Captain - Andreas Gkiatis
Captain Andreas was born in 1992 in Athens, Greece, and has been passionate about the sea from a young age. He holds a sailing license, a speed boat license, a first aid certificate, and certifications in life-saving and firefighting techniques. Fluent in English, Andreas combines strong maritime qualifications with hands-on experience, making him a confident and capable captain. He has spent four full seasons operating as Captain on daily cruises across the Cycladic islands, including Paros, Naxos, and Koufonisia. His intimate knowledge of the Aegean Sea, hidden coves, and picturesque anchorages makes him an expert at curating memorable and personalized itineraries for his guests. Additionally, Andreas spent two years as the deckhand and trusted right hand of the Captain of a Lagoon 65. Working onboard year-round, he was an invaluable part of the crew, responsible for the day-to-day operations, guest services, and overall upkeep of the yacht. His dedication, attention to detail, and strong work ethic earned him the respect of his team and the trust of guests. Andreas is known for his calm demeanor, professionalism, and natural leadership. He is deeply committed to delivering exceptional service, ensuring the safety and comfort of everyone on board, and creating unforgettable experiences at sea.
Chef - Raphael Arapakis
Born and raised in Piraeus, with a proud family legacy spanning five generations in fishing, his love for the sea and food was almost inevitable. His passion for the culinary arts is combined with a deep love for traditional Greek gastronomy. He holds extensive experience in the culinary field, having worked across restaurants, hotels, festivals, and private events. His culinary philosophy is founded on authenticity and simplicity: fresh, high-quality ingredients, refined techniques, and flavors that pay tribute to Greek tradition. His aim is to craft dishes that awaken memories and evoke genuine emotion. Chef Raphael looks forward to welcoming guests aboard with heartfelt hospitality and unforgettable flavors that tell the story of Greece.
Deckhand/Steward - Dimitris Stratomitros
Dimitris is 20 years old and is embarking on his second year onboard S/Cat Valium 55’. With deep-rooted passion for sailing, he has participated in numerous sailing races and regattas, showcasing his exceptional maritime skills. Dimitris brings both his dedication and expertise to the team, making him a valuable asset. Beyond sailing, he has a strong passion for sports, particularly football, tennis, free diving, and spearfishing. He is fluent in both Greek and English.
