CREW PROFILE
Captain Spiros Kolovos
Captain Spiros is a highly experienced and trusted skipper with over 15 years in the yachting and charter industry. With more than 42,000 NM logged across the Mediterranean, he brings a calm, safety-first mentality and exceptional operational expertise to every charter. His background spans both sailing yachts and large power catamarans, giving him strong versatility and confidence in all conditions.
Having spent many years navigating the Ionian and wider Greek seas, Spiros combines deep local knowledge with an excellent understanding of guest expectations. He is known for his approachable leadership style, his discreet and professional presence onboard, and his ability to create a comfortable, relaxed environment for families, children, groups and VIP guests.
Before joining M/Y ARIVA as Captain, Spiros successfully managed and skippered several premium yachts, including the Nautitech 47 power catamaran “ZEUS.” His technical background is equally strong: he previously served as Chief Technical Fleet Manager for a large charter fleet, overseeing maintenance, inspections, repairs and safety compliance. This makes him exceptionally capable in troubleshooting, systems management and ensuring the vessel’s continuous readiness.
Spiros is also a certified sailing instructor, having trained numerous students in seamanship, navigation and onboard safety. Fluent in English and Greek, he communicates clearly and confidently with guests and crew alike.
A dedicated professional, a skilled mariner and a reliable leader, Captain Spiros offers guests a smooth, secure and enjoyable charter experience, always with attention to detail and a warm, welcoming approach.
Chef Spiridon Bakaniaris
Spiros is a highly experienced chef with over 20 years in professional gastronomy, specializing in refined Mediterranean cuisine with Greek, Italian, and Turkish influences, enhanced by modern and Asian-inspired techniques. With experience in private yachting and high-end international restaurants, he excels at creating bespoke menus tailored to charter guests’ preferences, dietary requirements, and expectations. Detail-oriented and highly organized, Spiridon maintains impeccable standards of hygiene and provisioning while managing budgets efficiently. Calm under pressure and a strong team player, he is dedicated to delivering elegant, memorable dining experiences that elevate the overall luxury charter experience.
Stewardess Dafni Vlachou
Dafni is an experienced yacht stewardess with a strong background in luxury hospitality and guest service. She has several years of experience as 2nd Stewardess on a 47m private yacht, as well as previous service as Sole Stewardess on a 20m vessel. Dafni is highly skilled in silver service dining, interior maintenance, provisioning, inventory management, table styling, and creative décor, consistently maintaining impeccable interior standards while also assisting with mooring operations and line handling. Her professional background in hotel reception, customer service, administration, and sales has strengthened her communication, organizational abilities, and service efficiency. Trained in Allergy Awareness & Food Safety Management and certified as a PADI diver, she is adaptable, calm under pressure, detail-oriented, and dedicated to delivering exceptional guest experiences. Dafni actively supports the community through UNHCR Corfu, and is fluent in both Greek and English.
Deckhand Daniel Andrasi
Daniel is an experienced and highly motivated deckhand with over 8,000 nautical miles of hands-on seamanship aboard classic sailing yachts, catamarans, and racing vessels ranging from 37’ to 52’. With a strong background in both cruising and competitive sailing — including participation in the Ionian Championship and deliveries between North Africa and Greece — he brings solid expertise in vessel handling, watchkeeping, and tender driving. Daniel is also skilled in comprehensive winter maintenance across multi-vessel fleets, with practical experience in windlass servicing, engine checks, plumbing systems, sail handling, and general repairs. Customer-oriented and calm under pressure, he is committed to maintaining safety, cleanliness, and a positive onboard atmosphere, consistently demonstrating a professional mindset, strong work ethic, and the ability to respond confidently in challenging situations.
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