This winter, we set out on a 34-day sailing adventure from Les Sables d’Olonne, France, to Greece. It was an unforgettable experience, braving the elements and the sea during the colder months. While many might imagine sailing as sun-soaked and tranquil, our journey was a testament to the beauty and challenges of winter sailing. Here's how it all unfolded. Les Sables d’Olonne: 10 days Immersed in the Vendée Globe and Les Sables d'Olonne We started in Les Sables d’Olonne, a town alive with the spirit of adventure despite the chilly November air. This seaside town is home to the Vendée Globe, a world-famous solo, non-stop, and unassisted round-the-world sailing race. The energy was electric, and the harbor bustled with sailors, teams, and fans preparing for the race’s start. For over a week, we soaked in the excitement as tourists from all over also arrived to witness history once again. We also explored what the town has to offer, from the picturesque view, breathtaking landscape and the walks that makes this town special. The First Leg: Rough Seas and Finding Balance When we finally set sail in the beginning of November, the Atlantic greeted us with choppy waves, biting winds, and gray skies. The sea’s power was humbling, and I wasn’t prepared for how seasick I would feel. For three long days, I struggled to find my footing, questioning whether I was cut out for this. But there was one saving grace: the sun. Despite the wintry conditions, the sun shone brightly all day long, wrapping me in its warmth as I sat in the cockpit. Those hours were my refuge. With the vast ocean stretching endlessly ahead and sunlight glinting off the waves, I found moments of peace even as my body adjusted to the constant motion. By day four, something shifted. The sickness subsided, and I found a rhythm in the boat’s movement. The waves, once daunting, became a steady companion. I began to feel at home on the water. By day seven, we started seeing land again! Landfall in Portugal: A Welcome Respite After a week at sea, we arrived in Portugal. Touching solid ground felt surreal. We docked in the Marina to avoid the bad weather. I couldn’t shake the sensation that the earth itself was moving, echoing the rhythm of the waves. It was disorienting but fascinating, like my body wasn’t ready to leave the sea behind. We spent three days in this warm and welcoming country, enjoying the stark contrast between the wintery sea and Portugal’s lively coastal towns. The seafood was divine, the people kind, and the streets buzzing with life despite the season. It was hard to leave, but the sea was calling us onward. ![]() A Brief Stop in Gibraltar Our next stop was Gibraltar, but this was no vacation. We docked just long enough to refuel, with the iconic Rock of Gibraltar towering over us as we worked. The stop was quick, but even in its brevity, it left an impression. There’s something grounding about seeing such a monumental landmark during a fleeting moment in your journey. Carboneras: Stocking Up for the Next Stretch Two days later, we reached Carboneras, Spain. This small coastal town gave us a chance to restock supplies and enjoy a quieter slice of life onshore. Winter added a different charm to the town, with its narrow streets and local markets offering fresh produce and friendly smiles. It was a brief but refreshing pause before the next leg of our trip. Sicily: Final Supplies Before the Homestretch The Final Push: Four Days to Greece
We began the final leg of our journey. The four days from Sicily to Greece were marked by calm seas and long hours of reflection. Winter’s chill was ever-present, but the Mediterranean felt gentler now, as if it knew we were nearing the end of our odyssey. I spent hours on deck, bundled against the cold, watching the horizon and thinking about how far we’d come. Nights were particularly magical, with the stars shining brighter than I’d ever seen. It was humbling to feel so small yet so connected to the vastness around me. When the Greek coastline finally came into view, I felt a rush of joy and relief. We had made it! |
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AuthorMost of the hard work come from Kyrie's hand, Giorgos is the face on the photos, it's his "creative" shots and he's the master of the ceremony :) Live Your Myth Archives
December 2024
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