
Sail aboard Joshua, Bernard Moitessier’s legendary ketch, in this vivid memoir of a young sailor’s Mediterranean adventure. A tribute to seafaring, humor, and the magic of the 1960s.
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Step aboard the Joshua, the iconic ketch of Bernard Moitessier, one of the greatest sailing legends of all time. Girolata, Sailing with Moitessier is not just a book—it’s an invitation to relive the golden age of sailing through the eyes of a young adventurer. At just 18 years old, Thierry Dalberto, freshly graduated and trained as a sea scout, embarks on a life-changing journey as a hitchhiker at sea. His destination? The Joshua, anchored in Girolata, Corsica, where he joins Moitessier for an unforgettable cruise across the Mediterranean. This vivid, touching, and often humorous account captures the essence of a bygone era, where the sea was a classroom and every wave held a lesson.
The Joshua is not just a vessel; it’s a symbol of freedom, adventure, and the spirit of exploration. Designed by Moitessier himself, this steel ketch became the stage for some of the most extraordinary sailing feats in history. In this book, Dalberto recounts his firsthand experience aboard the Joshua during its maiden voyage, navigating the rugged coasts of Corsica, the sun-drenched Balearic Islands, the historic waters of Naples, and the wild beauty of Sardinia. Through his eyes, readers discover the challenges, the camaraderie, and the sheer joy of sailing a boat that would later become a legend in its own right.
For Dalberto, this voyage was more than a trip—it was a rite of passage. Under Moitessier’s mentorship, he learned the art of sailing in its purest form: navigating by the stars, reading the winds, and understanding the sea’s moods. The book is filled with anecdotes that bring to life the daily routines, the unexpected challenges, and the small victories that define life at sea. Whether it’s the thrill of catching the wind in the sails or the quiet moments of reflection under a starlit sky, every page immerses the reader in an experience that is as educational as it is exhilarating.
Prefaced by Jean-Michel Barrault, a renowned figure in the sailing world, Girolata, Sailing with Moitessier is a love letter to the 1960s, a time when sailing was less about technology and more about intuition, courage, and connection with nature. The book’s charm lies in its authenticity—Dalberto’s writing is unfiltered, filled with the wonder of a young man discovering the world and the wisdom of a mentor who had already made history. It’s a story that resonates with sailors and dreamers alike, offering a glimpse into a world where the sea was both a teacher and a companion.
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor, an armchair adventurer, or simply someone who appreciates a well-told story, this book has something for you. It’s a celebration of the sea, a tribute to one of sailing’s greatest icons, and a reminder of the transformative power of adventure. With its engaging narrative, rich descriptions, and heartfelt moments, Girolata, Sailing with Moitessier is more than just a memoir—it’s an experience that will inspire you to set sail, even if only in your imagination.
A Voyage Back in Time Aboard the Joshua
Dive into the pages of Girolata, Sailing with Moitessier, a captivating memoir that transports you to the heart of the Mediterranean in the 1960s. This book is not just a story—it’s a firsthand account of an 18-year-old’s extraordinary journey aboard the legendary ketch Joshua, under the guidance of Bernard Moitessier, one of the most iconic figures in sailing history. Written by Thierry Dalberto, this narrative is a blend of adventure, humor, and emotion, offering readers a unique perspective on the golden age of sailing.
From Girolata to the High Seas
The journey begins in Girolata, a picturesque village in Corsica, where Dalberto, a freshly graduated sea scout, embarks on the Joshua for its maiden voyage. Over the course of this unforgettable cruise, the boat sails through some of the Mediterranean’s most stunning destinations: the rugged coasts of Corsica, the sun-kissed Balearic Islands, the historic waters of Naples, and the wild beauty of Sardinia. Each leg of the journey is filled with lessons, challenges, and moments of pure joy, as Dalberto learns the art of sailing from Moitessier himself.
A Story of Mentorship and Discovery
At its core, this book is a story of mentorship. Moitessier, already a sailing legend, takes Dalberto under his wing, teaching him the intricacies of navigation, the importance of reading the sea, and the philosophy of sailing. The narrative is rich with details about life aboard the Joshua—from the daily routines to the unexpected challenges that arise when you’re at the mercy of the elements. Dalberto’s writing is vivid and engaging, making it easy for readers to imagine themselves on deck, feeling the wind in their hair and the salt on their skin.
A Nostalgic Glimpse into the 1960s
Prefaced by Jean-Michel Barrault, a respected voice in the sailing community, Girolata, Sailing with Moitessier captures the essence of a bygone era. The 1960s were a time when sailing was less about technology and more about intuition, courage, and a deep connection with nature. This book is a celebration of that spirit, offering a nostalgic look at a world where the sea was both a teacher and a companion. Whether you’re a sailor or simply a lover of great stories, this memoir is sure to captivate and inspire.
This paperback edition of Girolata, Sailing with Moitessier is a beautifully crafted book, designed to be as enjoyable to hold as it is to read. With 194 pages of engaging narrative, it offers a deep dive into the world of sailing and adventure. The book measures 15.00 x 21.90 x 1.40 cm and weighs just 272 grams, making it the perfect size for reading on the go or adding to your collection of sailing literature. Published in May 2015, this edition is a must-have for anyone who loves the sea, history, or a well-told story.
With a reputation for publishing high-quality books on maritime history, sailing adventures, and nautical culture, this publisher has become a trusted name among sailors, historians, and enthusiasts alike. Their catalog includes works that celebrate the sea in all its forms, from technical manuals to memoirs and historical accounts. Each book is crafted with care, ensuring that readers receive not just a story, but an experience that resonates with the spirit of adventure and exploration.
The book contains 194 pages.
The dimensions are 15.00 x 21.90 x 1.40 cm.
The book weighs 272 grams.
The preface is written by Jean-Michel Barrault.
The book is in paperback format.
The book is written in French.
The journey covers Corsica, the Balearic Islands, Naples, and Sardinia.
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