CAPTAIN GEORGE
Cheerful, responsible, and professional!
These are some of the skills endorsed by AD ASTRA 80 guests for Captain George. The experienced captain was born in Cyprus in 1970 and has had Athens as his permanent residence since 1990. He began sailing in 1993 until he decided to make his love for yachts and tourism part of his career and life in 2001. He studied Shipping, Travel & Tourism. His naval education includes the MCA/RYA Offshore Yacht Master, National Sailing Offshore Diploma, and Greek Coastguard powerboat certification.
His experience as captain of several luxury sailing and motor yachts in Greece and the South Mediterranean has given him the opportunity and pleasure to sail to the most amazing and secluded spots in the Greek seas! As a captain, he maintains a professional and friendly attitude, making all guests feel welcome and ensuring they have the sailing holiday of a lifetime. For Captain George and his crew, providing high-quality hospitality to their guests is their top priority daily.
His experience as captain of several luxury sailing and motor yachts in Greece and the South Mediterranean has given him the opportunity and pleasure to sail to the most amazing and secluded spots on the Greek seas! As a captain, he maintains a professional and friendly attitude, making all guests feel welcome and ensuring they have the sailing holiday of a lifetime. For Captain George and his crew, providing high-quality hospitality to their guests is their top priority daily.
CHEF PANAGIOTIS
Panagiotis, born in 1999, brings a fresh culinary perspective to the team aboard Ad Astra. Having graduated from LeMonde in 2020, he embarked on a journey through some of Greece’s finest restaurants in Athens, Skiathos, and Mykonos starting in 2018. Fluent in Greek and English, Panagiotis not only crafts delectable dishes but also fosters a welcoming atmosphere with his exceptional customer service. His strengths lie in his team spirit, his ability to thrive under pressure, and his adept problem-solving skills, ensuring seamless operations in the galley and beyond. With his dedication to culinary excellence and a passion for creating memorable dining experiences, Panagiotis is determined to elevate the gastronomic journey aboard Ad Astra to new heights.
CHIEF STEWARDESS VASILIKI
Vasiliki brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role as Chief Stewardess. With a decade in the luxury service industry, specifically in 5-star hotels and Michelin-star restaurants, she excels in providing top-tier service and ensuring a seamless and luxurious experience for all guests. Vasiliki’s keen eye for detail and exceptional organizational skills make her an invaluable leader of the stewarding team.
DECKHAND/STEWARDESS MARINA
Meet Marina, the vibrant stewardess on board Ad Astra. A dynamic blend of Italian heritage and Greek roots, Marina brings with her a stellar maritime background, having served as a Petty Officer in the Hellenic Navy. With her seafaring precision, impeccable service skills—including silver service, wine presentation, and elegant table arrangements—she’s set to elevate the onboard experience. Currently pursuing Maritime Studies in Athens, Marina is fluent in Italian, Greek, and English, and thrives in fast-paced, multicultural environments. Energetic, adaptable, and always professional, she’s known for her calm presence, sharp eye for detail, and unwavering commitment to excellence!
DECKHAND PANAGIOTIS
Introducing Panagiotis Vaitsis, a motivated Athens-born maritime professional (born 1996) preparing to bring his energy and reliability to Ad Astra 80. With a solid technical foundation from yacht maintenance and winterization roles in Athens, Panagiotis further strengthened his seamanship as a Petty Officer in the Greek Navy, serving on the bridge with responsibilities including course guidance and chart plotting, alongside vessel upkeep and equipment operation at sea. Most recently, he has worked as a professional diver (2023–2025), completing visual hull inspections, underwater repairs, and marina mooring restorations—demonstrating composure, physical capability, and strong safety discipline in demanding conditions. Backed by a Sailing & Speedboat License, Seaman’s Book, and SSI Open Water certification, Panagiotis is adaptable, team-oriented, and fully committed to delivering high standards on board.