Born and raised in Romania, Luys nurtured a profound sense of curiosity about the world, turning it into a desire to explore beyond her horizons, which led her to relocate to Italy.
After years in the hospitality industry, serving in various restaurants and bars along the beautiful coastline of Liguria, Italy, Luys found herself drawn to the sea and the dynamic challenge it presented, propelling her towards a career in the yachting industry.
Since the beginning, venturing into the world of yacht service proved to be immensely gratifying for her. She approaches each day on board DEEP BLUE with a mindset geared towards self-improvement, receptive to feedback and insights from her team and guests.
Languages: English, Italian, Romanian
Previous yachts: M/Y REBORN (76m), M/Y ESTER III (66m), M/Y SOKAR (64m), M/Y MA (45m), M/Y SOPHIE BLUE (43m), M/Y ROBBIE BOBBY (34m)

Elena Luys Maftei
Chief steward/ess
Manuel is a motivated and versatile deckhand with several years of experience in the yachting industry. Since entering the sector in 2021, he has gained valuable experience aboard both private and charter yachts, working on vessels up to 70 metres and building a strong reputation for reliability, adaptability, and professionalism.
Combining strong technical skills with a genuine passion for life at sea, Manuel approaches every task with enthusiasm and dedication. Friendly, hardworking, and always eager to learn, he brings a positive attitude and strong team spirit to every operation. His commitment to maintaining high standards and his willingness to take on new challenges make him a valued member of any crew and an important contributor to a smooth and enjoyable guest experience.
Languages: English, Italian, Spanish
Previous yachts: M/Y BARAKA (70m), M/Y SALUZI (69m), M/Y BARAKA (58m)

Manuel Simi
Deckhand
Kateryna is an experienced and dedicated 2nd Chief Stewardess with over 10 years of experience in luxury hospitality, cruise ships, and the yachting industry. Having worked on both private and charter yachts, she brings a wealth of knowledge, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional service.
Confident in all aspects of interior operations, Kateryna is known for her meticulous attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and positive approach. Adaptable and service-oriented, she takes pride in creating a refined and welcoming atmosphere on board while ensuring the highest standards are consistently maintained. A natural team player, Kateryna values strong relationships with both guests and crew, contributing to a seamless onboard experience and making every stay as comfortable and memorable as possible.
Languages: English, Russian, Ukrainian
Previous yachts: M/Y STEEL (57m)

Kateryna Lykhvar
Stewardess
Andrea is an experienced and proactive Chief Engineer with a solid background in both the yachting and commercial maritime sectors. Having served as Chief and Second Engineer aboard 55-metre private and charter yachts, he combines extensive technical expertise with strong leadership skills and a practical, hands-on approach to every aspect of vessel operations.
Recognized for his reliability and problem-solving mindset, Andrea is always ready to tackle challenges, whether managing complex engineering systems, coordinating shipyard periods, maintaining AV and IT equipment, or resolving day-to-day technical issues. Professional, approachable, and hardworking, he is known for his willingness to assist wherever needed and his commitment to keeping everything running smoothly. His dedication to safety, efficiency, and operational excellence ensures that owners and guests can relax and enjoy a seamless experience on board.
Languages: English, Italian
Previous yachts: M/Y FOREVER YOU (55m), M/Y STEEL (55m)

Andrea Autino
Chief engineer
With an impressive over four decades experience in the superyacht industry, Gino brings a wealth of yachting expertise on board DEEP BLUE.
Gino started his maritime journey in 1976 by taking his first position as deckhand and has never looked back since. Rising through the ranks, he took his fist command on board M/Y GINGER in 1985 and has been a Captain of the industry’s finest yachts since. Along this journey, he successfully attained the MCA Captain 3000 GT Class IV certification, complemented by a Commercial 5.000 GT Master Certificate.
Gino has an extraordinary cruising knowledge across the world, and he looks forward to showing his guests an unforgettable charter experience.
Languages: English, Italian
Previous yachts: M/Y PLAN B (73m), M/Y ESTER III (70m), M/Y SOKAR (64m), M/Y LADY LOLA (63m), M/Y IDOL (60m), M/Y LADY IN BLUE (52m), M/Y KERMITT (50m)

