In Monaco, Sir Ernst has just completed a voyage like no other. Supported by YCM, the crew skippered by Club members François Miribel and Fabrice Papazian dropped anchor this Friday in the YCM Marina. It was an arrival that meant so much more than just returning to the quay. For the last few days a dozen young people in remission from cancer have been sharing the experience of day-to-day life at sea, alongside the ‘À Chacun Son Cap’ association: a simple trip on the map but one with profound implications.
From the moment they left Saint-Tropez something clicked. After the introductions and getting used to being on a sailing boat, they were soon eager to participate. From helming to hoisting sails and understanding how it all works, everyone found their own rhythm and place on board. YCM had made available four of its members boats, giving the youngsters an opportunity to enjoy a unique experience. Borne by a light easterly breeze, the fleet sailed along the coast, stopping off in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez before heading for Fréjus. In the days that followed the scenery kept changing from the Estérel, Iles de Lérins, Antibes and Sainte-Marguerite to Beaulieu-sur-Mer, the final stage before Monaco. The group arrived in the Principality this morning to a warm welcome by the Yacht Club de Monaco.
Every day was different as this fleet of four made its way along the coast, from tranquil sailing and beautiful anchorages to more demanding moments in unpredictable breezes. In between were lunches together, an impromptu swim, much laughter and a party that continued in a cockpit too small for everyone. Sir Ernst completed this voyage like no other in Monaco, one where the sailing, and above all the shared moments, will remain etched on their memories.
What you saw were the sails, scenery and manoeuvres. What you didn’t see were the discussions that arose unexpectedly, and the silences too. There was of course supervision and support, but with a different approach. Gradually roles evolved as the plucky new young members gained in confidence and started to participate and get involved. The entire crew then became a group enjoying the simple life at sea together.
In Monaco, they received a very warm welcome but that is not what stands out. For everyone it was all about the journey taken. For some it was their first time at sea. For others it was the first time they’d experienced something like it in a long time without medical constraints. With Sir Ernst, YCM is helping make dreams come true in enabling these young people to experience something completely different, and letting the sea take over their lives for a few days.
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