Name: Pantelis Koutsountelis
Position: Captain
Captain Pantelis brings a lifetime of sailing expertise and passion to his role. With a background in Economics, he has been immersed in the world of yachting since childhood, competing in sailing regattas from a young age. He inherited his first sailboat early in life, setting the foundation for a distinguished maritime career. Captain Pantelis holds prestigious certifications from the Hellenic Sailing Association and RYA/MCA (200GT), and he has served as an instructor and trainer for the American Sailing Association. Since 1988, he has been a prominent figure in the yacht charter industry, with extensive experience managing charter companies, overseeing yacht fleets, and captaining a diverse range of vessels. Beyond his professional achievements, Captain Pantelis has a deep love for jazz music, fine audio systems, and photography. A devoted family man, he is married with two children and shares his home with two elderly cats and a turtle. Captain Pantelis is known for his dedication, extensive experience, and warm personality, ensuring every charter is both safe and memorable.
Languages: English, intermediate French
Name: Dimitris Politakis
Position: Chef
Chef Dimitris brings over a decade of diverse culinary expertise to AKASTI. With experience spanning fine dining, catering, and private service, he has spent the last three years mastering the art of yacht cuisine. A graduate in Culinary Management, Dimitrios has honed his craft in prestigious establishments across Greece and Cyprus. Known for his creativity and precision, he excels in Mediterranean, Asian, and Peruvian dishes, with specialties including gluten-free and vegetarian options. As a former quarter-finalist on *MasterChef Greece*, he thrives under pressure, delivering exquisite flavors to delight AKASTI's guests.
Previous Yachts: M/Y NAMASTE, M/Y FREEDOM
Name: Alina Barbieru
Position: Stewardess
Alina is an accomplished yacht stewardess with over 10 seasons of yachting experience and a rich background in hospitality. Currently serving as the solo stewardess on Akasti, fluent in English and Romanian, Alina brings an exceptional array of interior qualifications to the Akasti team. She is skilled in silver service, sommelier-level wine expertise, advanced bartending, and barista techniques. Her expertise extends to flower arranging, cigars service, and creating impeccable table settings and decorations. Proficient in housekeeping, valet services, and event preparation, Alina is also well-versed in crew support procedures, ensuring a seamless onboard experience. Her excellent references from all her previous positions highlight her professionalism, adaptability, and unwavering dedication to high standards.
Previous Yachts: M/Y MARGARITA, S/Y BARACUDA, S/Y MALTESE FALCON, M/Y OPTION B
Name: Robert Jemina
Position: Deckhand
Robert is a deckhand with extensive experience on private yachts of 17m to 27m from 2005 to 2023, primarily operating in Greek waters. Throughout these years, he developed strong skills in tender driving, water toys operation, and deck maintenance, and has a comprehensive understanding of Greek coastal regions and maritime safety protocols. He speaks English and his background includes managing tender activities and ensuring vessel upkeep to the highest standards. Off duty, Robert is an active marathon runner and basketball player, which contributes to his physical endurance and team-oriented mindset on board. On a personal note, Robert is married with three children, and he brings a dedicated and proactive approach to his role, ensuring both safety and a memorable experience for guests of Akasti.
