CAPTAIN ILIAS
Captain Ilias is a passionate seaman who has extensively sailed the Mediterranean. His early years were spent studying and practicing at the Hellenic Merchant Marine Academy and he now holds the highest grade of seafarer qualification, the Master Mariner Unlimited Licence, as well as a sailing boat unlimited license. Previously a captain of a 57-metre motor yacht as well as various 30-metre-plus motor yachts – private and charter – the breadth of his yachting expertise is unquestionable. His love for traveling provides Ilias with a passion for all kinds of activities and he is always willing to enhance the onboard experience.
He is a certified dive instructor, speaks Greek and English fluently, and is married with 2 children.”
ENGINEER THOMAS
Thomas Efstratios, a highly experienced Chief Engineer from Greece, brings over 25 years of industry experience and holds a Chief Engineer Class A degree. Having served on various new build projects and charter boats, including the M/Y BELLA STELLA CRN 45m and the M/Y SEAKID 45m, he recently joined the HAKUNA MATATA team as Chief Engineer. Thomas is proficient in handling electric and pneumatic control systems and possesses various certificates, including Chief Engineer STCW A Class, Fire Fighting & Life Saving, Ship Security Officer (S.S.O.), and Speed Craft & Rescue Boats. He is a sociable team player who values collaboration and his exceptional work ethic and expertise make him a perfect fit for the HAKUNA MATATA team. Thomas indulges his passions outside of work for free diving, cycling, fishing, and spearfishing.
CHEF STAMATIS
Introducing Stamatis, the esteemed chef for M/Y Hakuna Matata. Hailing from Greece, Stamatis is a seasoned culinary professional with an impressive 20-year career dedicated to the art of gastronomy. His expertise extends across various domains, from delivering high-volume dining services in restaurants and luxury hotels to curating exceptional culinary experiences aboard yachts and at private events. Specializing in Mediterranean cuisine, Stamatis is adept at preparing and presenting dishes of outstanding quality, ensuring memorable dining moments for the guests.
Beyond his culinary prowess, he brings strong coaching skills to the table, fostering a trained, organized, and motivated team. His commitment to safety is reflected in his training in HACCP food regulations and certification in the Seaman’s International Convention on Standards of Training. With fluency in both English and French, particularly in culinary terms, Stamatis brings a wealth of international experience, having previously served on renowned yachts such as M/Y Mobius, M/Y Mamma Mia, and M/Y Vera.
BOSUN VASSILIS
Vassilis decided to follow his passion for seafaring and jumped from the service industry to yachting, where he has already gained considerable experience aboard a 93-metre Feadship and a 38-metre Benetti. His devotion to meticulously maintaining the yachts on which he serves and his active personality keep him constantly searching for new ways to contribute to the guest experience.
He is a graduate of the National School of Life Saving & Firefighting Appliances of Aspropyrgos and has received a certificate of competency in English from Michigan University.
He also holds a license for speedboats and has been trained in security awareness. Having completed his STCW training, he is now a certified seaman of large yachts. His hobbies include martial arts and water sports. Vassilis is a good communicator and a team player. His pleasant and friendly demeanor is a perfect match for the crew of Hakuna Matata.
DECKHAND CHRISTOS
Christos Halikiopoulos is a 20-year-old deckhand who recently completed his military service as a Mechanical Systems Technician, specializing in the Watch, Prevention, and Fire-Fighting Department. He holds a Professional High School Diploma in Commercial Navy Engineering, as well as several other certificates in maritime safety and security. With a positive attitude and an eagerness to learn, Christos is a dedicated team player committed to ensuring the safety and success of crew members and guests on board the “HAKUNA MATATA”. His excellent communication skills and attention to detail make him a valuable asset to any team, as he works collaboratively to achieve shared goals and objectives.
CHIEF STEWARDESS ELENI
Eleni is a highly skilled and experienced chief stewardess with a passion for adventure, fitness, and creativity. Born in 1978, Eleni is a Greek national with an unwavering dedication to her craft. Eleni’s journey in the hospitality industry began in 2004 when she worked as a flight attendant for Aegean Airlines. Her training in aviation safety and customer service paved the way for her to work for several private aviation companies, including Gain Jet Aviation and Consolidated Contractors Company, where she served as a chief corporate flight attendant. During her tenure in aviation, Eleni garnered valuable expertise in emergency procedures, first aid, dangerous goods handling, and more. In 2019, Eleni ventured into the yachting industry, working as a second stewardess for a 24m charter yacht before becoming a chief stewardess for a private 43m motor yacht.
Eleni’s extensive experience in both aviation and yachting industries makes her a versatile and valuable asset to any yacht crew. Eleni holds various certifications, including an ENG1 Medical, Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting Training, Elementary First Aid, and Personal Survival Techniques. She is fluent in English and speaks Italian and elementary French. When not onboard, Eleni indulges in her hobbies, which include volleyball, biking, hiking, free diving, swimming, painting, cooking, and sewing. With her diverse skill set, strong work ethic, and passion for hospitality, Eleni is undoubtedly an asset to any yacht looking for a chief stewardess who is committed to excellence.
STEWARDESS SOFIA
Meet Sofia, a talented stewardess with a two-year track record in the yachting industry. Originally hailing from Greece, Sofia’s passion for hospitality management has led her to earn a degree in the field, and she has also completed several courses in food and beverage service, wine pairing, and interior design. With her excellent command of the English language, as well as her basic knowledge of German and Italian, Sofia excels at effectively communicating with guests from all corners of the globe.
Sofia is a dedicated and hardworking professional who takes great pride in delivering unforgettable experiences to guests onboard. Her attention to detail and unwavering commitment to service excellence make her an invaluable asset to any yacht crew. Whether it’s ensuring that the guest’s culinary preferences are perfectly catered to, or creating an ambiance of comfort and luxury in the vessel’s interior, Sofia’s expertise and passion shine through in every aspect of her work.
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