Karolina's connection to the sea started early-as a professional windsurfing athlete and instructor, she has spent most of her life outdoors, chasing wind and waves. Her passion for an active lifestyle and love of adventure led her to the yachting world, where she's found the perfect place to combine her skills with a career at sea.
With a degree in Physical Education and nearly a decade of yachting experience behind her, Karolina has worked on both small sailing yachts and large motor vessels. She's taken part in long-distance voyages, shipyard periods, and everything in between-always with a hands-on, can-do attitude.
Karolina holds a Yachtmaster Offshore certificate and brings calm confidence to every situation on deck. With a strong focus on safety and preparation, she helps keep everything running smoothlywhether it's getting the yacht ready for your next destination or making sure all the equipment is in perfect order for your time on the water.
When she's not working, Karolina loves to stay active. She enjoys paddleboarding, scuba diving and is currently learning to wingfoil. She also has a soft spot for paragliding when time and weather allowand for wandering through art galleries whenever she's exploring a new city.
While you're on board, Karolina is always nearby and ready to help-whether it's launching toys, setting up your gear, or helping you discover a new adventure on the water.
Karolina Skomska
Mate
Meet Captain Francisco, a seasoned professional who hails from the island of Mallorca, Spain and raised with British education in an international college.
Francisco’s journey into the world of yachting began in his formative years, spent sailing the mediterranean and working at a busy shipyard. At the age of 21, he earned his Yacht Master certification, marking the commencement of his maritime career as he worked for a fleet of Sunseeker yachts in Mallorca.
His career path has led him to explore various corners of the world, including the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and the Persian Gulf. Francisco has had the privilege of working on several prestigious vessels, garnering experience and expertise along the way.
Throughout his career, Francisco diligently climbed the ranks, dedicating his free time to continuous learning and self-improvement in the maritime sector, eventually achieving the title of Master 500GT.
In his leisure hours, Francisco is often found engrossed in studies, working towards higher ranks. When not immersed in academia he enjoys wakeboarding, diving and hiking. Captain Francisco’s warm and friendly demeanour is sure to put you at ease on board Arion. Drawing upon his extensive charter experience, he places utmost importance on safety, security and ensuring guest satisfaction. You can confidently entrust your voyage to the capable hands of Captain Francisco.
Francisco John Prieto
Captain
Meet Chef Javier, a culinary maestro from Spain with over 25 years of experience
in fine dining and luxury yachting. Hailing from south of Spain, his passion for
Mediterranean cuisine was ignited at the prestigious El Olivo restaurant (Relais &
Chateaux) in 2000 after his 3 years culinary degree at Seville Culinary Institute
His illustrious career spans 5-star hotels like NH Amistad and Wyndham
Resorts, Michelin-starred restaurants such as Chez Nico in London, and
patisseries in Belgium.
Since 2014, he has served as Head Chef on elite yachts, including
M/Y GIAOLA-LU 50 mts and Jolie X 40 mts crafting bespoke
menus for guests and crew, emphasizing healthy, balanced diets.
Chef Javier specializes in using fresh, local ingredients to create unforgettable
dining experiences tailored to guests’ preferences, perfectly suited for
Mediterranean charters.
Aboard Arion, he ensures every meal is a masterpiece, elevating
your journey with exquisite flavors and impeccable presentation.
When not in the galley, he explores local markets for inspiration, enriching your
experience with authentic Mediterranean touches. Trust Chef Javier to deliver
culinary excellence on your Arion adventure.
Javier Ballesteros Castillo
Chef
A vibrant and enthusiastic individual originally from Victoria which is on Vancouver Island in beautiful British Columbia.
With a degree in Political Science, which she is passionate about, Mekensie enjoys the opportunity to learn and build skills both inside and outside the field. After university, she made the exciting choice to join yachting, combining her love for travel with the pursuit of new skills.
Mekensie loves to connect with others through deep conversations, shared laughs, attending social events and she cherishes the meaningful relationships she builds. For tranquillity, Dallas road beach near her childhood home is her personal haven for relaxation.
Mekensie also values staying active with rock climbing and hiking being her favourite activities and she enjoys the natural beauty of her surroundings. She has a special place in her heart for dogs, especially bulldogs, which she adores.
Joining yachting has enriched Mekensie's life in countless ways, allowing her to pursue her hobbies and passions in a vibrant and diverse environment. She is excited for the future and all the wonderful experiences that lie ahead in this amazing career.
Mekensie Anderson
Stewardess
Natalia was born and raised in Ukraine. She Graduated in Pedagogical University of Kiev and Maritime University of Odessa .Natalia followed her natural passion for travelling, working with different nationalities on Carnival Cruise Lines as a bartender. Later, in 2011 looking to broaden her horizons, she started her yachting career. Natalia is always looking for a new challenge in her work.
She also has a great understanding of wine and cocktails.
Throughout her career in the yachting industry, she honed her skills in
managing and overseeing all aspects of interior operations, ensuring that every
detail meets the expectations of guests which aligns perfectly with the high
standards expected on the yacht.
Natalia is a warm and friendly person, ready to assist and help - always with
a nice smile and a great attitude. She speaks her native Ukrainian, Russian,
English and can speak Spanish.
Natalia Vitkovska
Chief steward/ess
Engineer Caner, originally hailing from Turkey, embarked on his maritime
journey 18 years ago, commencing his career aboard cargo ships that traversed
the globe. His seafaring adventures led him to distant corners of the world,
offering him a wealth of experience and insight. In 2008, Caner’s path led him
to the yachting industry, a passion he wholeheartedly embraced upon settling
in Mallorca, where he now resides with his cherished wife and family.
Before becoming an integral part of Arion’s team in 2022, Caner’s career was
defined by his unwavering commitment to ensuring the impeccable maintenance
and seamless operation of a diverse array of vessels. His meticulous attention
to detail and dedication to guest satisfaction set him apart as a consummate
professional. Additionally, Caner has played a vital role in enhancing the safety
and overall experience for guests by actively participating on deck, aiding in
the safe launching of jetskis, tenders, and ensuring the utmost safety of all
onboard.
Beyond the confines of the engine room, Caner undergoes a fascinating
transformation, trading his tools for culinary implements as he indulges in
culinary experimentation in the kitchen. His multi-faceted talents and passion
for both engineering and cooking make him a remarkable addition to the Arion
crew.
Caner Dikmen
Chief engineer