SHADES OF GREY

CAPTAIN Francesco Testa & CHEF Francesco Volpato

CAPTAIN: Francesco Testa
Francesco comes from a sea salty family, countless generations of fishermen from the Bay of Naples. Growing up by the sea, a life on the water was inevitable. For over a decade, Francesco has been sailing professionally around the world, delivering yachts and captaining luxury charters across some of the most breathtaking destinations.
Beyond sailing, his passions lie in philosophy, meditation, and martial arts, disciplines that shape his approach to both the sea and life. An avid water sports enthusiast and fisherman, he continues the traditions of his ancestors but now on a global scale. Deeply connected to the ocean, he is also highly sensitive to and respectful of the marine environment, always striving to minimize his impact and protect the waters he calls home.

CHEF: Francesco Volpato
Francesco Volpato is an accomplished Italian chef with over 12 years of experience in international hospitality and catering. Throughout his career, he has held positions such as Junior Sous Chef and Senior Chef de Partie in high-end restaurants and seasonal luxury venues across Italy, the UK, Switzerland, and New Zealand. His background includes working in dynamic, high-pressure kitchens, from fine dining establishments to premium seasonal operations.

Specializing in fresh pasta and first courses, Francesco combines strong technical expertise with a refined approach to presentation, menu planning, and the use of high-quality seasonal ingredients. He is highly skilled in kitchen organization, inventory management, and maintaining excellent hygiene and safety standards. Known for his professionalism, teamwork, and calm attitude under pressure, Francesco consistently delivers elevated dining experiences tailored to guests’ preferences and expectations..


Chief Engineer/Deckhand Salvatore Di Maio:
Salvatore was born and raised in Castellammare di Stabia, a town located between Naples and Sorrento. He has spent his life by the sea. He began his nautical career at the age of 18 as a superyacht mooring assistant, and has since gained over a decade's experience working as a captain and first officer.

Passionate about navigation and travel, he brings extensive knowledge and technical expertise to Shades of Grey, ensuring smooth and safe sailing on every journey. He has been part of the crew for one year and has completed both the Caribbean and Mediterranean seasons with SHADES OF GREY.

Not only is Salvatore a very good seafarer, he is also a passionate chef. He loves surprising guests with an Italian night, when he takes over the galley and prepares recipes from his Italian grandmother.

Salvatore is fluent in both Italian and English, and his warm, friendly personality and constant smile make him a valued member of the crew.


STEWARDESS Marie L'Haridon
Originally from Brittany, I’m passionate about the sea and the art of service. Yachting inspires me because it combines elegance, high standards, and genuine human connection.

With experience on private yachts across the Mediterranean, Italy, Sardinia, and Malta, I’ve learned to be versatile, organized, and attentive. I take pride in creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere and ensuring guests feel truly cared for.

Positive, respectful, and committed, I bring harmony and reliability to the team. Working at sea is where I feel at home, and my goal is simple: to deliver impeccable service and make every moment on board Shades of Grey effortless and enjoyable.


2nd STEWARDESS On request