The XIV Bonus Miles Educational Flotilla is an intensive and hands-on program designed for beginners who are ready to dive into the world of sailing. If you’ve always dreamed of learning how to sail and exploring the open sea, this is the perfect opportunity to make it happen.
This program offers comprehensive training focused on real conditions at sea. You will develop essential skills such as steering, sail trimming, and basic navigation, all under the guidance of experienced instructors.
Learning takes place directly on board, not in a classroom. You will gain practical experience by operating a sailboat in real scenarios, building confidence and understanding through direct application.
The approach is interactive, supportive, and focused on helping you progress quickly and effectively. By the end of the week, you will have a solid foundation in sailing and the confidence to continue your journey on the water.
Scenic Greek Landscapes: Discover some of the most beautiful coastal areas of Greece, combining education with exploration.
Intensive and interactive training in real conditions
Internationally Recognized Certification: Obtain a globally valid beginner’s sailing license.
7 Days at Sea: Full week of sailing, with daily hands-on practice.
Immersive Experience: Real-time sailing challenges and navigation in diverse sea conditions.
Flotilla Starting and Ending Locations
What is the route of the Flotilla?
The XIV Bonus Miles Flotilla offers a unique sailing experience designed to take participants on an exciting journey on Route II, from Volos to Fanari. As the second route of the XIV edition, it explores some of the most captivating and varied sailing grounds in Northern Greece.
The flotilla begins in Volos, a vibrant port city steeped in mythology and maritime tradition. From there, we set sail through the emerald waters of the Pagasetic Gulf and head toward the Sporades islands. With stops in destinations like Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonissos, sailors enjoy a mix of natural beauty, lush green landscapes, and crystal-clear anchorages.
Continuing east, the route takes us to Skyros, an island known for its wild terrain and distinct character. From there, we cross into the North Aegean, reaching the historic island of Limnos, where volcanic landscapes meet timeless villages and sheltered bays.
The journey continues to Samothrace, an island of raw beauty and spiritual heritage, famous for its waterfalls, ancient ruins, and rugged coastline. It’s a rare opportunity to explore a destination that combines natural wonder with deep historical roots.
The final stretch leads us to Fanari in Rodopi, a quiet seaside town on the Thracian coast, where the Aegean meets the wild beauty of Northern Greece. With its peaceful harbor, rich ecosystems, and welcoming atmosphere, Fanari provides a perfect end to this unforgettable adventure.
How are the Flotilla’s stops determined?
The flotilla’s stops are primarily determined by the weather conditions and the safety of the vessels and crews. At each stop, the crew gathers to analyze the prevailing conditions, assess the weather forecast, and plan the next leg of the journey safely. This flexibility allows participants to enjoy the route while adapting to the sea conditions
Choose your sailing license
Beginners
You can choose:
N.A.S.C License
The XIII Bonus Miles Flotilla offers the opportunity to earn an internationally recognized sailing license by N.A.S.C(North Aegean Sailing Club).This certification is valid globally without mile limitations for sailing vessels up to 24 meters in length. It is issued by the North Aegean Sailing Club, a member of the Hellenic Sailing Federation and World of Sailing
ISSA Licence
The XIII Bonus Miles Flotilla offers the opportunity to earn an internationally recognized sailing license by ISSA (International Sailing Schools Association). This certification provides global recognition of your sailing skills, opening doors to sail in various locations around the world. Participants will gain hands-on experience under real sea conditions, ensuring they develop the practical skills necessary to successfully obtain their ISSA license.
*there is also an option to obtain both diplomas from N.A.S.C & ISSA.
What is the duration?
The Educational Flotilla program offers a comprehensive learning experience that spans the entire duration of the flotilla. Each day, participants receive hands-on training directly onboard, navigating in real sea conditions. This approach allows students to apply the theoretical knowledge they acquire in a practical setting, making the learning process both immersive and effective.
In addition to the daily onboard lessons, certain theoretical modules are conducted via the Zoom platform. This provides flexibility for participants, ensuring that they can engage with the course material even outside of the sailing environment. The combination of in-person practical training and online theoretical instruction ensures that participants receive a well-rounded education, equipping them with both the skills and knowledge needed to confidently operate a sailing vessel.
This blended approach allows students to fully immerse themselves in the world of sailing, experiencing firsthand the challenges and rewards of life at sea, while also benefitting from structured theoretical instruction to reinforce their learning.
