In June, I embarked on a remarkable sailing boat journey that left me with unforgettable memories! With Elias as our incredible and reliable skipper, and Anetta as our delightful and supportive yoga instructor, we set sail across the beautiful Greek sea. The boat itself was impeccably clean and equipped with everything we could possibly need. Navigating from one island to another, we made stops at picturesque bays nestled around these lesser-known, remote islands. The crystal-clear water in which we took refreshing swims remains etched in my mind as the bluest I have ever seen. These islands exuded a serene charm and were not as crowded with tourists as the more popular destinations. I wholeheartedly recommend embarking on a journey with Elias and Anetta, and I myself am already looking forward to experiencing it again in the future!
It's been a fortnight since I returned from the sailing and yoga adventure, and I still find it hard to believe how absolutely incredible it was! Previously, I used to daydream about walking along marinas, surrounded by sailing boats, and now I had the privilege of actually living the boat life for an entire week! The sea, the islands, the delectable cuisine—everything about the surroundings was utterly breathtaking. However, what truly made this journey a perfect one was the remarkable company we had: Elias, with his relaxed demeanor, infectious humor, and exceptional sailing skills; Anetta, our lovely yoga teacher, who guided us to some of the most awe-inspiring locations for yoga and meditation that I have ever laid eyes upon, seamlessly adapting to the dynamic of our group; and the group itself, consisting of diverse personalities that contributed immensely to the collective experience, each one being incredibly inspiring in their own unique way. It was as if everything fell perfectly into place, and the connection among us all was simply magical. 😊
Our group consisted of a small, intimate gathering of six individuals, including our skilled skipper Elias and our wonderful yoga instructor Yvonne, making it an ideal arrangement. For those who have an affinity for the sea, this retreat is truly perfect, as it entails ample time spent sailing. In general, the experience of being on the water surpasses that of a land-based vacation. Not only do you navigate the waves, but you also have the opportunity to dive into the refreshing water, bask in the warm sun, and relish in the stunning landscapes. Combining these elements with yoga sessions held in unique locations on land was a truly enriching experience.I particularly valued the instructor's consideration for our personal preferences. Both my friend and I, having arrived tired from our work commitments, were not inclined towards morning practices. Our instructor respected our desires, allowing us to fully enjoy and engage in the retreat. Elias, our skipper, was also exceptional, dedicating ample time to our group and fostering a delightful camaraderie. As a result, even though I spent only a week on the boat, returning felt as though I had been away for an entire month. This complete disconnection from my everyday reality was truly revitalizing.
I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have crossed paths with an amazing group of individuals who were not only open-minded and kind but also possessed a great sense of humor and a shared enthusiasm for practicing yoga twice a day! Elias, our skipper, demonstrated exceptional skill in maneuvering the boat, effortlessly docking it in every harbor as if parking a car. The accommodation in the hotels met my expectations, with the exception of Tinos. The yoga classes were truly enjoyable, and while I personally would have welcomed more challenging practices, Yvonne did her utmost to adapt the exercises to accommodate participants of all levels.To enhance the comfort of sailing during windy weather, it would have been ideal to limit the number of people on the boat to a maximum of 10, including the skipper and yoga teacher. Additionally, it would have been beneficial to receive safety vests and comprehensive training on sailing and the responsibilities of all cruise members prior to embarking on the trip, ensuring a safer and more informed journey.
Each new day brings a fresh chapter, brimming with surprises... prepare to be captivated! The yoga instructors embraced our group's needs with open arms, always available for engaging conversations to impart their profound wisdom. With abundant experience and unwavering kindness, they were an invaluable source of support. Elias, alias Capitano, our trusted skipper, ensured our safety and wholeheartedly welcomed new ideas like swimming in the vast ocean. Serene, genial, and incredibly skilled, he guided us with unwavering confidence. This voyage took us through breathtaking destinations and soul-stirring journeys. I wholeheartedly endorse this trip, as it guarantees attentive care and a perfect amalgamation for open-minded yogis!
Initially, I felt a tinge of disappointment when we couldn't visit the Cyclades Islands. However, the alternative route proved to be equally enchanting, leading us to picturesque harbors, secluded bays, and even unexpected havens for yoga practice. Though the winds for sailing weren't as strong, we couldn't control the whims of the weather gods. But if you embrace the ebb and flow, you'll relish every moment, regardless of the elements. ;-) My heartfelt thanks go to Elias, Yvonne, and Athina for an unforgettable week, and to the incredible ladies who shared this profound experience with me! :-)
