Above & Beyond

CAPTAIN ARTÉMIS

The captain of ABOVE & BEYOND is Artemios Artemakis, also known as Captain Artémis, a pleasant yet assertive character, with over 30 years of sailing experience as part of his pure love for sea activities. His high responsibility and natural talent to work under pressure are two powerful endorsements he gained from his successful career in Mechanical Engineering (University degree). For over the last 15 years, Artémis has been working as a professional skipper in both sailing and motor yachts in the East Mediterranean and the Caribbean (Dominican Republic), and is an RYA/MCA Yachtmaster. In addition, he has been a divemaster since 1998 holding a PADI & NAUI certificate, with diving experience both in the Greek and the Dominican waters. Artémis is the kind of man who makes you feel assured and relaxed. He is an excellent trainer in both sailing and scuba diving, really dedicated to serving his co-sailors every single day. Languages: Greek and English (fluent)

In addition, he has been a divemaster since 1998 holding a PADI & NAUI certificate, with diving experience both in the Greek and the Dominican waters. Artémis is the kind of man who makes you feel assured and relaxed. He is an excellent trainer in both sailing and scuba diving, really dedicated to serving his co-sailors every single day.
Languages: Greek and English (fluent)

CHEF SAVVAS

Savvas was born in 1989 and he is one of Greece’s most promising chefs. He received his culinary training at the professional school OAED. He also has a degree in Fast Pace cooking and has attended seminars in Japanese and molecular cuisine. Chef Savvas began his internship at the prestigious King George Palace Hotel in 2005 and worked his way up through the ranks. In 2018, he finished fourth in the Master Chef competition in Greece.

He was the Chef for many Michelin-star restaurants, like Divani Caravel Juju Bar Restaurant, where he held the FNL Star award. He has collaborated with some of the top chefs. His love for the sea led him to start his cooperation with yachts. His goal is to bring Michelin guide from the restaurants to the yachts. Savvas enjoys creating Fusion cuisine using Greek local elements to create delectable dishes.
* Savvas won 1st place in the Platinum category at MEDYS 2022.

CHIEF STEWARDESS MENI

Meni was born and raised in Florina, Greece in 1980. Like her father, who was working as a chef on ships for many years, she learned to love the sea and traveling. Growing up, she started sailing. She travels a lot and she likes meeting new people and experiencing cultures from various countries, which has helped her to become easily adaptable to her job. For the past few years, she has worked as a hostess on sailing yachts and is excited about her new role as chief stewardess. She loves theater, films, and sports. She speaks English and Greek.

DECKHAND/STEWARDESS MARIA

Born in Bulgaria in 1998, Maria now calls Greece her home. When she’s not aboard the yacht “Above & Beyond,” she resides on the picturesque Cycladic Island of Milos. Maria’s passion for the sea extends to all things maritime. Having obtained her sailing license, she transitioned to the yachting industry two years ago after a diverse career in hotels, where she served as a receptionist, accountant, and waitress.
Maria brings a wealth of customer service experience to her role, characterized by kindness and professionalism. Always ready with a smile, she takes pleasure in assisting guests. A seasoned team player, Maria navigates yachts with ease, displaying a strong work ethic and an unwavering determination to elevate her skills. Fluent in Bulgarian, Greek, and English, she also possesses proficiency in Turkish and basic French. Maria’s commitment to excellence makes her an invaluable asset to the crew.

DECKHAND VASSILIS

Vassilis, born in Athens in 1993 and currently residing in Piraeus, has a remarkable maritime journey that began at the age of seven. Starting in the Optimist class, he achieved numerous national and international victories, showcasing his early prowess in sailing. Transitioning through the 420 class in 2006-2008 and the 470 Olympic class in 2008-2009, Vassilis has been a member of the Greek National Team since 2005 and a part of the Pre-Olympic team for the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. Currently holding the title of National Champion in the Class 470 Olympic.
In 2018, he ventured into the yachting industry as a deckhand, contributing his expertise to vessels like Sea Energy V (Fountaine Pajot Saba 50) and Lusea (motorboat – Princess 78). Vassilis seamlessly supports the crew in managing the yacht, drawing from his exceptional accomplishments and experience. His commitment extends to ensuring guests have a memorable experience, always ready to provide attentive service.
Fluent in French and English, Vassilis Papoutsoglou brings a wealth of sailing expertise and dedication to enhance the overall yachting experience