Eighteen men, three boats and one amazing Greek adventure
A group of 18 members of Rostrevor Men’s Shed recently embarked on an unforgettable sailing adventure through the Greek islands, proving that friendship, teamwork and a spirit of adventure know no age limit.
Setting sail aboard three yachts for what became ‘Our Greek Odyssey’, the group traded familiar shores for the sparkling waters of Greece, exploring picturesque harbours, hidden coves, traditional villages, and lively waterfront tavernas along the way.
Leading the flotilla were three experienced skippers - Michael Cunningham, Aidan McKay, and Stuart LeCornu - whose knowledge and seamanship helped guide the voyage safely through Greek waters.
Joining them was a crew made up entirely of Rostrevor Men’s Shed members, bringing together a wide mix of sailing experience.
Some were seasoned sailors, while others were complete novices experiencing life under sail for the very first time.
That blend of experience quickly became one of the defining strengths of the trip.
Gethin Hughes, PR Officer for Rostrevor Men’s Shed, said: “This was much more than a holiday - it was a genuine shared adventure.
“We had a wonderful mix of experienced sailors and complete novices, but very quickly everyone found their place as part of the crew.
“Life at sea has a way of bringing people together because teamwork becomes essential. Whether handling sails, navigating, cooking onboard, or simply supporting one another, everyone had a role to play.”
Life onboard quickly found its rhythm. Each day began with route planning, weather checks, preparing the yachts, and setting course for the next destination.
With 18 men spread across three boats, teamwork was essential throughout the day. From handling sails and mooring lines to navigation, anchoring, provisioning, cooking, and keeping life onboard running smoothly, everyone had a role to play.
Cooking in compact onboard galleys brought plenty of camaraderie and creativity, while evenings often meant gathering ashore to enjoy Greek hospitality, fresh seafood, local cuisine, and time to reflect on the day’s sailing.
The flotilla visited some of Greece’s most beautiful destinations, including Poros, Hydra, and Spetses, each offering its own distinctive charm - from bustling harbours and elegant waterfront promenades to peaceful anchorages and crystal-clear waters.
There were exhilarating passages under sail, peaceful mornings at anchor, spectacular sunsets, swims in warm Mediterranean waters, and plenty of laughter shared between crewmates.
Naturally, every genuine sailing adventure brings its challenges, but these only added to the experience and strengthened the teamwork that developed among the group.
The lasting memories will be the friendships, camaraderie and shared sense of achievement. Gethin reflected: “Rostrevor Men’s Shed is about friendship, support and shared experiences.
“Eighteen men, three boats, and one unforgettable odyssey.”