DON CIRO Yacht Charter

Captain: Sergio Barbalić

CAPTAIN SERGIO BARBALIĆ


A seasoned and always smiling yacht Captain Sergio with over 25 years of experience across a wide range of vessels, from classic yachts and tugboats to modern motor yachts and high-performance boats. He has worked extensively on private and charter yachts between 16m and 41m, managing everything from daily operations and guest experience to engineering and full refits, with Mediterranean seasons, an Atlantic crossing, and numerous deliveries under his belt. Known for his calm, reliable approach and hands-on technical mindset, he leads with a steady, guest-focused style while keeping operations running smoothly behind the scenes. His dual Captain/Engineer background allows him to quickly solve problems and keep downtime to a minimum—ensuring charters stay seamless and enjoyable. Outside of yachting, he enjoys working with his hands through leather craftsmanship and model building, playing bass guitar, restoring classic cars, and getting out on the snow whenever possible for a bit of snow-kiting.


CHEF LORENZO STALLONE

Lorenzo is an Executive Chef with over 25 years of international experience across 5-star boutique hotels, gourmet restaurants, private villas, and luxury yachts. He has worked throughout Italy, Greece, France, and Germany, developing a strong culinary identity rooted in contemporary Mediterranean cuisine, refined technique, and a deep attention to detail.
He is highly skilled in menu creation and kitchen management, and is fully comfortable working in fast-paced, high-end environments. His style combines creativity with consistency, always focusing on quality ingredients, elegant presentation, and tailored dining experiences.
On board, Lorenzo is known for his calm presence, adaptability, and strong attention to detail, ensuring every guest experience is seamless and exceeds expectations. He works closely and effectively with crew, bringing a positive, proactive attitude and anticipating guest needs before they arise.
Outside the kitchen, he enjoys an active lifestyle, especially swimming, fitness, and exploring new places. He also values good company, music, reading, and video games, keeping a balanced and grounded approach to life on and off charter.

CHIEF STEWARDESS SANJA KNEZ

Sanja is a highly experienced Chief Stewardess with over 13 years in the yachting industry, working on luxury yachts as both Chief Stewardess and Hotel Manager Assistant. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management and Safety of Marinas and Ports, along with strong training in hospitality, Silver Service, tourism, and stewardess leadership.
She is known for her warm personality, strong organization, attention to detail, and natural leadership. Sanja is highly adaptable and focused on creating a calm, welcoming atmosphere onboard, always ensuring guests feel cared for and completely at ease. She takes pride in anticipating guest needs and personalizing every detail of the experience, from preferences to small thoughtful touches that make a charter memorable.
Her background across hospitality, tourism, management, and real estate has shaped her into a confident and reliable professional who thrives in dynamic environments.
Outside of work, she expresses her creativity through oil painting, often decorated with zircons, and enjoys singing and long walks by the sea.

DECKHAND ADALBERTO PARA

Adalberto has been involved in the nautical world since childhood, starting with dinghy sailing and progressing to maxi sailboats. Sailing has always been a true passion, giving him a strong connection to the sea, a love for freedom, and a deep respect for life on the water.
Over the years, he has also gained experience working in refit teams and with Seakeeper systems, building solid technical and hands-on knowledge of the industry.
He is known for his determination, consistency, and passion for the sea. He enjoys creating a positive onboard atmosphere and often entertains guests with water activities, always aiming to bring energy, fun, and smiles to their experience.
Outside of work, he is dedicated to self-improvement and personal growth. He enjoys gym training and road cycling, using both as ways to stay disciplined, active, and continuously develop his career in the nautical world.

SECOND STEWARDESS MAITE SPENCER

Maite is a professional with a fascinating academic background in forensic science and psychology, which reflects her naturally observant, thoughtful, and detail-oriented way of working. She has lived and worked abroad in Spain and Argentina, gaining valuable international experience and cultural understanding.
She is known for her calm presence, strong work ethic, and reliability, especially during busy and demanding charter days. Maite thrives in fast-paced environments, always staying composed, adaptable, and ready to adjust smoothly to guests’ needs.
With a sharp eye for detail and a naturally intuitive approach, she enjoys anticipating preferences and reading the small cues that help create a truly personalized and high-standard guest experience.
In her free time, she loves staying active, spending time outdoors, and traveling to discover new places and cultures. She also enjoys socializing with friends and making the most of her downtime with a relaxed, positive energy.

ENGINEER SENAKA GALBADA

Senaka is a highly experienced engineer with over 20 years of work on commercial vessels and yachts. He is a true team player, known for his collaborative spirit and his ability to keep all systems onboard well-maintained and up to date.
Calm, patient, and highly focused, he takes great pride in ensuring the smooth and safe operation of all machinery, always working behind the scenes to guarantee total comfort for guests and a reliable charter experience.
He is dedicated, consistent, and detail-oriented, supporting the team wherever needed to make sure everything runs seamlessly onboard.
In his free time, he enjoys watching movies and relaxing, and he has a unique passion for learning about and collecting Sri Lankan gemstones, which reflects his curiosity and appreciation for detail and craftsmanship.