Learn to Sail on a Classic 18-Meter Ketch
Many sailors complete their first sailing course dreaming about bigger adventures, only to discover that opportunities to gain experience aboard larger yachts are surprisingly rare. This expedition was created for those who already understand the basics of sailing and want to broaden their practical experience aboard a true expedition yacht, not simply repeat familiar exercises on another small training boat.
Yacht Ganesh is an 18-meter steel ketch — a completely different class of sailing yacht from the production cruisers commonly used by sailing schools. With two masts, three working sails, twin Volvo Penta engines and the displacement of nearly 36 tons, she demands different techniques, different planning and a different approach to teamwork. Every maneuver feels different, every decision carries more weight, and every successful passage builds confidence that can only come from practical experience.
This is not a sailing school and not a certification course. There are no classrooms, no examinations and no certificates waiting at the end. Instead, participants spend several days living aboard a real expedition yacht, taking part in sail handling, helming, anchoring, passage planning, navigation and everyday life at sea under the guidance of an experienced RYA-qualified skipper who has spent the last eight years living aboard full-time.
Our route explores the beautiful waters of the North Aegean around Chios and its neighboring islands. Weather permitting, every participant will have the opportunity to steer the yacht, trim sails, work with the ketch rig and experience what it is really like to handle a large blue-water cruising yacht. For sailors looking to move beyond the basics, there are few experiences more valuable than time spent aboard a vessel built for serious offshore cruising.
Details
- Route Path / Stops: Chios - Samos - Fourni - ... - Chios
- Distance: 100 km
Tour Philosophy
Experience is the best instructor. This expedition is built around practical participation rather than formal lessons, giving sailors the opportunity to broaden their skills aboard a larger and more complex yacht. We believe confidence comes from real responsibility, shared teamwork and time spent at sea.
Target Audience
This expedition is intended for sailors who have already completed an introductory sailing course or have basic sailing experience and want to develop their practical skills aboard a larger cruising yacht. It is equally suitable for yacht owners, aspiring skippers and adventurous travelers who enjoy active participation, continuous learning and life at sea in a small international crew.
Tour Media Gallery
What’s Included in the Tour
• Accommodation aboard Yacht Ganesh
• Professional RYA-certified skipper
• Practical sailing experience on an 18-meter steel ketch
• Hands-on participation in sail handling and yacht operations
• Passage planning and navigation discussions
• Bed linen and blankets
• Marina and anchorage fees
• Fuel for the planned expedition
• Coffee, tea and drinking water
• Final cleaning
What is Not Included
• Flights to and from Chios, Greece
• Travel and medical insurance
• Meals and personal provisions
• Alcoholic beverages
• Personal expenses
• Airport transfers
• Optional activities ashore