Participation Cost
Food and drink provisions are not included and must be arranged by the participants.
About ISSA
Headquartered in Cyprus, the International Sailing Schools Association (ISSA) is an international non-governmental organisation committed to offering opportunities worldwide for people who dream of learning sailing. ISSA helps those looking to start their sailing education in schools and also provides an international career pathway for sailing and windsurfing instructors to teach in different countries.
As a non-profit international association, ISSA sets common standards for quality and safety in sailing and windsurfing schools globally. These standards apply universally, ensuring consistent certification for students completing courses at all levels.ISSA ensures that all its sailing and windsurfing instructors are trained to the same high standards.
Promote Yachting in the regions, areas and among people where it is not popular yet. This is an excellent activity for individuals and families. Helps to develop respect to other people and nature.
Educate those who decided to occupy themselves with water sports. Water sport activities
provide a lot of fun, but we need to obtain some preparation to enjoy it to a full extent.
Standardise training worldwide. We are committed to assist the ISSA schools to maintain
the highest and most modern standards of education. We are also open to help those who
are not associated. With safety being the main priority.
Exchange Cultural Experiences between various countries. As an organisation present on
most of the continents we aim to contribute to mutual understanding of people originating
from different cultures.
Learn more about ISSA.
Let's meet our instructors
CHRISTOFOROS GKRITZELAKIS
Founder & Instructor of the Northern Aegean Sailing Club
Christoforos Gkritzelakis is a seasoned professional in the field of sailing with over 30 years of experience. For the past 20 years, he has worked as a dedicated instructor and coach in the sport of sailing, driven by his passion for athletics. His extensive knowledge and achievements have established him not only as a competitive sailor but also as one of the most respected instructors in Greece.
As the founder of the Northern Aegean Sailing Club (N.A.S.C.), Christoforos has mentored and trained hundreds of sailors and skippers. His teaching approach combines technical expertise with a deep passion for sailing, allowing him to impart valuable knowledge to his students. His commitment to the sport and his ability to explain complex techniques with clarity have made him a role model for many aspiring sailors.
Beyond teaching and mentoring, Christoforos is known for promoting teamwork, discipline, and respect for the sea among his students. His influence extends beyond the classroom or the yacht, as he inspires future generations of sailors to pursue excellence both in competition and in recreational sailing.
His contribution to sailing education, along with his professional achievements, position Christoforos Gkritzelakis as a leader in the sailing communities of Greece. He continues to share his vast knowledge and experience to elevate the sport and those who practice it.
PANAGIOTIS VAFIAS
Instructor of the Northern Aegean Sailing Club & ISSA’s Instructor
Panagiotis Vafias started sailing 25 years ago and has since dedicated his life to the development and promotion of the sport. He is a sailor, offshore sailing instructor, and official ORC/Int measurer for the Hellenic Sailing Federation (E.I.O). He is also a certified instructor by the ISSA.
With extensive experience in offshore sailing, Panagiotis has participated in many national offshore races with notable distinctions, covering more than 4,500 nautical miles. His continuous presence in races and his passion for the sport have established him as one of the most reliable and respected instructors in the field of sailing.
Panagiotis’ passion for sailing goes beyond the competitive aspect of the sport. Through his teaching, he seeks to promote athleticism, teamwork, and discipline, which are inseparable from sailing. He believes that sailing is not just a sport but a way of life that fosters respect for the sea and interaction with nature. As an instructor, he aims not only to develop his students’ technical skills but also to cultivate a deeper respect and love for the sport.
Fully dedicated to sailing, he devotes his time to passing on his experience and knowledge to new sailors, both beginners and advanced, with the aim of inspiring future generations of sailors
NIKOLAOS ZACHARIADIS
Nikolaos Zachariadis is a certified ISSA instructor with a strong passion for sailing and teaching. Through his work with the Northern Aegean Sailing Club, he has trained a wide range of students, from complete beginners to advanced sailors.
Known for his calm and clear teaching style, Nikolaos focuses on building solid foundations in navigation, seamanship, and safety. He believes in fostering both skill and respect for the sea, helping students gain confidence and independence on board.
Dedicated to sharing his knowledge, Nikolaos continues to inspire new sailors and contribute to the growth of the sailing community.
OUR TEAM IS HERE TO ASSIST YOU IN DESIGNING YOUR HOLIDAYS
64200 Κεραμωτή, Καβάλα
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info@northsailing.gr
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