Today I’m delighted to be talking with Katrien, who shares the remarkable story of how a childhood dream of sailing grew into a career as an RYA Instructor.
After an early experience on the water left her lacking confidence, Katrien stepped away from boating for many years. But one sailing course changed everything. What followed was a journey of determination, self-belief and finding the people who encouraged her to keep going.
In this episode we talk about:
* discovering a passion for sailing later in life
* overcoming fear and self-doubt
* progressing from Competent Crew to Instructor
* buying a first boat and learning through experience
* why confidence comes from supportive people, not perfection
* the value of women supporting women in sailing
* finding your place within the sailing community
Katrien’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to follow a dream. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re capable of becoming a skipper, instructor or boat owner, this conversation is full of encouragement and inspiration. Before becoming a professional sailing instructor, Katrien spent 25 years raising her three children and worked as a coach and ceramic artist. Throughout her life, she has been fascinated by personal growth, creativity and the courage it takes to follow one’s own path.
The sea brought these passions together. For Katrien, sailing is about much more than learning how to handle a boat. It is about building confidence, learning to trust yourself, making decisions and growing through experience.
Katrien is now an RYA Cruising Instructor who offers private sailing tuition aboard her yacht Butterfly - Etap 39s - in Southern Spain.
She specialises in teaching beginners through private tuition for individuals, couples, friends and all-women crews. With a maximum of three students on board, every course is tailored to the individual in a supportive, safe and enjoyable learning environment.
Katrien believes that we are all responsible for steering our own course in life, and that growth begins the moment we dare to take the helm.
📸 Instagram: @sailwithkatrien
📱 WhatsApp: https://wa.me/32487624446
About SheHelms Sailing
I’m JoJo Pickering, a professional freelance skipper, RYA Yachtmaster Instructor and founder of SheHelms Sailing.
SheHelms is a free, women-only sailing community bringing women together to build skills, confidence and connections on the water. Through the podcast, monthly Zooms, Book Club, learning resources and our online community, we share practical knowledge, inspiring stories and honest conversations about sailing and life at sea.
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