Want to try living on a sail boat for a week?

Matt & Terrie Holbrook

"We had been researching catamaran trips for months. That’s when we found The Awesome Factory.

From the very beginning, Erik came across as competent, trustworthy, and genuine. Our captain felt more like a friend than a tour operator. Erik brought positivity, high energy, and a real gift for teaching, always explaining what was happening, what to expect next, and helping everyone feel comfortable and engaged.

By the end of the trip, we knew this wouldn’t be our last adventure with Erik. In fact, we’ve already decided to sail with him again, this time in Greece. Thank you for an incredible experience and for giving us memories we’ll carry with us for years."

Kyle Barnes & Family

"It was truly an incredible experience from start to finish.

This was a family experience that will last a lifetime! We were initially nervous about traveling with our young children and being on the boat, but from day one he made our entire family feel completely safe, comfortable, and relaxed. He was exceptionally patient, calm, and thoughtful with our kids — engaging them in the sailing experience, explaining things in a way they could understand, and always keeping safety front and center. Because of him, our children felt confident and excited rather than nervous, which made the trip so special for all of us.

A big part of this trip for us was learning the boat and lifestyle as much as possible. Erik was phenomenal at teaching the skills necessary and allowing us to be as hands-on as much as we desired. We simply could not have had a better experience. This trip exceeded all of our expectations and created memories we’ll cherish forever! Don't hesitate to book with the awesome factory and experience this amazing adventure yourself!"

Yogi Patel

"We had the best time of our life, unbelievable beaches and sailing experiences."

Ken Dollinger

"This was the (final) trip of a lifetime, to celebrate my 80th birthday. I ended the week exhausted but tremendously happy with a wealth of memories, experiences, and new friends. Erik and Emily were perfect hosts, helping everyone to learn and do as much as they wished. (I already sail, but wanted to "up" my skills with a big boat and catamaran.)

This is absolutely the best hands-on experience I can imagine!! We fixed meals, played in water, hoisted anchor, sailed, dropped anchor, and had evening fun (conversations, games, songs, reading) before good night's rest--day after day after day. The week was both slow and went fast."

Jessica Glenn

"This sailing trip was truly an unforgettable experience from start to finish.

The food was delicious, the scenery absolutely breathtaking, and the access to private beaches made it feel like a dream escape. I loved being able to swim and snorkel in such beautiful, clear waters, and the boat itself was modern, high-quality, and extremely comfortable. One of the most rewarding parts of the trip was how much I learned about sailing.

Captain Erik is an amazing person—patient, encouraging, and genuinely passionate. He gave me the confidence to take on sailing tasks I never would have tried before, and I left feeling proud of myself for stepping outside my comfort zone. Beyond the adventure, I also made some wonderful new friends, which made the experience even more special. This trip was unlike anything I’ve ever done, and I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a unique, relaxing, and empowering getaway."

Laurie Mandell

"The Awesome Factory is like a camp to recharge the child inside your adult body. Erik was patient and an amazing teacher. Emily provided a safe & loving vibe. Learning to sail was exhilarating as you watched every color of blue follow you in the ocean, along with white sandy shores. Every evening we sang, danced, played games, and fell into a sound slumber as the boat rocked you to sleep."

Chuck & Becky Geary

"This was a great experience for us. We wanted to explore sailing, and this was the best start ever! We met great people, and Erik Orton was a fantastic teacher. We highly recommend the Awesome Factory sailing adventure!"

Paul & Jeanette Karasick

"Trip of a lifetime. Turquoise water filled with colorful fish and coral, steady trade winds to fill your sails, soft white coral sands under foot, warm star filled nights. What makes this particular trip so special is sharing it with a group of new friends all working together.

Captain Erik is passionate about teaching about sailing and all that it entails. I came away with confidence and knowledge about running a boat of this size and complexity, as well as new friends that I hope to sail with again.

While there are many options for charters where you will be catered to more, no other experience will bond a group the way that Erik runs his adventures. Taking the helm, raising and trimming sails, anchoring, taking off in the dinghy to explore on your own, cooking a meal for the group, all set this company apart. You can get out of it what you want.

Erik loves what he does, and it shows. He shares of himself, which encourages the group to do as well. I strongly advise you to take the plunge. You will not regret it!"

Tracey Kerstetter

"My time with The Awesome Factory and Erik Orton in Greece was truly one of a kind. From the moment we arrived, it was clear this wasn’t just a trip—it was an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect in ways I never expected.

Erik has a unique way of guiding his guests through uncharted waters, both literally and figuratively. He encourages everyone to approach sailing on their own terms, and maybe even step out of their comfort zones, develop new skills, and embrace challenges together.

The experience quickly transforms a group of strangers into a supportive, motivated team. We found ourselves assisting, uplifting, and inspiring each other every day, building genuine connections and lasting friendships along the way."