Gino Battaglia
Captain
Nicolò is a highly motivated and professional First Officer with over 10 years of experience in the maritime industry, having worked on cruise ships, tug operations, and private yachts. Throughout his career, he has developed extensive expertise in navigation, voyage planning, ship handling, safety management, and crew leadership, with experience operating in challenging waters around the world.
Holding an IMO II/2 Chief Mate Unlimited License and Yacht Master certification, Nicolò has extensive experience in bridge watchkeeping, tender operations, and the implementation of international maritime regulations. Since transitioning into the yachting sector, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to delivering exceptional standards of safety, efficiency, and service. Adaptable, proactive, and solution-oriented, he is recognized for his professionalism, positive attitude, and his ability to contribute effectively to both vessel operations and guest satisfaction.
Languages: English, Italian, Spanish
Previous yachts: M/Y DON’T TELL MOM (32m), COSTA PACIFICA (290m), COSTA FIRENZE (329m), COSTA FASCINOSA (315m), COSTA LUMINOSA (294m)

Niccolò Mamberto
First Officer
Having completed her studies at a nautical school in Italy, Valentina achieved her OOW (Office Of the Watch) Unlimited and embarked on her journey in the maritime industry. Serving on cargo vessels for some time, her desire was always to work on board superyachts, and she took her first chance to fulfil her dreams on charter M/Y DIONEA.
Travelling, hiking, gym and partaking in outdoor activities are just a few of her passions and she relishes the opportunity to engage with clients and make them feel at home when on board DEEP BLUE. Very experienced with Mediterranean cruising and locations, Valentina offers a world of insight when it comes to planning the perfect itinerary for guests.
Languages: English, Italian
Previous yachts: M/Y REGINA D’ITALIA (64m), M/Y DIONEA (50m)

Valentina Finocchiaro
Second Officer
Marco is a talented and experienced chef whose career has taken him through fine dining restaurants, luxury hospitality, and the yachting industry. Having worked in Italy, Monaco, Portugal, and Ireland, as well as aboard both sailing and motor yachts, he brings an international perspective and a wealth of culinary knowledge to every charter.
Trained in a variety of cuisines and passionate about fresh, seasonal ingredients, Marco creates balanced and flavorful dishes tailored to his guests’ preferences. His strong foundation in Mediterranean cuisine, combined with his experience in demanding galley environments, allows him to deliver consistently high standards while remaining flexible to the needs of both private and charter operations. Organized, reliable, and calm under pressure, Marco is committed to providing exceptional dining experiences and contributing to the overall enjoyment of life on board.
Languages: English, Italian, French, Portuguese
Previous yachts: M/Y BLUE GRIFFIN, M/Y RED DRAGON, M/Y SOLITAIRE OF SURAMA (31m)

Marco Marelli
Chef
Sienna Marie is an experienced Stewardess and Certified Massage Therapist from the Philippines, bringing a unique combination of luxury hospitality expertise and wellness experience to the yachting industry. Having worked aboard both private and charter yachts up to 125 metres, she is dedicated to providing impeccable service and creating a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere for every guest.
With a professional background in massage therapy and wellness, Sienna has a natural talent for anticipating guests’ needs and ensuring they feel comfortable, cared for, and completely at ease on board. Known for her warm personality, positive attitude, and exceptional attention to detail, she approaches every charter with enthusiasm and professionalism. Her commitment to delivering personalized service and memorable experiences makes her a valued member of the interior team and a welcoming presence for guests and crew alike.
Languages: English, Tagalog
Previous yachts: M/Y MARIAH (125m), M/Y PLAN B (73m), M/Y VECTOR (73m), M/Y VANDERLUST (50m), M/Y ST EVAL (35m)

Sienna Marie P. Moralde
Stewardess
Daniella is an enthusiastic and dedicated Stewardess from South Africa, bringing a strong hospitality background and experience aboard both motor and sailing yachts. At the beginning of a promising yachting career, she has developed a solid foundation in housekeeping, laundry, guest service, and interior support, always striving to maintain the highest standards on board.
Friendly, approachable, and eager to expand her knowledge, Daniella is known for her positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to go the extra mile for guests and crew alike. She thrives in a team environment and takes pride in creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that enhances the onboard experience. Passionate about the yachting industry and committed to continuous growth, Daniella approaches every opportunity with professionalism, reliability, and genuine enthusiasm for life at sea.
Languages: English
Previous yachts: M/Y LEONA (80m), M/Y LADY SUNSHINE (40m), M/Y FANAMAX (34m), Waterfront Charters

Daniella De Nysschen
Stewardess