VA BENE

Name: Panayiotis (Akis) Papadopoulos

Position details: Captain

Nationality: Greek

Languages: Greek, English

Description:

Akis, born and raised in Athens, has had a deep passion for the sea from a very young age. With extensive experience as a captain since 1979, he has worked on numerous motor yachts throughout his career. For the past two years, he has been proudly serving as the captain of VA BENE. Akis is highly dedicated to his profession, demonstrating exceptional cooperation and a helpful attitude in every aspect of his work. With an intimate knowledge of both Greek and international waters, he ensures guests experience the best of Greece’s coastline. In addition to visiting well-known beaches, Akis takes pride in introducing guests to hidden gems—secluded and unspoiled spots away from the crowds. A lifelong learner, Akis is constantly expanding his knowledge, not only in his maritime field but also in other areas, such as sociology. His top priorities are the safety of his guests and providing them with an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience onboard.

Name: Panagiotis Mavroudis

Position details: Chef

Nationality: Greek

Languages: English, Greek

Chef Panagiotis, born and raised in Athens, is an experienced & passionate culinary professional with more than 11 years of experience in high-end restaurants and luxury hospitality environments across Athens and Mykonos. Skilled in both hot and cold kitchen operations, à la carte service, kitchen organization, stock management, and team coordination. Proven experience as Chef de Partie and Sous Chef in fast-paced, demanding kitchens with strong attention to detail and high service standards.
He is known for professionalism, adaptability, multitasking abilities, and maintaining calm under pressure. Seeking to bring creativity, discipline, and fine dining expertise to a luxury yacht environment, delivering exceptional culinary experiences for both guests and crew.

Name: Milica Dapcevic

Position details: Stewardess

Nationality: Serbian

Languages: English, Serbian

Milica is a highly professional Yacht Stewardess with more than 10 years of experience in the luxury hospitality industry, including private and charter yachts up to 56m, as well as private aviation. Strong background in guest relations, fine dining service, housekeeping, inventory management, event coordination, and team leadership in high-end environments. Previously served as Chief Stewardess on both private and charter yachts across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Bahamas, and New England, successfully managing interior operations and delivering exceptional 7-star guest experiences. Also experienced as a Private Jet Flight Attendant, providing premium service to VIP clients with strong attention to detail, discretion, and safety standards.
She is recognized for excellent organizational skills, adaptability, professionalism, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Passionate about luxury service, teamwork, and creating unforgettable onboard experiences for guests. Fluent in Serbian and English, with additional Italian language skills and all relevant yachting certifications including STCW, ENG1, Security Awareness, and Food Hygiene Level 2.

Name: Nestor C. Abad

Position details: Deckhand

Nationality: Philipine

Languages: Filipino, English

Nestor, was born in Philippines , was a very ambitious young man. His
dream was to travel the world, combined with his passion about ships and engineering. He is very work hard person and he has more than 10 years experience in yachting and food industry. He has an excellent relationship with the other crew members and together they combine a wonderful team, his goal is guests to have fun and an unforgettable vacation in Greece on my VA BENE. Nestor is going to help guests with everything they want and with the captain will show them the beautiful seas of Greece. In his spare time he likes travelling, diving and painting.