A true seafarer at heart, Captain Alexandros has been sailing for over 30 years and has spent the last 20 years as a dedicated charter captain.
A Greek native, he holds an RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Sail & Power Certificate (up to 200GT) and a Master 500GT from the Greek Naval Academy, ensuring the highest level of expertise in yacht operations and navigation.
Passionate about delivering exceptional sailing experiences, Captain Alexandros is known for his enthusiasm and positive leadership, creating a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere onboard S/Y BLACK LION. He takes pride in curating tailor-made yacht cruises, working closely with guests to fulfill their unique preferences and desires.
During the off-season, he shares his love for sailing as an instructor, offering guests the opportunity to learn the art of sailing firsthand. Whether guiding guests to Greece’s stunning hidden coves or sharing expert sailing tips, he ensures every journey is both thrilling and memorable. Beyond yachting, Alexandros enjoys windsurfing and traveling the world, embracing new cultures and experiences.
Languages: Greek, English

Alexandros Gkouveris
Captain
Thodoris is a dedicated and hardworking deckhand with a lifelong passion for the sea. Having started sailing at the age of eight, he quickly developed into a skilled sailor and became a member of the Greek National Sailing Team from 2012 to 2016, earning numerous distinctions and competing in prestigious sailing tournaments across Greece and Europe.
His professional career began in 2015 as a deckhand for BRAMA Yachts, where he worked on day cruises, gaining hands-on experience in yacht operations and guest services. He later advanced his career by serving as a deckhand aboard M/Y OPTASIA and M/Y OPARI, refining his technical skills and deepening his knowledge of yacht maintenance and deck operations.
Despite his extensive experience on motor yachts, Thodoris’ true passion has always been sailing. His competitive spirit, teamwork, and dedication make him an invaluable member of the S/Y BLACK LION crew, ensuring smooth sailing and unforgettable experiences for guests.
Languages: Greek & English
Previous Yachts: OPTASIA, OPARI, BRAMA Yachts

Thodoris Tsoukaris
Deckhand
Erich is an enthusiastic and highly skilled steward with a strong background in hospitality, boasting seven years of experience across multiple sectors in the yachting and leisure industry. Originally from South Africa, he is fluent in both English and Afrikaans and brings a dynamic, guest-focused approach to life onboard S/Y BLACK LION.
Despite his young age, Erich’s career is impressively diverse. His land-based experience includes serving as Floor Manager at Carra-Bella Café, where he managed daily operations, trained front-of-house staff, and ensured top-tier guest satisfaction across breakfast, lunch, and dinner services. He also worked at Ocean Dreamer as a Divemaster/Assistant, further strengthening his ability to assist guests with water-based activities.
His yachting experience includes time aboard SV SEA BIRD, SV SEA STAR, and SV SEA PEARL, where he provided excellent service, ensuring guests enjoyed a seamless and luxurious experience. Erich is highly proficient in interior detailing, guest interaction, and top-tier service, making him an invaluable asset to the crew. With his positive attitude, strong communication skills, and ability to work seamlessly as part of a team, he is committed to delivering an exceptional experience for every guest onboard.
Languages: English, Afrikaans
Previous Yachts: SV SEA BIRD, SV SEA STAR, SV SEA PEARL

Erich Du Plooy
Steward
Born to Armenian heritage and raised in Athens, Chef Mihran brings a wealth of culinary expertise and passion to the galley of S/Y BLACK LION. His impressive career includes experience in brasseries, boulangeries, and Michelin-starred restaurants in Paris and Dijon, where he honed his skills alongside some of the finest chefs in Burgundy. His deep-rooted love for gastronomy, combined with his international background, allows him to craft exquisite dishes that blend traditional flavors with modern techniques.
Drawn to the sea and the thrill of travel, Mihran transitioned to the yachting industry, working as a chef on both sailing and motor yachts. His cuisine is a reflection of his passion for global flavors, always aiming to surprise and delight guests with innovative, palate-pleasing creations. Whether preparing elegant fine dining experiences or comforting homemade dishes, he ensures every meal enhances the luxury of life onboard.
Beyond his culinary talents, Mihran has been actively involved in the Armenian community in Greece, volunteering for many years. He looks forward to welcoming guests aboard S/Y BLACK LION and curating unforgettable dining experiences that perfectly complement their journey.
Languages: English, Greek, French

Mihran Yaghjian
Chef