Inside Seafarer Crew Training 2025: A New Season Begins

Written by Olia Tsopela-George
Digital Marketing Executive at Seafarer

There’s something magical about being part of a beginning. This April, I had the privilege of experiencing an incredibly inspiring start to Seafarer’s season. Seafarer Crew Training 2025 unfolded in our beloved base of Korfos, Greece.

Although it was my first time attending the training, any initial nerves faded quickly, surrounded by such a warm-hearted team. I found myself learning and laughing, truly feeling part of the Seafarer spirit.

At Seafarer crew training, the energy was palpable from the start. Over five lively and memorable days, 25 crew members gathered to prepare for their sailing adventures ahead. Overall, the atmosphere was a perfect mix of professionalism, excitement, and a relaxed, friendly vibe.

It wasn’t just any training — we also celebrated Seafarer’s 30th anniversary. Back in April 1995, our Managing Director Chris Lorenzo and his wife launched the first Seafarer cabin charter. They set sail in the Cyclades with six adventurous guests.

Marking the occasion with a mini flotilla was the perfect tribute. We stood there, thirty years later, alongside a new generation of Seafarer, bringing fresh energy and experience together.

Seafarer crew training wasn’t about teaching people how to sail, they were already skilled mariners. Instead, this was about learning the Seafarer way: how to turn a great sailing trip into a truly memorable journey.

The programme was led by Product Manager John Connolly and Seafarer’s Country Manager for Greece, Giannis Patsamanis. It focused on day-to-day flotilla operations, guest care, safety, first aid with Dr. Evangelia Zarogianni, and local knowledge. Importantly, it also covered the art of seamless teamwork between skipper and first mate.

At Seafarer crew training, we held daily morning briefings and revisited first aid protocols, Additionally, we practiced technical skills like raft building and flotilla maneuvers. Across two full days on the water, we sailed to nearby destinations to put these skills into practice.

Despite cooler-than-usual weather and light winds, the spirit never faltered. We watched them raft up boats and host lively punch parties. And yes, we enjoyed every bite. Shoutout to Aspa’s delicious “spetsofai” — you’ll find her sailing in the Sporades with Tim.

In the end, it was the kind of week you don’t forget: good people, many laughs, and lots of learning.

What stood out the most to me in Seafarer crew training were the little moments. Those are the moments that made this week more than just training.

The group brings an incredible mix of backgrounds — engineers, physicists, scientists — all experienced sailors united by a passion for the sea. Conversations ranged from navigation techniques to philosophical debates over Greek food. Even two local dogs even “joined” the training, happily accepted into the fold.

One of the highlights was our tug of war game, where the crew’s competitive spirit shone. Lauren, our Lefkas flotilla skipper, showed fierce competitiveness and infectious enthusiasm. Even so, Giles, our Lefkas Area Manager, and Dennis, skipper of our cabin charter in the Cyclades, ended up winning.

At Seafarer crew training, there was something beautiful about seeing intelligent, kind-hearted people mixing jokes with advice and mooring practice. Or simply soaking up the cool breeze as we sailed near Epidavros. I also found it inspiring how many had traded office careers for the freedom of life on the water.

All week at Seafarer crew training, I saw everyone getting ready to do far more than just sail. They were preparing to welcome people, solve problems, and work together on the water. It showed in the first aid drills, the local tips they shared, and the way they supported each other too. Guests this year are in good hands, with a crew who knows their craft and enjoys doing it.

If I had to sum up Seafarer crew training, I’d say: it was informative, professional, and most of all, human. We celebrated 30 years with cake and laughter, and forged friendships that will carry through the season. It’s the kind of experience that reminds you why the people matter most.

Nothing feels as soothing as breathing in the fresh, salty air. You couldn’t get stressed if you tried. There’s something uniquely freeing about being on the water — maybe because life is water.

I’m not a sailor, but I grew up by the sea, and whenever I’m far from it, something feels off. Looking out to the horizon feels like coming home. It reminds me that everything will be okay.

Seeing Seafarer out on the water, not just from behind a screen, made it all make sense. This is the kind of life you don’t stumble into. You have to want to be here.

After Seafarer Crew Training, our skippers are ready to sail. Are you? Adventure is just over the horizon — and we can’t wait to share it with you.