XIII Bonus Miles Flotilla Spring ’25:’Flotilla Sailing Lessons for beginners’

The flotilla sets sail from the port of Volos, in the heart of the Pagasetic Gulf, following the inner coastline of Evia. Initially, participants sail through the Northern Gulf of Evia, enjoying the tranquility and the stunning natural scenery surrounding the area. As we move south, the flotilla passes through the narrow passage of the Chalkida Bridge, an architectural marvel that connects Evia to mainland Greece. Here, participants will be impressed by the technical complexity and historical importance of the bridge.

Continuing into the Southern Gulf of Evia, our journey heads toward the Athenian Riviera, one of Greece’s most cosmopolitan coastal regions. As we sail further south, the imposing sight of the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion comes into view, perched on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea. This location is particularly known for its historical and religious significance, offering an unmatched view that blends antiquity with natural beauty.

The journey then continues with an exploration of the cosmopolitan islands of the Saronic Gulf, providing travelers the opportunity to discover islands rich in traditional architecture, charming alleys, and a vibrant cultural scene. Here, participants can enjoy authentic island hospitality and admire the local culture and cuisine.

One of the journey’s highlights is the passage through the Isthmus of Corinth, where the flotilla sails through the narrow and impressive Corinth Canal. The experience of navigating through this famous waterway, with its steep rocky cliffs rising on both sides, is a memorable moment of the trip. The canal, which connects the Saronic with the Corinthian Gulf, is one of Greece’s most iconic engineering achievements.

After passing through the canal, the flotilla continues through the Corinthian Gulf, heading towards the Rio-Antirrio Bridge, a modern architectural masterpiece that links mainland Greece with the Peloponnese. This stunning bridge, with its unique design, is another remarkable landmark along the route, offering participants a breathtaking view as they sail beneath it.

From there, the flotilla heads west towards the Ionian Islands, making stops at iconic locations rich in natural beauty and history. The first stop is Ithaca, the legendary island of Odysseus, filled with myths and historical references. Here, participants will have the opportunity to explore traditional villages and beautiful beaches, while the island’s atmosphere transports them back to the times of the Odyssey.

After Ithaca, the flotilla continues to Lefkada, one of the most beautiful islands in the Ionian Sea, known for its paradisiacal beaches and warm hospitality. Sailing past the bridge that connects Lefkada to mainland Greece marks the approach to the final destination.

The journey concludes in Preveza, a city rich in maritime tradition and history, known for its picturesque port and lively cultural scene. Preveza, with its seaside charm and historical landmarks, provides the perfect finale to this epic journey.

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

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.

*also there is an option to obtain both diplomas from N.A.S.C & ISSA.

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.

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

ISSA’s Instructor