HAKUNA MATATA Yacht Charter

Captain: Ilias Tsikos

Name: Ilias Tsikos
Position: Captain
Nationality: Greek
Description:
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 licence. 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 travelling provides Ilias with the 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.”

Name: Stefanos Fournaris
Position: Engineer
Nationality: Greek
Description:
Stefanos, born in 1983, holds an MSc degree with distinction in Marine Engineering Management from Greenwich University. His journey started 2 decades ago as a cadet on commercial ships and through constant training and education he succeeded in becoming a Class A’ Chief Engineer. During the past 5 years he has been sailing on board cruise ships and recently he joined the yachting industry. His seamanship credentials include a Ro-Ro Watchkeeping Certificate, an Advanced Steersman and Operator licence, and a Speed Boat operator licence. Stefanos has also received extensive onboard safety training and has an Emergency Responder (CPR – First Aid) Certificate, a Security Awareness Training Certificate as well as an Advanced Fire Fighting Operations Certificate. He is also a holder of an advanced open water diver licence. His motivation and ability to excel in multitasking roles, have proven paramount in his success. The multifaceted personality that Stefanos demonstrates, make him a desirable member for any crew team. Guests will also appreciate his discrete personality and kind manners. Stefanos speaks fluent English and beginner level Spanish.
Previous Yachts: M/Y HAPPY DAY

Name: Tatiana Konstantinidi
Position: Chef
Nationality: Greek
Description:
Born in 1985, Tatiana holds a Master’s Degree in Organic Chemistry by the University of Crete and a Certificate in Molecular Gastronomy. She has completed the STCW training course and holds a Level 2 Certificate for Food Safety & Hygiene, as well as an SSI Advanced Diver licence. Tatiana joined the yachting industry 5 years ago as a chef on board charter yachts. She is a highly motivated and dynamic individual, constantly learning new culinary techniques. Her love and passion for food is reflected in her knowledge of the Mediterranean, Latin, Asian and International cuisine.Tatiana is always eager to go the extra mile, tending to the guests’ needs and adding to the on-board experience. She is a team player with a professional attitude and a colorful personality–qualities that make her an excellent fit for Hakuna Matata. She speaks fluent English and Spanish, as well as basic German and French. Her hobbies include volunteering, crafting natural cosmetics, hiking, diving and climbing.
Previous Yachts: s/y Valium 62, s/y Nomad, m/y Wildcard

Name: Marios Filipatos
Position: Bosun
Nationality: Greek
Description:
Marios is an experienced seaman who has held numerous positions in various vessels ranging from 64 ft to 279 ft. He stands out for his communication abilities, efficiency, and sense of duty. His background includes a degree in Business Management from Southeastern College as well as a Yachtmaster Offshore certificate. He is also trained in maritime safety systems and is a licenced advanced open-water diver. Marios was enlisted in the 1st airborne division during his military service and knows how to keep his composure in demanding situations. His friendly personality and team spirit make him a wonderful addition to the crew of Hakuna Matata.

Name: Vassilis Papadam
Position: Deckhand
Nationality: Greek
Description:

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 by Michigan University. He also holds a licence 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.
Vasillis is a good communicator and a team player. His pleasant and friendly demeanor is a perfect match for the crew of Hakuna Matata.

Name: Angela Gkiata
Position: Stewardess
Nationality: Albanian
Description:
Angela, born in 1994, graduated from Sivitanidios Vocational School in Thessaloniki, specialising as an assistant nurse.
Before entering the yachting industry, she was a Flight Attendant for Qatar Airways where she got comfortable with operating at a high level of activity. Prior to moving to the yachting industry, she obtained all necessary seafaring certifications by completing the STCW Basic Safety Training for large yachts along with issuing her Greek Seaman’s Book. Angela entered the charter industry 3 years ago, initially working as hostess/cook on board a catamaran, before jumping onto large motoryachts. During this time, she proved that she has plenty of stamina in handling simultaneous roles in demanding conditions. Within her capacity she has been entrusted with all the necessary preparations such as cabin arrangements, exterior maintenance, beverage preparation, laundry, table services and more, all of which are key for a successful charter experience. Angela is an excellent team player and an avid learner, always willing to assist her colleagues. Her discrete manners and proper etiquette are excellent attributes and complement the rest of the crew of Hakuna Matata. Her mother tongue includes both Greek and Albanian and she also speaks English fluently.
Previous yachts: m/y Salty, m/y Grace, m/y Armonia
Name: Pandora Vouga


Position: Chief Stewardess
Nationality: Greek
Description:
Pandora has 2 decades of experience in charter yachts over 100 feet where she has attained a successful track record in optimising luxury yacht operations. She holds all appropriate certifications including an STCW Bosun license, a Safety and Fire certificate, a Lifeguarding certificate, and a Speedboat license. Pandora’s expertise covers all aspects of on-board operations, offering full guest service, organisation and implementation of Health and Safety, silver service and fine dining, as well as budget planning and inventories. Her passion for impeccable client service is what sets her apart as a Chief Stewardess while her positive attitude is always instilled to guests and crew alike. With a hands-on attitude and excellent communication skills, Pandora’s personality fits in naturally within teams of competitive charter yachts such as Hakuna Matata. Previous Yachts: m/y JuneLuck 47m, m/y Feligo 33m, m/y Zaliv VI 45m