Arktos

CAPTAIN: Marco PIGNATELLI

Italian

Master 200 GT, Officer of Watch 3000 GT - STCW95

11 years experienced

Languages: Italian (native), English, Spanish (fluent) & (basic) French

From the sun-soaked coast of Puglia in southern Italy, Marco’s connection to the sea began with watersports like windsurfing and kitesurfing. This passion led him to a professional career at sea, where he's built a solid track record

navigating the Mediterranean, Red Sea, and Caribbean.

Marco holds the Officer of the Watch Yachts <3000 GT and has an extensive background in yacht deliveries, having sailed over 40,000 miles across a variety of waters. His career has also taken him around the world, he’s lived in more than ten countries, embracing new cultures and building a truly global perspective.

As a captain, Marco values not just the journey, but the people he shares it with. He thrives in a team setting and takes pride in working closely with his crew to deliver a seamless, friendly, and professional guest experience.

Onboard ARKTOS, Marco brings both confidence and warmth. His deep love for sailing is matched by his enthusiasm for sharing it, whether you’re eager to learn the lines, or simply enjoy the wind with a cocktail in hand, Marco ensures every guest finds their own kind of Joy onboard.

CHEF: David BUSTOS

Spanish

Culinary School & Hospitality Service EHIB (Spain)

STCW95/2010

8 years experienced

Languages: Spanish, Catalan & English fluent

David is a professional chef with more than 8 years of experience in high-level restaurants, including Michelin-starred restaurants SA CLASTRA and DINS SANTI TAURA, 5-star hotels such as St. REGIS MARDAVALL and CASTELL de SON CLARET, and the yachting industry.

Originally from Palma de Mallorca, David has developed strong culinary skills working in demanding kitchens and luxury hospitality environments.

His experience includes positions as a chef on private and charter yachts such as Sunreef 60ft CALMA and San Lorenzo 98ft ASTRIMARE II, where he prepares customized menus for guests, always delivering high-quality service and great attention to detail.

David is specialized in Mediterranean cuisine, meat dishes, breakfasts, Mexican cuisine, and international flavors, always prioritizing the use of fresh ingredients and careful presentation. He has also gained international experience working in several restaurants in Switzerland such as BELLEVUE des ALPES and AIFACH AROSA, which has broadened his culinary perspective and his ability to adapt to different gastronomic environments.

STEWARDESS: Fahda BEKKAR

Algerian

Basic Safety Training – Eng1 Medical

Nursing Degree, IT Marratxi

Languages: English, Arabic, Spanish, Catalan

Raised in the Balearic Islands with roots in Algeria, Fahda carries the warmth and simplicity of the Sahara. Born near the desert and drawn to the sea, the ocean has always been her sanctuary, a place where she feels free and truly herself.

With a background in the medical and luxury goods sectors, her journey led her from the pearl of the jewelry world to the seashell, marking her graceful entrance into yachting.

Fahda combines her passion for hospitality with a natural sense of warmth and professionalism.

She thrives on delivering exceptional hospitality, whether through the meticulous upkeep of the vessel and of the guests cabins or service of meals; creating a relaxed atmosphere for guests, and supporting her team with care and precision.

Deeply passionate about energy, wellness, and Pilates, Fahda brings a mindful, uplifting presence to life onboard. She’s always happy to share her love for Pilates with guests, whether it’s a morning stretch on deck or a simple breathing session at sea. Her vibrant energy, multilingual skills, and love for connection make her a valued member of the ARKTOS crew

DECKHAND : George SIMOS

Greek / American

Basic STCW

RYA Powerboat level 2

5 years experienced.

Languages: Greek and English fluent

Born in Taiwan and raised in Athens, Greece, George developed a deep connection to the sea from an early age. Growing up by the Mediterranean naturally guided him toward a life on the water.

A former professional water polo player in Greece, he won four Greek national championships and made a name for himself at the European and world levels.

George has traveled extensively, particularly in Florida, where much of his family lives. The ocean has always played a central role in his life, and his years of travel have allowed him to fully immerse himself in American culture while maintaining his European roots, giving him a balanced and flexible international perspective.

George’s professional background, ranging from a certified barista to a server in high-end restaurants, has helped him develop a natural focus on guest comfort and service.

His career in yachting began in 2021 in Santorini, where he worked on Lagoon catamarans conducting daily cruises and charters in the Aegean Sea. He was mentored by experienced captains and crew members, which allowed him to develop a versatile set of skills as a deckhand/steward.

George is the ideal hybrid sailor, mastering all aspects of seamanship as well as service and the customer experience.