Sailing the Atlantic: Greg Berryman’s Epic Solo Voyage on SY Alegria II

Introduction: Setting Sail on an Epic Adventure

How far can a single sailor go, armed with only a dream, a sturdy yacht, and an unrelenting spirit?

For Greg Berryman, the answer lay across 4,000 miles of open Atlantic water.

Aboard the SY Alegria II, his trusted vessel, Greg embarked on a solo transatlantic crossing from Monaco to the lush British Virgin Islands (BVI).

This wasn’t just a navigational feat but a personal odyssey-a quest to test the limits of resilience, uncover the joys of solitude, and experience nature’s raw power. Along the way, there were moments of awe, trials that demanded every ounce of strength, and lessons that would leave an indelible mark. 

Join us as we recount the story of Greg’s incredible adventure. 

Preparing for the Journey: The Calm Before the Storm

Every great adventure starts with preparation, and Greg’s was no exception. Months before casting off, he meticulously planned every detail-provisioning supplies to last over a month, plotting potential routes through the Atlantic, and readying himself mentally for the profound solitude of solo sailing.

At the heart of this expedition was the SY Alegria II, a robust and reliable yacht built for endurance. Custom modifications included reinforced hulls and an upgraded autopilot system, critical for a solo voyage of this magnitude.

For Greg, every bolt tightened, and every knot perfected was another step closer to making his dream a reality. 

Choosing to Leave Monaco on Christmas Day

On Christmas morning, while most of Monaco celebrated with holiday cheer, Greg untied Alegria II and quietly set sail. The first leg was filled with mixed emotions-eagerness, trepidation, and a bit of melancholy as the South of France coast faded into the distance.

The Strait of Gibraltar marked his first challenge, with strong currents and busy shipping lanes keeping him on high alert. Beyond the strait, the Atlantic stretched open, vast and unpredictable, waiting for its next challenger. 

The Atlantic Crossing: Peaks and Troughs

The Peaks

Amidst the hardships of the Atlantic crossing, there were moments of pure magic. Greg recalls playful pods of dolphins leaping alongside Alegria II, turning vast days at sea into opportunities for laughter.

At night, the ocean transformed into a canvas lit by stars. "The Milky Way was so vivid," Greg shares, "it felt like sailing through space." These moments of celestial wonder created a sense of connection to the universe, a humbling reminder of the small yet significant role we play in it.

And finally, there was the first sight of the Caribbean-emerald-green hills rising from the horizon after 35 days at sea. “That moment,” Greg reflects, “felt like the culmination of something greater than just a voyage. It was an awakening.”

The Troughs

But not all moments were idyllic. Rough seas near the Canary Islands pummeled Alegria II, with 20-foot waves testing both boat and sailor. For days, Greg wrestled with the helm, muscles aching from the strain.

One of the toughest nights of the voyage came when the autopilot system broke down. Greg was forced to manually steer for 36 grueling hours, pushing his limits yet refusing to surrender. “There was no giving up,” he recalls. “It was just me, the tools I brought, and sheer willpower.”

The solitude, though romantic at first, sometimes weighed heavily. Days would pass without a single bird, ripple, or sign of life. Still, Greg persevered, finding unexpected strength in the quiet-a chance to confront his own fears and emerge more resilient. 

Arrival in the BVI: Triumph and Reflection

When Greg finally arrived in the BVI, sunburned but smiling, he was greeted by cheers from fellow sailors who had tracked his progress online. Dropping anchor in turquoise waters, he dove into the sea-a symbolic moment of release and triumph. 

“It wasn’t just about reaching the BVI,” Greg explained. “It was about how I got there-facing every challenge head-on and coming out the other side stronger and more self-aware.” 

Lessons Learned and Advice for Aspiring Solo Sailors

Greg’s solo crossing offers valuable insights for those dreaming of their own adventure across the seas.

Greg’s Key Takeaways

• Preparation is Everything: Double-check every system and bring spares of everything. Out there, you’re 100% self-reliant.
• Respect the Ocean: The sea is a powerful, unpredictable force. Always be ready to adapt and stay humble in its presence.
• Find Joy in the Small Moments: Whether it’s the dance of dolphins or a perfect sunset, the small joys make the struggle worthwhile.
• Stay Mentally Strong: Solitude can be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity for profound self-discovery. Keep your mind sharp and focused. 

Conclusion: A Journey That Transformed Me

Greg’s solo voyage aboard SY Alegria II was more than an incredible adventure; it was a personal transformation. He set sail as a sailor and arrived as someone who truly knew his own strength, resilience, and ability to conquer fear.

To adventure seekers, sailing enthusiasts, and dreamers alike, Greg offers these final words of encouragement: “Whatever your challenge, go for it. There’s no growth without risk, no reward without perseverance. Your own ‘Atlantic’ is out there waiting-go find it.”

The story of SY Alegria II and Greg Berryman serves as a testament to the beauty and power of chasing the unknown.

Who knows? Maybe their tale will inspire your next great adventure.