Meet our team: Beth Soldevila, Charter Broker

We continue to get you closer to the members of the TSCH team of nautical advisors and if you read this short interview you will have the opportunity to meet her.

1. When and how was your first experience in the world of sailing?

My first sailing experience was when I was 13 years old, at the Estartit Sailing Club, in Girona (Catalonia, Spain). From there, I earned the title of Sailing Instructor and I was sailing and racing every summer until I was 16.

2. Finish the sentence: NAVIGATION FOR ME IS...

Symbol of freedom, of letting go of everything to unite with nature.

3. If you had your own boat, what would you call it and why?

I would call it "Mind", mentality in English, also referring to the spirit. Because that is what the sea and navigation represent to me. That free and open-minded spirit.

4. Which trip have you enjoyed the most and why?

In Croatia, where I did a “Fam Trip” invited by a shipowner, to visit the area and sail on a schooner. It was a great experience! I was able to see how the schooner service worked and get to know that destination well. The best thing I took away from that trip was the Crew, who welcomed me like one of their family. Exceptional treatment and lots of laughs!

5. What is your favorite moment or time during each trip?

The best moment is navigation. Feel how the boat moves with the waves, the wind and play with it. The unique sensation of surfing waves is incredible!

6. Can you tell us about any big scare you've had while sailing?

In Croatia, with the schooner. We were anchored and the anchor got stuck on a rock, while trying to get out the windlass broke and we couldn't because it got stuck. It was a moment of great stress because we were hitting the rocks. What we did was push the schooner with the auxiliary boat so that it would not crash and, finally, after much effort, we broke the anchor chain to be able to get out.

7. And any anecdote that you remember and want to share?

In Greece, during a trip that the entire TSCH team took. We were anchored in a cove and with the auxiliary boat we went around to go down to the beach for a walk. When we returned to the catamaran, everyone went on deck except me, who was holding the auxiliary boat. And, before I realized it, I was alone in the dinghy drifting... No one had grabbed the rope to hold the auxiliary boat! I tried to start the engine so I could get back to the catamaran but I couldn't and there was more and more distance between the catamaran and me. From a distance, I was already seeing Sergi take off his shirt to jump into the water and come to the rescue but, luckily, I was able to start the engine and come back... False alarm!

8. What is the most important learning you have learned from your entire experience at sea?

That staying calm is very important in stressful situations. Also that there is nothing defined in the sea. You have to adapt to changes at all times but, yes, always enjoying it.

9. What destination do you plan to go to next?

At the moment, I don't have anything planned but I would like my next destination to be Türkiye.

10. Finally, any advice to give to someone who has never sailed?

Don't have fear or expectations. For each person the sailing experience is completely different and, although it may give respect, there is no danger. I would also advise you to choose a quiet destination to start, do short sailings and in areas with little wind. With navigation, it is always better to go from less to more.