ANKA

Captain: Sokratis Fani

Sokratis Fani (Captain) spent over 10 years navigating all of the Mediterranean, Arabian Gulf and Pacific Ocean as a private and charter captain. He is passionate about creating an interesting and tailor made itineraries to ensure, that the guests visit the unique places during their holidays.
Sokratis is a great believer in a team work and prefers ‘lead by exampleʼ when managing his team of four. He takes care of his crew and the crew take care of the guests. From his guests to his crew, he loves making people feel happy and safe. During his free time, his favorite activity is trying new motorsports while discovering new places.

Viktoriia Shcherbakova (chef) is a highly capable and versatile professional with extensive experience in both yacht hospitality and culinary service. Trained in hotel management and gastronomy, she has consistently demonstrated excellence in stewardess and chef roles aboard luxury vessels across Europe. Viktoriia is well-versed in guest care, interior detailing, provisioning, and gourmet meal preparation for both private owners and charter guests. Her professional profile is supported by STCW certification, a valid seafarer’s book, and licenses for both cooking and tender driving. Adaptable, detail-oriented, and service-driven, she brings a refined, hands-on approach to onboard operations.

Christos Fani (Chief Officer) is an experienced and dedicated Chief Officer with a solid background in maritime operations and navigation. With progressive responsibilities onboard various vessels—including cargo ships and private yachts—he has demonstrated strong leadership, safety awareness, and team coordination. He holds multiple STCW certifications, including GMDSS, Advanced Fire Fighting, and Ship Security Officer, and is proficient in ship simulation and ECDIS systems. Christos is fluent in Greek and English, and is currently serving aboard M/Y ANKA under Diamantides Yachting. He is seeking new opportunities where he can further apply his skills and contribute to safe, efficient vessel operations.

Yuliia Kahanovich (stewardess) is a dedicated and passionate stewardess with international yachting and cruise ship experience. She has worked as a solo stewardess and deckhand on private yachts across Cyprus and Spain, as well as serving in hospitality roles on European cruise vessels. Yuliia excels in housekeeping, guest service, table setting, and food & beverage preparation, always focusing on creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere onboard. With certifications in safety, security, and ship steward duties, and fluency in English, Ukrainian, and Russian, she brings professionalism, care, and a heartfelt approach to every aspect of her work at sea.

Ahmed (crew member) was born and grew up in Egypt. He has spent over 5 years gathering experience of working as a deckhand on various vessels such as S/Y Nafsika, F/V Saint Rafael and S/Y Salone. With time spent in the eastern Mediterranean, Ahmed has a good foundation of marine knowledge. He is proving to be very professional, dedicated and hard worker, and will ensure that every guest feels safe and has the most astonishing time during their vacation. Ahmed loves the cruising life- style, and in his spare time he enjoys fishing and sailing on various size boats. He speaks in three languages Egyptian, Greek and English.

Sara Welgemoed (stewardess) is a motivated and versatile individual with a strong academic background in Social Sciences, focusing on Psychology and Religion, and currently expanding her knowledge in Medical Neuroscience. She has diverse work experience, including roles in education, tutoring, childcare, hospitality, and promotional events. Sara is certified in various maritime safety and deckhand courses, and has experience sailing. She is known for her professionalism, adaptability, and strong interpersonal skills, thriving in dynamic, social environments.