Episode 7: The Journey
- Valérie Bauwens
- Sep 7, 2025
- 2 min read
1925: A two-month trip
The voyage of the four young women marked another groundbreaking moment — an all-female crew setting sail.
Ella Maillart wrote:
"At 22, my greatest dream had come true: we were four girls on a sailboat heading for Greece. And nothing will ever match that first taste of the wonders of discovery!"
They departed from Marseille on July 7, with plans to arrive in Athens two months later. Along the way, they made several stops: Porquerolles, to get used to the sea, then on July 11, they set off for Corsica. They reached Ajaccio on July 14, and Bonifacio on July 15, where they paused to rest.
On July 18, they headed for Sardinia, choosing the eastern route via the Maddalena archipelago, where they crossed paths with both Italian and British naval ships.
From July 24, they sailed along the Sardinian coast, arriving in Cagliari on July 28.
That night, they began the crossing to Sicily — and were caught in a massive storm.
But on July 31, victory: Marettimo Island came into view. Despite having no compass, they triumphantly reached Palermo by midday, riding a tailwind.
Carinne Bertola
2025: A Two-Part adventure
After many twists and turns, we — modern women with busy lives — have decided to revive the legendary Mediterranean voyage of the 5 filles. But this time, it will unfold in two acts:
2025: Marseille → Palermo
2026: Palermo → Athens
Balancing our professional, family, and social lives was no small puzzle. Two weeks — no more — to preserve harmony between clients, employers, and loved ones. We’re no longer twenty, and we don’t have the carefree freedom that came with it… but our thirst for adventure and freedom is as strong as ever!
All eyes on September 21st!
Two weeks of sailing along the Corsican and Sardinian coasts, heading toward vibrant Sicily. We’re ready to write a new chapter in our all-female odyssey.
Valérie Bauwens
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