MATTEA

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: Mathieu Bronner
Position: First Mate
Nationality: French
Languages: English, French

Mathieu is a highly experienced maritime professional with a background spanning commercial yachting, passenger transport, offshore sailing, and emergency services. With years of experience on both sailing and power yachts, including long-distance deliveries and large sailing yachts, he brings strong leadership, operational confidence, and sound decision-making to every role on board.

Alongside his yachting career, Mathieu is a certified maritime and first-aid instructor, training both professionals and the public in safety, navigation, and emergency response. His long-standing service as a firefighter has shaped his calm approach under pressure, team management skills, and unwavering focus on safety. Passionate about the sea, discreet by nature, and deeply committed to professionalism, Mathieu combines technical expertise with a reliable and reassuring presence that supports both crew cohesion and guest confidence.

Name: ALEKS MODEV

Nationality: Bulgarian
Location: Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Date of Birth: 5 April 1999

Aleks Modev is a motivated and creative Sole Chef with professional experience in fine dining, pastry, and Mediterranean cuisine. He has worked in several well-known restaurants and pastry shops in Sofia, Bulgaria, specializing in seafood preparation, pasta and risotto, grill, desserts, show cooking, menu development, and high-pressure kitchen operations.

He holds a Professional Degree in Pastry and Bakery Production from the Sofia Vocational High School of Bread, Bakery and Confectionery. His qualifications include STCW Basic Safety Training, Food Hygiene & Safety Level 2 Certificate, ENG1 Medical Certificate, and a valid AM, B, and B1 driving licence.

Aleks is known for his strong work ethic, discipline, adaptability, and calm approach during demanding service. He is passionate about continuous learning, maintaining high culinary standards, and building a successful career in the yachting industry.

Key Skills

• Fine dining and luxury service
• Mediterranean cuisine
• Pastry and desserts
• Seafood preparation
• Pasta and risotto
• Grill station
• Show cooking
• Menu development
• High-pressure kitchen operations
• Fast learner
• Teamwork and adaptability
• Driving, diving, and jet skiing
  
  Name: Valentina Ileana Buica
  Position: Stewardess
  Nationality: Romanian
  Languages: Romanian, English, Spanish
  
  Valentina is an experienced hospitality professional with over 10 years of international experience in river cruises, hotels, cafés, and customer service. Skilled in food & beverage service, housekeeping operations, and guest relations, she has successfully held both operational and supervisory roles, including team training and staff coordination. Known for her professionalism, attention to detail, and strong work ethic, Valentina consistently delivers high service standards while creating positive guest experiences in fast-paced international environments.
  
  
  Name: Andréas Michaud
  Position: Deckhand
  Nationality: French
  Languages: French, English, Greek
  
  Andréas is a motivated maritime professional with experience in both deck and engine operations. Through commercial vessel work, yacht charters, and marine engineering internships, he has developed practical skills in navigation, vessel maintenance, passenger service, and mechanical systems. Currently pursuing the validation of his Captain 200 and 750kW certifications, Andréas brings a strong work ethic, technical aptitude, and a genuine passion for the yachting industry.