BEST OFF

Crew Profile

George Georgakopoulos
Captain
Greek
George, was born in 1984 in Greece. He joined the yachting industry in 2009, and quickly earned higher ranks, starting from Deckhand and Bosun to Chief Officer positions on yachts from 29 to 72m, cruising on both sides of the Atlantic. He has successfully completed several STCW training courses, including First Aid, Fire Fighting, Fast Rescue Boats, SSO Ship Security Officer, and he has a certificate for masters of Cargo and Passenger Ships. He has substantial experience cruising in the South of France and Italy in the past 10 years as Chief Officer of the same boat and is very comfortable interacting with guests, having worked on charter yachts throughout his career. George is meticulous and proficient in budget management and voyage planning in addition to navigation. He is a committed team leader of multi-skilled teams with the capacity to function in difficult environments and uphold the highest standards of health, safety, and the environment. In addition to cycling, swimming, and being a PADI certified diver, George enjoys travelling and discovering other cultures.
Languages: English, Greek
Previous Yachts: m/y Domino, m/y RM Elegant, m/y Omega

Gaetan Pelletti
Chef
Belgian
Gaetan is a highly skilled Belgian chef fluent in English and native in French. He excels in Mediterranean cuisine and French gastronomy, with robust management and organizational abilities. Known for his adaptability and creativity in menu design, Gaetan has managed large teams and catered to high-net-worth individuals. Gaetan's experience spans prestigious roles in 50m yachts and chalets in Courchevel, consistently receiving positive feedback. He has also owned multiple restaurants and organized high-profile events and has earned multiple awards including 3rd place in the Prosper MONTAGNÉ competition for the best cook in Belgium. His passion for music, travel, and culinary exploration drives his innovative approach in the kitchen.
Previous Yachts: m/y Menorca, m/y Genesis, m/y Steel

Nataliia Mospan
Chief Stewardess
Ukranian
Nataliia, born in 1989, is a highly energetic and confident individual. Having graduated from Odessa’s State Ecological University with a Master’s degree in Meteorology, she quickly pursued her seafaring passion by receiving a Stewardess Training Certificate. After completing the Security Awareness training course and acquiring her Seamans’ Book, she was employed both on private and chartered vessels where she has been working for the past 7 years. Natalia shows great attention to detail and loves working at sea. She is mindful of ways to contribute to the guest experience and her positive personality and great sense of humor is a breath of fresh air. Be it recommending a drink to guests, flower decorating, her excellent silver service, or barista skills, she is always attentive to guests and tries her most in creating the ideal environment for a memorable voyage. As an active individual, Natalia has a plethora of interests and hobbies that include photography, dancing, fashion, Pilates, painting and cooking. She speaks fluent English.
Previous Yachts: O'NATALINA, W, LADY MURA

George Souras
Engineer
Greek
Born in 1994, Giorgos is a distinguished alumnus of the Hellenic Merchant Marine Academy, holding an array of essential licenses and certificates, including Advance Firefighting, Medical First Aid, and Security Awareness. Commencing his maritime journey in 2005 aboard commercial ships, he displays an unwavering enthusiasm for embracing fresh challenges and expanding his expertise. Giorgos meticulously attends to every detail, has all the technical knowledge to ensure the seamless and secure operation of BEST OFF. His dedication guarantees guests a seamless holiday experience. On board BEST OFF since 2023.

Ronaldo Palon
Deckhand
Philippino
With a background in Marine Transportation and extensive hands-on experience, Ronaldo excels in watchkeeping, docking operations, and detailed maintenance tasks such as polishing and teak maintenance. Rolando's dedication to teamwork, his proactive approach, and his skill in engine room assistance and bilge cleaning make him a valuable crew member. He is fluent in English and Filipino and brings a positive and hardworking attitude to the team, aiming to continually improve and contribute effectively to the yacht's operations.
Previous Positions: M/Y VIERA, M/Y VAGABONDO, M/Y LADY DY

Venesa Grobler
Stewardess
South African
Venesa thrives in fast-paced environments and excels in handling diverse tasks independently. Her maritime experience includes a solo Stew/Cook role on M/Y NOA (18m), where she managed interior duties and meal preparation. Her land-based experience includes housekeeping, service, and administrative duties at a guesthouse, and a role as a Personal Assistant and Operations Coordinator, where she coordinated logistics, managed inventory, and handled client and supplier communications. Outgoing, sociable, and disciplined, she aims to cultivate genuine relationships and deliver exceptional service.