Piola

Kostas Zogkas

Captain
Greek
Born in 1984, Captain Kostas brings over 20 years of experience in the yachting industry, with a solid background on both private and charter vessels. Over the course of his career, he has served as chief officer on several renowned yachts, including M/Y O’NEIRO, M/Y O’PATI, M/Y NITA, and M/Y BLISS, gaining extensive operational experience throughout the Mediterranean. In the past 8 years, Captain Kostas has enjoyed a long-standing relationship with the owner of PIOLA, having served as Captain of the owner’s previous yacht, a 25m Ferretti, which achieved excellent charter records under his command. Today, he brings his valuable experience, excellent navigation and management skills and deep knowledge of the Greek cruising grounds to ensure smooth operations and exceptional charter experiences for guests. In his free time, Captain Kostas enjoys fishing, scuba diving, free diving, and a variety of water sports. He speaks English.

Nikos Kalemanis

Chef
Greek
Chef Nikos brings over a decade of experience in high-end restaurants and luxury hospitality, with a strong passion for refined flavors and creative cuisine. A graduate of Le Monde Culinary School in Athens, he has developed a versatile culinary style inspired by Mediterranean and international gastronomy, with a focus on seasonal ingredients, precision, and elegant presentation. Most recently, Nikos completed a successful charter season as Chef on board M/Y DINAIA, where he delivered tailored dining experiences for guests while maintaining the highest standards of quality, hygiene, and service expected in the yachting industry. Prior to entering yachting, he built a solid foundation in renowned restaurants across Greece including Santorini and Athens, progressing through roles from Commis Chef to Sous Chef and Head Chef. Known for his creativity, strong organization, and ability to craft memorable menus, Nikos combines technical expertise with a genuine passion for hospitality, ensuring every meal on board is both refined and memorable.

Sotiris Efthimiou

Engineer
Greek
Sotiris, born in 1984, brings extensive maritime experience and a calm, hands-on approach to his role as Engineer on board M/Y PIOLA. He began his career in the merchant fleet before moving into yachting in 2018, serving as Chief Engineer on M/Y Martina and later on M/Y Funky Choice. With around seven years of yacht experience and extensive knowledge of marine engines, shipyard operations, and mechanical systems, he is highly skilled at keeping vessels operating efficiently behind the scenes. Sotiris is known for his reliability, technical precision, and commitment to ensuring smooth operations on board. He speaks English and holds speedboat license.

Yiota Papavasilopoulou

Chief Stewardess
Greek
Yiota was born in 1995 and entered the yachting industry in 2018 when she joined the owner’s previous charter yacht. Over the past eight successful seasons, she has worked closely with Captain Kostas Zogkas, building a strong professional relationship and gaining valuable experience. When the owner launched his new yacht, PIOLA, it was a natural choice for Yiota to continue the journey as part of the crew. She studied finance, but her professional path quickly led her toward hospitality. Having previously worked with children and in customer service, Yiota discovered how much she enjoys taking care of people and creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. She is trained in Silver Service, Bartending, and Barista services, and approaches her work with genuine enthusiasm and attention to detail, making her an essential part of the PIOLA family. Yiota speaks English and basic French. Outside of work, she enjoys staying active, playing volleyball, as well as reading literature and travelling whenever she has the opportunity.

Sophia Kalambouka

Deck / Stew
Greek - Canadian
Sophia serves on M/Y PIOLA as Stew/Deck, bringing a strong maritime background and valuable experience from passenger vessels and from the yachting sector. She brings a developed solid understanding of guest service, deck operations, tender handling, while maintaining high standards throughout the vessel. Her positive attitude, strong work ethic, and team-oriented approach make her a versatile crew member who is always ready to assist wherever needed. Fluent in English as she's holding Canadian nationality, Sophia enjoys travelling, horse riding, salsa dancing, and ice skating, and looks forward to creating memorable experiences for guests while contributing to a welcoming atmosphere on board.

Andrew Deligiannis

Bosun
Greek
Andrew is an experienced deck professional with extensive time on board charter yachts, bringing strong technical skills, leadership, and a hands-on approach to all aspects of deck operations. Over the years he has served as Bosun on several yachts, including M/Y MAMMA MIA (40m), M/Y HATATY (34m), M/Y ALAYA (33m), M/Y WHITE KNIGHT (40m), and M/Y REGINA K (32m), gaining solid experience in yacht maintenance, tender driving, mooring operations, and guest support. Andrew is highly capable with watersports and tender operations and holds a Speedboat Operator Licence, allowing him to confidently handle tenders and assist guests with activities on the water. With strong knowledge of deck maintenance, anchoring procedures, and safety standards, combined with his leadership experience as a Bosun, Andrew is a reliable and proactive crew member who contributes to smooth yacht operations and an excellent guest experience on board.