My passion for the sea began early, with my mother teaching me the basics on small sailing boats. However, it wasn’t until 2018 that my life shifted course when I joined Shtandart for a two-week sailing holiday. The experience was like nothing ever before. I made new friends and developed a deep bond with the ship that would eventually change the course of my life.
I found myself returning to Shtandart again and again, volunteering during the winter maintenance and balancing time and a job on land with my passion for sailing. Over time, the sea became more than just an escape; it became a calling.
Eventually, I made the life-changing decision to leave my job and embrace life at sea fully. My journey aboard Shtandart wasn’t just about sailing; it was about learning, growing, and taking on new responsibilities. I had worked 10 years as an engineer and consultant on land. But this was a totally new level of challenge. With a background as a climbing instructor, I was drawn to the ropes and rigging, and became one of the ship’s riggers. I advanced my skills, working alongside the carpenter and other officers and I became part of a tight-knit team, committed to sailing and maintaining the ship and its mission.
At the same time I started studying again. I enrolled at Enkhuizen Nautical College in the Netherlands for a professional merchant marine education. This complemented my hands-on experience, combining practical seamanship with a foundation in maritime theory.Today, I serve as Captain aboard Shtandart on a voluntary basis, leading a diverse crew from various backgrounds and nations. My journey from trainee to Captain has taught me that true leadership at sea is about trust, teamwork, and constant improvement. Without Shtandart, I would probably never have found the sea
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