Athina I. Martinou

They meet on the beach of Glyfada and marry shortly after. Together they have four children: Thanasis, Eleni, Dinos, and Andreas.

In the following years, she works alongside her husband, the owner of the renowned antique shop “Martinos” on Pandrossou Street in Monastiraki. Thanks to her fluency in foreign languages, she plays a key role in the shop’s international business dealings.

Her love for the sea and ships leads her to invest in shipping. She acquires her first vessel, the steamship A/P “Thanasis”.

The two first ships are managed by the Methenitis brothers’ shipping business, based in Piraeus.

The third ship follows, the cargo ship “Dinos M.”

She establishes an office in Piraeus. In the early years, her eldest son Thanasis stands at the helm beside her, while Dinos and Andreas gradually come on board. In addition to managing the shipping company, she also leads its legal department.

She founds Thenamaris with her sons- Thanasis, Dinos, and Andreas. Within just four years, the company’s fleet has grown to 36 ships.
After the death of Ioannis Martinos in 1977, she chooses a quieter life close to nature, settling on her estate in Anavyssos. There, she dedicates her spare time in the production of pistachios, olives and wine.

A wave of new ship orders follows, marking a period of expansion. In 1986, Thenamaris relocates its headquarters to Vouliagmeni.

By the end of the decade, the company diversifies beyond cargo vessels, entering the tanker industry. With full confidence in her children, she gradually entrusts them with the management of the business.

Athina I. Martinou receives a recognition of her achievements: she is honored by Lloyd’s and is knighted as a Knight of Malta.

The new ships are primarily double-hull tankers.

The company’s fleet grows to 45 ships.

The family’s shipping legacy expands further: Thanasis Martinos establishes Eastern Mediterranean Maritime Limited (EASTMED) and Andreas Martinos founds Minerva Marine.

In 2018, Thenamaris Singapore is established, providing commercial management services for tankers and bulk carriers operating in the Asia-Pacific region.

Athina I. Martinou continues to serve as a trusted advisor in the family’s shipping businesses/ ventures.

At the same time, the family broadens its philanthropic footprint, supporting a range of charitable initiatives and public causes.

It is inspired by her values – equality, respect, humility, meritocracy – which form the cornerstone of the foundation’s mission and goals.

Among its key initiatives, the Foundation announces a grant for the construction of a new wing at the Asclepius General Hospital in Voula, furthering its commitment to public well-being.

The Program, designed for students of the Merchant Marine Academies (A.E.N), reflects her vision to promote Greek seamanship and maritime education. It supports, those who choose to pursue a career at sea- offering them equal opportunities every step of the way.

She passes away at the age of 97, leaving behind four children, 13 grandchildren, and 34 great-grandchildren.

Her legacy to future generations is immeasurable: a life dedicated to selfless service to humanity and Greek society, and an enduring love for the sea and shipping—her lifelong vision and passion.