CAPTAIN GAETANO
Captain Gaetano Mandarano is a highly experienced and passionate seafarer whose lifelong dedication to the sea has shaped a dynamic and steadily advancing career. From his early days as a naturalistic diving guide and scuba instructor managing a 15-meter dive boat, he has consistently sought growth and responsibility, ultimately rising through the ranks to become a trusted charter captain. Until last season, he was the Master of the Bali 5.4 catamaran Therasia, overseeing charters across the Mediterranean and managing the winter maintenance of a fleet of catamarans. In 2025, he took command of the sailing yacht Didymos, continuing his commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences and high standards of vessel care. Known for his hands-on technical skills, he takes pride in maintaining mechanical and electrical systems, particularly in the engine room. His leadership style focuses on fostering a calm, cooperative environment onboard—something he considers essential for a successful season. With a Master 200GT and OOW 500GT certification, extensive charter experience, and a proactive approach to vessel upkeep and guest care, Captain Mandarano brings both reliability and enthusiasm to every voyage.
CHEF CHIARA
Chiara La Loggia, a native of Palermo, has been working with BR1 management since 2015, first serving as a stewardess on Cat 60 Whale, the 90′ My Lotty, and since 2018, on Aria. She speaks English and effortlessly takes care of guests from various nationalities. With her sunny personality and constant smile, Chiara radiates enthusiasm for her work in the yachting industry. Her deep love for the sea and her exceptional skills as a bartender make her a valuable asset to any crew. Highly versatile, she efficiently manages a range of onboard responsibilities, including housekeeping, table service, and tender driving. Since 2020, Chiara has specialized as a Chef on charter yachts, refining her culinary skills and expanding her repertoire of dishes to cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. Passionate about Mediterranean cuisine, she expertly combines fresh, local ingredients to create delicious and beautifully presented meals that enhance the onboard dining experience. Whether preparing gourmet seafood dishes, traditional Italian recipes, or innovative international cuisine, she ensures that every meal is both flavorful and memorable. Her attention to detail, creativity, and ability to accommodate guests’ specific requests make her a key figure in delivering an exceptional charter experience. This is her second season as the chef aboard Didymos, where she continues to delight guests with her culinary expertise and dedication to high-quality service.
STEWARDESS NEUS
Neus Martinez Abas is a dedicated and multilingual yacht stewardess, born in 1993 and originally from Catalonia, Spain. She is passionate about delivering exceptional service in elegant and fast-paced onboard environments. With a natural flair for hospitality and an eye for detail, she ensures every guest feels welcomed and cared for throughout their time on board. Fluent in Spanish and Catalan (native), English (C1), and proficient in French and Italian, Neus excels in international settings, creating smooth communication between guests and crew. Her strengths lie in her calm, solution-oriented mindset, her ability to adapt quickly, and her commitment to upholding the highest standards in housekeeping, table service, and guest relations. Professional, personable, and always ready to go the extra mile, Neus brings warmth, efficiency, and a strong team spirit to any yacht she joins, contributing to unforgettable charter experiences. Before joining the yachting industry, Neus developed over a decade of experience in customer-facing roles across Europe. She worked as a client manager for an international car rental company in Palermo, handling time-sensitive operations and supporting guests from all over Europe. In the UK, she held the position of supervisor at The Clipper Café, where she managed teams, dealt with guest feedback, and oversaw inventory and daily closures. She also worked as a waitress and barista in several busy establishments in England and Italy, further refining her service skills and ability to perform under pressure.
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Location: Italy
