Classic Yachtsman

Fresh tales from the helm, every Friday.

  • Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter: A Historical Walk

    By Alex Harrington The vibrant cityscape hinted at the adventures awaiting us as The Albatross docked in Barcelona’s bustling port. But our destination was not the sunlit beaches or the bustling markets; we were drawn to the shadowy heart of the city—the Gothic Quarter, a labyrinth of narrow alleys and ancient buildings steeped in history…

  • Provence from the Port: Lavender and Culture

    By Alex Harrington The allure of Provence, with its endless fields of lavender, sun-drenched vineyards, and storied artistic heritage, has long captured the hearts of travelers. As The Albatross sailed into the picturesque port of Cassis, the anticipation of exploring this enchanting region from its coastal towns filled the crew with excitement. Our journey into…

  • Monaco’s Hidden Side: A Day in Monte Carlo from a Local’s Perspective

    By Alex Harrington Monaco is often associated with glitz and glamour, but beyond the shimmering facade lies a side of Monte Carlo that few visitors see. Having spent considerable time in this captivating city, I decided to take my crew on a personal tour, showcasing the lesser-known aspects of Monte Carlo. From private gardens and…

  • The Glitz of Monaco: A Sailor’s Perspective

    By Alex Harrington As The Albatross sailed gracefully into the Port Hercules marina, the grandeur of Monaco unfolded before us. Nestled on the French Riviera, this tiny principality is renowned for its opulence, glamour, and breathtaking beauty. For a sailor, Monaco represents a different kind of adventure—one where the call of the sea meets the…

  • Cinque Terre by Sea: Colorful Villages and Vineyards

    By Alex Harrington As The Albatross approached the rugged coastline of Italy’s Cinque Terre, I felt a flutter of excitement that had nothing to do with the breathtaking landscape unfurling before us. This stretch of coastline, with its five iconic villages clinging to steep cliffs, promised stunning scenery, culinary delights, and the potential for new…

  • Under the Tuscan Sun: Coastal Villages

    By Alex Harrington After a thrilling sail from the rugged coast of Corsica, The Albatross found herself gently rocking in the azure waters off the Tuscan coast. Tuscany’s allure is legendary, but the coastal villages, each a gem in its own right, promised a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and craftsmanship that we eagerly anticipated…

Why I Started This Blog…

I’ve spent a lifetime sailing the high seas, exploring the unknown, and seeking adventures that most people only dream of. Through all the adventures, the dangers, and the moments of breathtaking beauty, I’ve often found myself yearning to share my experiences. You see, the sea has a way of imprinting its tales upon your soul, which are too wondrous and epic to keep to oneself. That’s why I’ve started this blog—to share my journey, not just with my close-knit crew, but with anyone who dreams of adventure.

My journey hasn’t been without its challenges. As some of you might know, I’ve experienced my share of setbacks. My wealth, once abundant, has dwindled, and my family, once close, has become estranged. But amidst all this, I’ve realized that what matters most isn’t what you have but the stories you collect along the way. This blog is my way of preserving those stories and inviting you, my fellow adventurers, to join me on this journey.

Now, you might wonder why this blog doesn’t have any pictures. After all, what’s a tale of adventure without vivid images to bring it to life? It all comes down to a little quirk of mine. You see, during one of my journeys, I came across a mysterious island inhabited by an ancient tribe. The tribe’s wise elder shared with me a secret: the soul of an adventure lies not in the images captured but in the imagination of those who hear the tale. Ever since that encounter, I’ve cherished the idea of painting pictures with words, leaving the rest to your imagination. It might seem odd in today’s world of instant snapshots, but I’ve found that the most vibrant images are the ones you create in your own mind.

So, my friends, I invite you to let your imagination run wild as you read these stories. Picture the azure waters, the hidden coves, and the thrilling escapades as you see fit. And always remember, adventure is not about what you can capture but about what you can envision.

— Alex Harrington