Ariva

• Special Diets Accommodated
• Kosher Diets Accommodated

Captain Spyros Kolovos

Captain Spyros 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, Spyros 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, Spyros 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.
Spyros 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 Spyros offers guests a smooth, secure and enjoyable charter experience, always with attention to detail and a warm, welcoming approach.

Stewardess Dafni Vlachou

Experienced yacht stewardess with strong expertise in luxury hospitality, silver service dining, interior maintenance, and guest care, with several years serving as 2nd Stewardess on a 47m private yacht and previous experience as Sole Stewardess on a 20m vessel. Skilled in provisioning, inventory management, table styling, creative decorations, and maintaining immaculate interior standards, as well as supporting mooring operations and line handling. Background includes roles in hotel reception, customer service, administration, and sales, contributing to excellent communication, organization, and service efficiency. Trained in Allergy Awareness & Food Safety Management and certified in PADI diving. Highly adaptable, calm under pressure, detail-oriented, and committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences. Dafni is holding driving licenses A and B, and active in community support through UNHCR Corfu. Efficient in Greek & English language.

Deckhand Daniel Andrasi

Experienced and highly motivated Deckhand with extensive hands-on seamanship gained over more than 8,000 nautical miles on classic sailing yachts, catamarans, and racing vessels ranging from 37’ to 52’. Strong background in both cruising and competitive sailing, including participation in the Ionian Championship and deliveries between North Africa and Greece. Daniel is skilled in vessel handling, watchkeeping, tender driving, and comprehensive winter maintenance across multi-vessel fleets, with practical expertise in windlass servicing, engine checks, plumbing systems, sail handling, and general repairs. Customer-oriented, calm under pressure, and dedicated to maintaining safety, cleanliness, and a positive onboard atmosphere. Brings a professional mindset, strong work ethic, and the ability to respond quickly and confidently in challenging situations.

Chef Spyridon Bakaniaris
Spyros 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, Spyridon 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.