ASTORIA

Captain: Spiros Tsolakidis

Captain Spiros, professionally certified Yachtmaster Offshore (200 GT) with Commercial Endorsement, brings a calm, capable, and safety-first approach to the operation of Astoria. Active in the yachting industry since 2017, he has extensive experience operating both monohull and catamaran sailing yachts in commercial and private environments, including charter operations, freelance engagements, and international voyages. Captain Spiros has a strong background in navigational planning, vessel maintenance, and regulatory compliance, ensuring efficient onboard management at all times. He is fluent in Greek and English, facilitating seamless communication with both crew and guests.


CHEF: Nikola Statev

Nikola was born in 1993 and is from Varna, Bulgaria. He graduated from the University of Economics with a specialty in Industrial Business in 2016. During his schooling, he worked as a Junior Chef in a hotel in Varna, this is where his culinary career took off. After years as a chef in 5* restaurants in both Bulgaria and Germany, he took his skills to boats and began work on River Cruises. With his love of travel and adventure, he was then led into the yachting world. In joining the crew of Astoria, he is excited to be able to create menus and tailor the dishes to his guests. He is passionate about seafood and using fresh, local catches. His fabulous risottos and pasta will delight the palate. To him, cooking is an art and a way of expressing himself. In his time off the yacht, Nikola loves being with his wife and daughter traveling together and meeting new people. He enjoys playing darts and watching football. Nikola is excited to welcome guests onboard Astoria and spoil them with incredible creations!
Languages: Bulgarian and English; German (basic)

Previous yacht: Adara

Deckhand/Stew: Robert Chamasanyan

Robert, hailing from Bulgaria and born in 1997, brings a blend of maritime expertise and sporting prowess to the crew of Astoria. Currently enrolled in the South Bulgarian Maritime Education Center, he is diligently working towards becoming a skipper of sea-going vessels up to 40 GT. Beyond his maritime aspirations, Robert's exceptional talent transcends into the realm of sports, where he holds an impressive record as a nine-time national champion and two-time international champion in boxing. He is kind, disciplined, adaptable, and eager to welcome guests on board Astoria this summer! With his dedication, skill, and team spirit, Robert adds both depth and dynamism to the team aboard.