our trips.

The itineraries are custom-designed to satisfy the goals of the crew.
What can we offer you? A long run over the prisitne ocean ? Do you need to reach the big wall that has never been climbed ? Swim with whales, sneak into little coves by kayak, or dinghy ? Or simply enjoy the feeling of being part of a wonderful world? We help you to imagine and create our trips together, and then realize them on board of our boat.

Speaking of the boat, our yacht is a Baltic 55. She was strongly built in Finland. She is very seaworthy and can sail quite fast. Yet she also has style and comfort: three heads; quality beds and linens; brilliant brightwork; ambient lighting; high quality cookware; and many other amenities make her delightful.

Together we will take her towards exciting destinations, from the breathtakingly beautiful and ruggedly remote coastline of East Greenland to the Atlantic islands, from Cabo Verde to the Shetlands.
At all times, we will take exceptional care of the boat, because we need her to take care of us. Sailing on a well tuned boat is always satisfying.

We do not especially like marinas and harbours, even if we do appreciate regular contacts with civilisation. A few days in a lonely swinging mooring is always an exciting experience.

We love sailing long distances, the boat likes it too. This gives us peace and harmony and the sense of being part of the natural world.

WHO ARE WE?

Stephane, Skipper & Owner

After almost thirty years in the Navy he decided to acquire a sailboat for remote expeditions support, and pursue his explorations of world and cultures under his own command.

Already owner of a Swan 38 since 1995, in October 2015 Stephane bought a freshly refitted BALTIC 55, and completed various offshore trips in Greenland and Iceland as well as in the Mediterranean sea and Atlantic/Channel/North Sea.

Stephane has traveled over 100,000nm in some of the most inhospitable and demanding waters around the globe.

Skills summary :

Ocean going and foreign port experience worldwide
100,000 nautical miles logged
Master class 3 in Engineering, Diploma in Vessel Operations and Nuclear Energy
RYA Yachtmaster Offshore 2016
French Navy commanding officer at sea
Strong leadership and team development
Highly effective communication skills
Fastidious attention to detail and safety
Passionate about sailing and diving

Sailing Experience :

Started sailing at the age of nine

Sailed professionally since 1993

Over 100,000nm logged internationally

Officer of The watch unrestricted and Commanding Officer,

French Navy

STCW 95 certified

Ship captains medical and Safety at sea trained

GMDSS certified for ocean going (UK, 2016)

RYA Yacht master Offshore (UK, 2016)

Other Skills :

Free Diver and Spear Hunter

Alpinism, Speleological explorations

Exploring Ski, Kayaking, Bow Hunting

Stephane Personal Profile :

Stephane is a highly self- motivated and energetic individual with two main passions – people and sailing. He is an effective communicator, with the ability to operate as both a leader and team member.

In terms of both career and sailing, he has never been shy of challenges or adventure.

After leaving school, Stephane joined the French Naval Academy and by the age of 26 completed the elitist Explosive Ordnance Disposal Course, and no limits Underwater Operations.

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Lóra, first mate

After a 30-year career in the electricity and water utilities sector, Lora Mattie decided to pursue her passion for the ocean and sailing. In 2023/24, she took part in the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, completing Race 9 from Zhuhai to Qingdao — one of the most technically challenging legs of the journey.

In 2025, Lora was introduced to stephane's classic sailing vessels and was immediately drawn to the opportunity to continue her sailing adventures aboard this efficient yacht.

Sailing Experience :

Lora began sailing at the age of 30 and has since gained experience in a wide variety of sailing conditions and locations, including:

The Caribbean: St. Martin, St. Barts, Anguilla, Antigua, Grenada Race Week, St. Vincent & the Grenadines
Pacific Northwest: San Juan Islands, Gulf Islands, and Desolation Sound
UK Waters: Extensive training in the Solent and a cross-Channel passage
Asia: Participated in the China leg of the Clipper Race

She has logged over 5,000 nautical miles, including both racing and cruising experience.

Certifications & Training

Clipper Training Levels I–IV
RYA Sea Survival
RYA Coastal Skipper (in progress)

Professional Skills

Over 20 years of leadership and team development experience
Highly effective communicator and team player
Strong background in industrial safety
Scientific background that supports technical understanding of boat systems and maintenance

Additional Interests

SCUBA diving
Kayaking
Hiking in the Canadian Rockies

Personal Note

Although she resides in a landlocked area, Lora is deeply connected to the ocean. She is curious, open-minded, and always ready for new experiences. With a calm and natural leadership style, she enjoys mentoring others and sharing her love for sailing. Her blend of technical skills, adventurous spirit, and dedication to safety makes her a valuable member of any crew.

Born in Canada, Lora is a experienced sailor, and has sailed into the famous Clipper Race.

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