ARIVA

Spiros Bakaniaris

Chef

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.

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.

Fiona Kubin

Stewardess

Fiona is a professional yacht hostess with a unique background in marine biology, bringing both scientific insight and exceptional guest service to every voyage. With extensive experience in charter hospitality, yacht delivery, and base operations supporting a fleet of 20 yachts, she has logged over 2,000 nautical miles and understands the full spectrum of yacht operations. Her skill set spans fine dining service, creative onboard cuisine, and meticulous yacht preparation, ensuring every detail of a guest’s experience is flawless. Known for her warm, attentive approach, Fiona thrives in dynamic maritime environments, seamlessly balancing high-standard service with team collaboration. She is multilingual, speaking English, Greek, German, Czech, and French, allowing her to connect effortlessly with guests from diverse backgrounds and enhance their onboard experience. Fiona’s combination of professional hospitality expertise, operational knowledge, and passion for the sea makes her an invaluable member of the Ariva crew, dedicated to delivering memorable journeys on every charter.

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.