With a unique blend of hands-on care experience and a passion for service, Michelle brings warmth, adaptability, and strong work ethic to the team onboard CHAMPAGNE & CAVIAR.
Holding dual Swiss and British nationality, she has a rich background in hospitality, client service, and private care, which has shaped her attentive and compassionate approach to guest experiences. Michelle has completed both Flying Fish Superyacht Stewardess and Deckhand courses, making her a versatile and capable team player both inside and on deck. She is skilled in silver service, housekeeping, laundry, barista work, and cocktail making, alongside RYA Powerboat Level 2 and PWC certifications.
Michelle’s career has been driven by a commitment to excellence, from hosting luxury chalet guests to supporting a 100m+ yacht program. Creative, detailoriented, and personable, Michelle is eager to continue growing in the industry while delivering seamless and elevated service at sea.
Languages: English
Michelle James
Stewardess
Bringing a dynamic blend of five-star hospitality experience and a bright, can-do attitude, Stella is an invaluable addition to the interior team onboard CHAMPAGNE & CAVIAR.
Originally from Australia, she has a strong background in luxury service, having worked at the award-winning Park Hyatt Sydney in various roles including guest services, sales and marketing, and in a one-hatted fine dining restaurant. Stella also gained hands-on yachting experience as Sole Stewardess on private vessels, mastering silver service, housekeeping, and guest care.
Warm, detail-oriented, and always smiling, she thrives in high-end environments and brings creativity, adaptability, and a genuine love for the ocean to everything she does. Stella is also certified with STCW, ENG1, and Food Safety Level 2. Her enthusiasm for learning, eye for detail, and love for people make her an excellent fit for delivering world-class service at sea.
Languages: English, Italian
Stella Salerno
Stewardess
Daniel Markov is an experienced and highly skilled Chief Engineer with a strong background in yacht engineering and marine systems management. With a degree from the Naval Academy "N.Y. Vaptsarov" and years of experience across private and charter yachts up to 90m, Daniel brings a wealth of technical expertise to M/Y CHAMPAGNE & CAVIAR. His proficiency in diesel engines, generators, hydraulics, and advanced shipboard systems ensures the vessel operates at peak efficiency.
Known for his problem-solving abilities and meticulous maintenance planning, he has successfully led shipyard periods, dry dock overhauls, and emergency repairs, minimizing downtime and maximizing performance. Dedicated to safety and innovation, Daniel plays a vital role in maintaining seamless operations onboard.
Languages: Bulgarian, English
Daniel Yordanov Markov
Chief engineer
With over three decades of global maritime experience and multiple world circumnavigations, Captain John brings unmatched expertise, leadership, and passion to M/Y CHAMPAGNE & CAVIAR.
Holding an MCA Master 3000GT license, John has commanded a wide range of vessels from high-performance motor yachts to large expedition yachts, operating in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Southeast Asia.
He has led successful charter and private programs on yachts including 55M M/Y HIGHLANDER, 45M M/Y MIRAGGIO, 44M M/Y BACA, 40M M/Y INSPIRATION, and 40M M/Y PERLE NOIRE, excelling in long-range itineraries, remote cruising, and towing operations. Known for his calm under pressure and a hands-on leadership style, John fosters a positive, motivated crew culture and prioritizes safety, service, and seamless guest experiences.
Equally skilled in yacht refits, new builds, and full operational management, he is a reliable and long-term asset for any discerning owner seeking a dedicated, seasoned captain.
Languages: English
John Shawcross
Captain
Born in Transylvania and raised on the water in Italy, Alex graduated in 'Transport and Logistics' from the Nautical Institute in Napoli. This background provides a solid foundation for succeeding as a Mate on motor yachts.
Motivated and dedicated, Alex aims to perform their job to the best of their abilities, ensuring the yacht is run successfully and efficiently. In his free time, he enjoys cooking Italian food, staying active through workouts, practicing water and winter sports (including snowboarding), and exploring various interests such as video editing.
Languages: English, Italian, Spanish
Alexandru Leostean
First Officer
Davide is a dynamic and accomplished chef with a rich background in high-end hospitality and luxury yachting. With extensive experience as a head, sole, and private chef, he has worked on yachts ranging from 27m to 44m across the Mediterranean, delivering exceptional culinary experiences tailored to each guest. Known for his creativity, precision, and mastery of diverse cuisines—including Italian, French, and Croatian—Davide crafts menus that balance innovation with elegance.
His professional journey includes positions in five-star resorts and co-ownership of a successful pizzeria, showcasing his leadership, adaptability, and passion for food. Fluent in four languages and trained in food safety, Davide brings energy, finesse, and an unwavering commitment to excellence to every dish served onboard CHAMPAGNE & CAVIAR.
Languages: Italian, English, Spanish, Portuguese
Davide Barbano
Chef
Michela started her career in hospitality working in the middle east. She started her yachting career in 2019 and has loved it ever since. Always attentive to details, she is a perfectionist.
She is always unhand with a smile to assist with any needs onboard. Michela is passionate about personal care & wellness.
Languages: English, Italian
Michela Tringale
Chief steward/ess