Captain Giannis Gartzonikas

Position: Captain
Name: Giannis Gartzonikas
Nationality: Greek
Languages: Greek | English

Information
Giannis was born and raised on the shores of the Ionian sea, in the seaside town of Preveza, Greece. An avid kitesurfer and water-skier, he has an innate passion for the sea and all that it encompasses, prompting him to pursue a career skippering yachts. His likeable, gentle demeanor and easy going personality make him well-loved and respected by those who’ve had the pleasure of chartering with him. This personable exterior belies Giannis’ experience and skill, having over 8 seasons experience chartering along with his sport sailing experience in his youth – amassing approximately 200 days at sea annually. In the winter months he has being involved with international deliveries of new yachts, sea trials and inspections, accumulating an experience which has made him a guest favorite and valued asset. Having conducted charters throughout Greece, his expertise and knowledge of the Greek waters and real desire to impart guests with a dream-like experience, valuable insights and recommendations on all aspects of a cruise. Those who know him well will let you know he is not just a captain, but a bon vivant! Giannis is a graduate of the Department of Physical Education & Sport Science at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, with a specialization in sailing. He holds a master 500GT/STCW diploma from the Merchant Marine Academy of Greece, as well as an offshore Yachtmaster license from the
Royal Yachting Association. Furthermore, he holds certificates in firefighting, first aid and lifesaving. Giannis speaks fluent English and Greek, and goes out of his way to make guests feel safe and welcome on his yacht, taking on extra tasks to make the guests time aboard as enjoyable as possible. He is a committed leader with the capacity to navigate difficult environments and situations, upholding the utmost discretion and responsibility. His character, professionalism and enthusiasm for the job establish him as an exemplary captain to charter with.

Position: Hostess
Name: Esterlyn Panidoy
Nationality: Greek
Languages: Greek | English

Information
Esterlyn joined the crew of NINETEEN in 2022, and since then she has exhibited an immense professionalism from her first day, becoming a backbone of the team aboard and making sure all our guests get the experience they expect. Immediately apparent is how much Esterlyn cares about the people around her - her guests, team and family. Esterlyn has an extensive background in hospitality and customer care. In 2011, she joined the Oyster group to train as an air hostess, having previously completed her studies in preschool pedagogy at IEK DOMI. In the past decade, she has worked as a childcare professional and hostess, with her primary responsibilities including cabin safety, supply maintenance and passengers’ overall satisfaction in the air.
Esterlyn is also an accomplished cook. Following in her mother’s footsteps and growing up in household where Mediterranean and Asian cuisine existed side by side, she developed her skills at home before having the opportunity to share her skills and love of various cuisines with her guests. She has also had the opportunity to train over winters at various restaurant groups, featuring Italian and international cuisine.Having come from these fast-paced customer service and hospitality industries, Esterlyn has honed her soft skills, chief among them problem solving, time management and teamwork, leading her to develop a strong work ethic. Combined with her childcaring and cooking prowess, she makes the experience aboard relaxing and seamless. Esterlyn speaks fluent English and Greek. She is a patient and committed hostess, eager to make every effort to make the guests experience as wonderful as it can be.

Position: Deckhand
Name: Leonilo Aldovino
Nationality: Filipino
Languages: Greek | English | Filipino

Information
‘Nilo’ as he is known affectionately among the crew is a very experienced sailor with over 15 years of experience in the yachting industry, and three years of experience on charter vessels. A light, warm and welcoming personality, he faces all the challenges on the boat with enthusiasm and a positive attitude. He is a vital member of the crew, and his can do attitude and excellent cooperation with the captain and the rest of the crew is what builds the warm vibe you will find on board. Nilo speaks English fluently.

Position: Hostess
Name: TBA