ACE OF HEARTS

Name: Kostas Vidalis
Nationality: Greek
Position: Captain
Position details: Captain
Languages: Not specified
Description: Born in Greece in 1976, at a vibrant coastal city where the sea has always played a central role in everyday life, Kostas developed a deep fascination with maritime life from an early age. Growing up close to the port, he spent much of his youth around boats and the water, experiences that naturally shaped his passion for the sea.
While pursuing a degree in Physics at the University of Patras, Kostas expanded his connection with the marine world by training as a recreational diver, earning his PADI Rescue Diver certification. At the same time, he began taking sailing lessons and spent many summers exploring the Greek islands with family and friends, gradually building the sailing experience that would later define his professional path.
Before dedicating himself fully to the sea, Kostas spent more than fifteen years working in the sales departments of multinational pharmaceutical companies. This professional background helped him develop excellent communication skills, strong organization and a natural sense of hospitality — qualities that today greatly enhance the experience he offers to his guests on board.
Eventually, following his lifelong passion for sailing, Kostas chose to turn the sea into his profession, combining his extensive knowledge of the Greek waters with a genuine love for hosting people on board.
Today, he is known for his calm and friendly personality, professionalism and attention to detail. Guests often describe him as polite, caring and always ready with a smile, ensuring that every journey is not only safe and smooth, but also truly memorable.
Join Captain Kostas onboard Ace of Hearts for an unforgettable sailing journey through the Greek islands, guided by experience, local knowledge and a genuine passion for the sea.

Name: Nikos Karkanis
Nationality: Greek
Position: Chef
Position details: Chef/Host
Languages: Not specified
Description: Chef Nikos Karkanis brings a refined Mediterranean culinary style and several years of professional kitchen and yacht experience to the onboard dining experience. Trained in Athens and shaped by a diverse background in well-established restaurants, Nikos developed a strong foundation in modern Greek and Mediterranean cuisine before transitioning into the world of yacht hospitality.
Over the years he has worked in respected restaurants across Athens and the Greek islands, including Skiathos, before dedicating his career to cooking at sea. His experience as a yacht chef has allowed him to combine restaurant-level techniques with the creativity and flexibility required in a yacht galley, where every meal is carefully adapted to guests’ preferences and the rhythm of life onboard.
Nikos’ cuisine focuses on fresh, vibrant Mediterranean flavors, with particular emphasis on seafood, seasonal produce and traditional Greek dishes presented with a modern touch. From relaxed lunches on deck to elegant sunset dinners, he enjoys creating menus that feel authentic, balanced and perfectly suited to the sailing experience.
Calm, organized and passionate about hospitality, Nikos takes pride in delivering memorable dining moments for guests throughout their journey.
Join Nikos onboard Ace of Hearts for a week of authentic Mediterranean flavors, fresh ingredients and carefully crafted meals designed to elevate your sailing experience across the Greek islands.