The History of the Boat
A Living Piece of Greek Maritime Heritage
Our boat carries a rich history that dates back to 1944 when it began being built in Thessaloniki, next to the Chomata shipyard, by Skiathian shipwrights. The keel was placed that year, and the construction was completed in 1948, amidst the Greek Civil War.
The boat was named Agia Paraskevi, but those who knew it called it “Paraskevoula.” Initially, it operated as a trawler, with a Axylo engine, a floco, and a mainsail, while the rear part was of the “liana” type.
Changes, Trials & Revival
In 1984, Takis, the man who founded our company and father of today’s captain, Vangelis Doliannis, acquired the boat in Nea Michaniona. Its condition back then was very poor – almost impossible to maintain. Despite financial difficulties, with great effort and heavy investments, the boat began its revival.
A touching moment from this period occurred when an elderly woman appeared at the dock, wearing a headscarf. She gave 10,000 drachmas from her husband’s memorial, saying that Takis kept alive the boat that her husband had built.
In 1997, the boat traveled to Syros, where it was used for routes to Gyaros for hunting. In the following years, it sailed to Delos, Mykonos, and other islands, connecting the past with the present through its voyages and stories.
On November 17, 1984, the previous owners returned, demanding to take the boat back. The reason was the passing of a law for the destruction of fishing boats, and the value of the boat had skyrocketed: it had been purchased for 600,000 drachmas, but they offered 10,000,000 drachmas to get it back.
However, the boat had already found its new home. Stelios Karavasilakis, a shipwright from Imbros, took over its maintenance, while Takis, along with his family, moved it to Fanari, where the shipyard that still maintains it was opened.
Recently, a grandson of the original owner came and asked to buy it, wanting to bring it back to his family. However, the boat remains steadfast in its new mission: to travel, keep its history alive, and continue to offer unique experiences at sea.
Our boat is not just a traditional wooden vessel. It is a living witness of Greek maritime history, having survived wars, financial crises, and changes in ownership.
Every journey we make with it is a continuation of its heritage, a piece of living history that we share with everyone who chooses to sail with us.
Welcome aboard our boat. Welcome to its history.
