Captain Jonathan Kline: From Arctic to Aegean aboard Rosehearty

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Welcome to Yacht Charter Market, the weekly newsletter dedicated to the world of yacht charter.

In today’s newsletter:

• Top story: Captain Jonathan Kline: Arctic ice to Aegean shores aboard the extraordinary Rosehearty

• Top charter updates: New Azimut yacht Proposition joins IYC fleet, 55m Meira for charter with 10% discount, Benetti yacht Lumiere for charter with FGI, Oceanco superyacht Luna with final July availability, Couach yacht Atalanti joins Fraser charter fleet

• YachtEye: Streamline your onboard communications

• Charter photo: Whale action in Alaska with Serengeti 

TOP STORY

Captain Jonathan Kline: Arctic ice to Aegean shores aboard the extraordinary Rosehearty

A standout on both the global charter and regatta scenes, the 56-metre Perini Navi ketch Rosehearty has recently arrived in Turkey. With plans to cruise the storied Turquoise Coast in the coming weeks, we caught up with Captain Jonathan Kline to discover what sets this remarkable sailing yacht apart for her guests – and to hear more about his approach to exploring these historic waters.

Could you begin by telling us a little about your background and what led you into the yachting industry?
I was born in Iran and grew up in a number of countries around the world before eventually settling in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, during my teenage years. It was there that I first encountered yachts. Back then, they were much smaller, but I was captivated by the sight of them cruising in and out of Port Everglades. I was meant to study law after university, but I decided to take a year out to explore the maritime world – that year became a lifelong career. I started full-time yachting in the mid-1980s, just as the industry was evolving. Yachting became a recognised profession, licensing became more formalised, and yachts were getting bigger. I was fortunate to ride that wave from the very beginning.

You've captained yachts in some extraordinary, remote destinations. What draws you to those kinds of voyages?
The thrill of discovery. Before Rosehearty, I spent time in very remote locations – places like Bikini Atoll in the Marshall Islands, Madagascar, and various parts of the South Pacific. This was before we had Starlink and other reliable communication tools, so we were often cut off from the outside world. That added to the sense of adventure. I’ve always worked for owners who wanted the crew to be part of the journey of discovery, not just execute a well-worn itinerary. We do extensive research before arriving in a new place, and that includes Turkey where we’ve just arrived. I have been studying historical texts, speaking with local guides and colleagues and then we put all of that into action once we arrive.

How long have you been with Rosehearty, and what’s your connection to her?
My connection comes through the owners’ representatives, a master mariner I’ve sailed with for more than 35 years. I joined him on Rosehearty for some Pacific cruises in 2018 and later for voyages to Greenland and the Northwest Passage. I’ve recently taken on a more full-time role aboard. I’ve worked with Perini Navi for decades, across their 50 metre, 56 metre, and 60 metre yachts, so in a way, this feels like a homecoming – a familiar yacht, familiar systems, and a shipyard I’ve been closely tied to.

She is such a special yacht because she transitions effortlessly between being a luxury cruising yacht, a racing yacht and an expedition vessel. There are very few yachts that can claim that kind of range. We've taken her through ice with ice pilots aboard, raced her with a full complement of extra crew flying massive spinnakers and entertained guests in the Mediterranean with all the comforts of a motor yacht. That heritage resonates with our guests, whether they’re participating in those activities or not.

How do you tailor guest experiences depending on the environment you're in?
It’s a balance between guest expectations, what charter brokers have told them and what nature allows. Those seeking out remote or high-latitude destinations tend to understand that weather will dictate the itinerary. In the Mediterranean, plans are often more rigid – even down to restaurant bookings – but we try to maintain flexibility. With Rosehearty, we can operate comfortably in both types of cruising grounds. Communication with the principal before the trip is key to setting realistic expectations and creating a tailored, rewarding experience.

What were some of the most memorable moments during your polar expeditions?
Two come to mind immediately. One was in the Northwest Passage where we were anchored in a bay. Despite strong winds which should have been pushing the ice away, the ice kept drifting towards us – driven by an underwater current rather than the surface conditions. We had to manoeuvre quickly to avoid being trapped. The other involved polar bears. Our naturalist had to go ashore ahead of the guests, armed, to ensure there were no bears in the area. Only once he cleared it could we go exploring. It was a stark reminder of how real and wild these places are.

You're currently in Turkey. What prompted this move, and what are your impressions so far?
We’re here at the request of a repeat charter client who wanted to explore Turkey for the first time. I haven’t cruised here in about twenty years, so I’ve been reacquainting myself with the coast. It’s a fascinating mix – ancient ruins and the new Turkish Riviera. The marina we’re currently in is surrounded by Prada, Gucci, Versace. But this particular charterer is more interested in the heritage – the old 'Blue Voyage' route made famous in the 1950s. We’ll be visiting sites like Knidos, with its amphitheatre right by the sea.

How does the experience aboard a sailing yacht differ from that of a motor yacht?
There’s nothing quite like the moment we hoist the main sail and the boat heels over – no engines, just wind. Guests really feel it. We always encourage them to be on deck for that first hoist, and if conditions allow, we take them forward to the bow. It’s a completely different experience to being on the flybridge. You’re close to the water, you can hear and feel the yacht moving through it. It’s exhilarating and unforgettable.

What do guests usually remark on after their trip aboard Rosehearty?
Almost without fail, they talk about the crew – their energy, hospitality, and ability to tailor the experience. The sailing is another major highlight, particularly for those who’ve never been aboard a high-performance sailing yacht before. And, of course, the food. If we're in culturally rich areas like French Polynesia, guests often remember the immersive experiences – traditional cooking, dance, crafts. It all adds up to a deeply memorable charter.

Can you tell us more about the chef on board?
Our chef, Frake Van den Brenk, is Dutch but lives in Botswana – a rare combination! He grew up in his parents’ restaurant in the Netherlands and then went on to culinary school.  He’s incredibly efficient and calm in the galley. The kitchen is spotless the moment dessert leaves the pass. He’s also highly flexible, which is essential given how often food preference sheets are inaccurate. Whether he’s cooking for the guests or the crew, he does it all with a smile and no drama. The owner discovered him while chartering another yacht and brought him over – a real testament to his talent.

Finally, is there anything else you’d like to share about Rosehearty or the charter experience?
I think it’s important to highlight the yacht’s pedigree – she has a proven track record across luxury cruising, racing, and expedition voyaging. That breadth of experience, combined with a long-standing, cohesive crew, makes for a very special offering. We’re capable of delivering truly exceptional charters, whether in the icy waters of the Arctic or the sun-drenched anchorages of the Aegean.

Rosehearty will be available for charter from early July in the Aegean, Ionian and Adriatic Seas; make sure to reach out to the team at Edmiston and her charter broker Rana Johnson to find out more. 

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