HAKUNA MATATA

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: Thomas Efstratios
Position: Engineer
Nationality: Greek
Description:
Thomas Efstratios, a highly experienced Chief Engineer from Greece, brings over 25 years of industry experience to the table 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. Outside of work, Thomas indulges his passions for free diving, cycling, fishing, and spearfishing.

Name: Dimitris Athanasopoulos
Position: Chef
Nationality: Greek
Description:
Dimitris is an experienced chef with over 20 years in high-end culinary roles, including private and charter yacht service. Trained at LE MONDE Culinary School, he has worked at prestigious establishments such as St John Luxury Resort Mykonos, Elounda Bay Resort, and Astir Palace, often serving as a sous chef or banquet chef. He is skilled in Mediterranean cuisine, food styling, and holds certifications in HACCP and luxury customer service. Fluent in English, Dimitris brings professionalism and creativity to every kitchen he leads. Previous yacht M/Y JESMA II.

Name: Aristotelis Adamopoulos
Position: Bosun
Nationality: Greek
Description:
Aristotelis is an accomplished deckhand with a wealth of experience in the yachting industry. His tenure aboard prestigious motor yachts such as M/Y GRACE, M/Y CHAMPAGNE SEAS, and M/Y SUMMER DREAMS has equipped him with a deep understanding of yacht operations and exceptional proficiency in deckhand duties. Furthermore, his time as an MSO (Maritime Security Operator) Team Leader at DIAPLOUS underscores his dedication to maritime excellence and safety. With his comprehensive yachting background, Aristotelis brings professionalism, skill, and a passion for the sea on board Hakuna Matata.

Name: Christos Halikiopoulos
Position: Deckhand
Nationality: Greek
Description:
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.

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 naturally with the team of Hakuna Matata to which she returns for the second season. Previous Yachts: m/y Rare Diamond, m/y Feligo 33m, m/y Zaliv VI 45m.

Name: Angela Gjata
Position: Second 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. Angela entered the charter industry in 2019 initially working as hostess/cook on board a catamaran, before jumping onto large motor-yachts. 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: Antonia Tzounakou
Position: Third Stewardess
Nationality: Greek
Description:
Antonia is a dedicated and enthusiastic new addition to the yachting industry, bringing with her a strong foundation in hospitality and guest service gained in fast-paced, high-end retail and guest service environments. With a natural flair for customer care, she delivers service with warmth, professionalism, and attention to detail, ensuring guests feel welcomed and well attended at all times. Her adaptability, positive attitude, and excellent communication skills allow her to perform efficiently under pressure and integrate seamlessly within a team. Complemented by her creative background in architectural studies, Antonia has a refined eye for presentation and interior aesthetics, enhancing the onboard ambiance. She speaks English, enabling her to confidently interact with an international clientele.