Name: Julien Braconnier
Position: Captain
Nationality: French
Languages: English, French
Julien’s lifelong bond with the sea began in the sheltered coves and bustling harbors of his home, where he first set sail as a young fisherman. The call of the ocean shaped his early years, instilling resilience, adaptability, and a deep respect for the beauty of the ocean.
Though his journey briefly diverged into the world of technology and renewable energy — reflecting his curiosity and drive to innovate — Julien’s heart remained tethered to the sea. Returning to maritime life, he honed his skills through advanced training in safety, anti-piracy, and modern navigation, earning him a Master 500GT and a prestigious role at the Yacht Club de Monaco. There, Julien captained legendary yachts, from classic vessels like Tuiga to cutting-edge motor yachts, before taking on global charters and transoceanic voyages over the course of a distinguished career.
Passionate and endlessly curious, Julien brings a wealth of expertise and an unwavering commitment to the vision of Mattea, uniting sustainability, technology, and elegance. Whether guiding guests through pristine snorkeling spots or navigating uncharted horizons, he ensures every voyage is not only unforgettable but also a step toward a more harmonious relationship with our oceans.
Name: Theodore Armatas
Position: Chef
Nationality: Greek
Languages: English, Greek
Michelin-trained Executive Chef and hospitality entrepreneur with experience across two-Michelin-starred restaurants, private dining, and premium villa hospitality in Greece. Formerly part of the culinary teams at DELTA and Spondi in Athens, Theodore combines refined fine-dining technique with a strong understanding of guest experience, menu development, and personalized service.
As the Founder and Executive Chef of Villa Chefs and the Founder of PHAO, Stories Around the Table, he creates bespoke culinary experiences centered on quality, seasonality, discretion, and creativity. His background in business, marketing, and sales further allows him to bring a distinctive entrepreneurial and guest-focused approach to private hospitality.
Name: Evgenia Topalova
Position: Stewardess
Nationality: Bulgarian/Moldovan
Languages: English, Italian, Turkish, Bulgarian, Romanian, Russian, Ukrainian
Motivated and detail-oriented stewardess with experience aboard private and charter yachts up to 90m. Strong background in housekeeping, laundry, pantry, guest service, provisioning, table setting, and galley support, with experience working within professional interior teams.
Two higher education degrees, including a Doctor of Dental Medicine, providing a strong understanding of hygiene, personal care, and attention to detail. Additional experience in cosmetology, nutrition, restaurant administration, waitressing, housekeeping, and barista service brings a well-rounded hospitality background.
Proactive, adaptable, reliable, and team-oriented, with excellent communication skills and the ability to work efficiently in a dynamic environment. A genuine passion for yachting, guest service, and continuous professional development.
Name: Andréas Michaud
Position: Deckhand
Nationality: French
Languages: English, Greek, French
He is a versatile professional sailor with experience across deck and engine operations. He has worked on passenger vessels and day-charter yachts in Miami–Bahamas, with hands-on experience in navigation, guest care, safety procedures, vessel maintenance, and offshore operations. Passionate about yachting and water sports, Andréas brings a proactive, adaptable, and eager-to-learn approach to every crew.
