Menelaos Papadopoulos

CaymanFrom August 2024 to March 2025, Menelaos Papadopoulos worked as Head Chef aboard the 81-meter sailing yacht S/Y Sea Eagle. As the sole chef responsible for both guests and crew, Menelaos delivered creative, consistently high-quality cuisine across a wide range of styles, earning admiration for both his technical skill and warm personality.

Performance Highlights

• Sole chef for 12 guests and 15 crew
• Expert in Mediterranean, Japanese, and fusion cuisine
• Delivered under pressure with calm professionalism
• Known for outstanding bread and pastry work
• Positive, flexible, and highly collaborative presence onboard

Captain’s Remarks

“Mel’s food was always thoughtfully prepared and tasted amazing. He’s a true professional who handles feedback with grace, keeps his cool under pressure, and makes every galley feel like home.”

“His baking was so good, we joked about hiding the loaves to make them last longer!”

Client: Capt. Henry Say – S/Y Sea Eagle
Location: Global | Registered in Bloody Bay, Cayman Islands
Dates: Aug 2024 – Mar 2025 Islands

Azamanta Yacht — Culinary Reference

Menelaos Papadopoulos served as Head Chef aboard the 55-meter M/Y Azamanta from March 2020 to February 2023. The yacht, built by Heesen and registered in the Cayman Islands, operated under voluntary commercial standards (ISM, ISPS, MLC) despite being privately owned.

During his time onboard, Mel consistently delivered exceptional meals to both guests and crew, combining creativity with discipline and strong kitchen leadership. His ability to keep spirits high and stomachs full made him an integral part of the yacht’s daily life.

Performance Highlights

• Delivered outstanding cuisine for both guests and crew
• Maintained high morale through a warm, social presence
• Managed full galley operations, from provisioning to budgeting
• Trained sous chef and ran a highly efficient department
• Created legendary focaccia (the best I’ve ever had – per Chief Officer)

Officer’s Remarks

“Mel was always upbeat, a real team player who made the mess feel like home. His food standards were exceptional, and he kept the crew well-fed through tough winter seasons.”

“He’s as reliable as he is talented — proactive, organized, and a pleasure to work with.”

Client: Daniel Boardman – Chief Officer, M/Y Azamanta
Location: Global | Registered in Cayman Islands
Dates: Mar 2020 – Feb 2023

M/Y Clio | Head Chef Service Reference

Date: 30th January 2020
Location: British Cayman Islands

Menelaos Papadopoulos – Culinary Excellence Onboard Clio

From 24th May 2016 to 14th February 2020, I served as Head Chef aboard M/Y Clio, a 72.6-meter LÜRSSEN-built motor yacht, registered in the British Cayman Islands (Official No. 737349, Gross Tonnage: 2194). The yacht operates privately but adheres to commercial standards in line with the ISM code.

During this period, I was responsible for managing the entire culinary program for both guests and crew, and the role demanded high standards of performance, discipline, and creativity.

What I Delivered

• Guest Cuisine Excellence
  Crafted an extensive variety of gourmet meals tailored to guest preferences and dietary needs, consistently exceeding expectations.
• Crew Support & Nutrition
  Maintained top-tier food quality for the crew, ensuring morale and energy levels remained high—even during long charters and off-season periods.
• Galley Management
  Oversaw hygiene standards, budgeting, provisioning, and inventory, while always delivering on time and within budget.
• Leadership & Mentorship
  Trained and mentored sous and crew chefs, fostering a collaborative and positive team dynamic in the galley.

Recognition & Departure

Throughout my time onboard, I was consistently appreciated for my positive outlook, dedication, and ability to communicate effortlessly across all ranks—guests, officers, and crew alike.

My departure was due to a restructuring of the crew, with the head chef role made redundant. I left on excellent terms, with the team expressing willingness to rehire should an opportunity arise in future.

Client:
Peter Chisholm, Captain – M/Y Clio
📞 +33 786 29 15 25
📧 (Contact available upon request)