Sailing Into the Storm: How Greece Turned Me Into a Cruiser

Published 9:05am on 6 Dec 2025

By Leticia Christopherson

A chance invitation turned my ASA certification plan into a stormy, beautiful sailing journey through the Greek islands. Along the way, I discovered how much I love cruising.

My goal for 2025 was to earn my ASA 101/103/104 certifications, but I had no idea where I wanted to go. Then Berry Kruijning, OWSA member and sailing instructor, asked if I'd be interested in getting my 103/104 in Greece. I jumped at the opportunity.

I finished my ASA 101 through Island Sailing Club in the spring since my Greece trip was in the fall. After taking OWSAs basic course and BOAST, I was confident in my skills and felt ready. I booked my trip to Athens with another OWSA member who was also doing the sailing course. We were excited to do this together!

Greece was never on my bucket list, but after going there, I can't wait to go again. We spent a few days in Athens, and it was breathtaking. Everywhere, the people were so helpful, and the food was amazing. After 3 days, we were on a bus to Lefkada, an island 5 hours northwest of Athens. As soon as we got there, the weather changed. We brought the rain!

There were two learning boats plus a cruising boat. My learning boat was a Beneteau Oceanis 41 named Beleza. Even though we had an itinerary before boarding, we had to pivot our plans due to the possible Medicane (a Mediterranean hurricane). The charter company owner told us this only happens once every five years -  lucky us. The skippers discuss the plan every morning, studying the changing weather and plotting new destinations. Once decisions were made, they would share the changes with the crew. Being flexible is something I quickly learned.

We had a few nice days during which we were able to sail. On the not-so-nice days, we studied and went around town. We went to Kastos, Kioni, Ithaca, Stavros, and Syvota. Some beautiful sunrises and sunsets came with the storms. The water was crystal blue, as people describe it. It was a bit cold for me to swim, but I did get in. Did you know there is no current in the Ionian Sea?

Berry and the chartering company were amazing. I thought I would like cruising, but I fell in LOVE with it. Now with my 104, I can charter a boat in most places. Ill keep logging my time on the water and improving my skills as a skipper. I cant wait for my next sailing adventure!