Capt. Michalis Christodoulou from Skyros speaks to “Fair Winds and Following Seas” on Voice of Greece.
We caught up with him at work on the bridge of the M/V ACHILLEAS, the community-owned vessel that has served the Skyros-Kymi route for many years.
Capt. Michalis discusses the importance of the route to the island and its local community: “This effort began in 1981, and this is our third vessel. The first was the ANEMOESSA, followed by the LYKOMIDIS, and now the ACHILLEAS operates the route. All three names are connected with Skyros through mythology.”
“We connect Skyros with Kymi throughout the year. We also transport patients in medical emergencies, even in difficult weather conditions, as well as goods, vehicles, and up to 600 passengers.”
Offering advice to young people considering a life at sea, he says: “They must be prepared to give up a large part of life ashore. They need to make that decision and learn to love the sea. Of course, seafaring can also be a very rewarding profession.”