Captain: Vladimir Petrov Petrov
Captain Vladimir was born in 1974 and is from Kazashko, Bulgaria. From 1986 to 1992, he studied at the Sports School Georgi Benkovski for his professional sailing license and then continued with additional courses for his Captain 40bt, 300 bt, 500bt, and 5th level Ship Navigation. Soon after, he continued his studies for a Bachelor Degree in Engineering and a Master’s of Law.
After 5 years as a criminal police officer, he followed his love for the sea and joined the yachting world. Along with working as a captain for 8 years, he has had years of experience in yacht services management. Vladimir is passionate about the sea and is a licensed SCUBA diver. He is happy to welcome guests onboard Astoria and offer an exceptional charter experience in the gorgeous Greek islands.
Languages: Bulgarian (native), English and Russian (conversational), Spanish (basic)
Chef: Hristo Nishev
Hristo, from Bulgaria, has a love of foods and creating spectacular dishes. After graduating with honors as an engineer in 2008 from the Professional School Penyo Penev, he turned his attention to cooking and becoming a chef. He began work in restaurants throughout Plovdiv and other areas of Bulgaria. From 2006- 2008, he attended Protur 95 for courses in Deputy Chef, Chef, and Head Chef; then in 2017, attended a Carving Course and Baker and Confectioner at the French Masters. Hristo loves various cultural cuisines – Greek, Spanish, Italian- and enjoys preparing themed dinners. He appreciates properly paired drinks with beautiful food that brings family and friends together. Hristo is excited to join Astoria and create an incredible charter experience for his guests. Outside of the kitchen (or galley), he enjoys cycling.
Languages: Bulgarian (native); English (fluent)
Deckhand/ Steward: SAMUIL ASENOV KOLAROV
Samuil, born in 1975, is from Varna, Bulgaria. He attended the High Professional School of Catering in Varna and graduated in 1994 with a Major of Cook, Bartender, and Waiter. After his military service was completed in 1997, he spent many years based in the United States. He began work in restaurants and then joined the yachting profession. Initially he worked on Celebrity and Oceania Cruises, and in 2007 he began his career on private yachts in the Mediterranean. Samuil works very well in all aspects of service and to offer guests the finest charter holiday. Along with sailing and the sea, Samuil loves to read and listen to music.
Languages: Bulgarian (native); English and Russian (fluent)