Tell me, Mathilde ...
... How do you become a sailing influencer?
I wanted to make transparent what it means to own a boat as a newcomer. All the surprises, all the ups and downs that come with it. When I started blogging about it, I quickly realised that people were really interested and could relate to the descriptions of my setbacks.
What were these setbacks?
Among other things, a broken mast, water and diesel in the boat, the rudder blade was leaking, there were lots of engine problems, and I crushed my arm between two boats.
Nevertheless, you come across as very cheerful. How do you manage that?
With a lot of gallows humour. For example, when the mast broke during a trip with friends, it wasn't funny at all. However, as soon as we realised that we had the situation under control, we were soon able to laugh about it again. I don't know whether this coping mechanism is a particularly Danish phenomenon or whether it's just my friends and I who are like that.
In view of this and all the other mishaps: Don't you have to label your Instagram posts about this as an advert for yacht insurance?
Good idea! But seriously, I think a lot about what I could do differently to avoid making mistakes. My main concern is to share this with other people. To make it clear that you have to take safety seriously. I wouldn't say I'll never make another mistake now, but I've definitely learnt a lot.
Which is actually more work, refitting your "Freja" or writing about it?
Both are equally busy, but at different times of the year. When it's too cold to work on the boat in winter, I mainly focus on creating Instagram posts. As soon as it gets warmer, it's the other way round.
Some people struggle with the lightness that often comes with social media. Do you have any tips?
Above all, you need to be authentic and reveal a little bit about yourself, but not necessarily everything from your private life. The best thing about social media is that you have a community of followers who are sailing along virtually. You have to get involved in this community. Then you suddenly meet people in a marina who know you - and who will help you immediately if you have a problem.
Are there also followers who are annoying?
Mainly when people ask questions that I've heard a hundred times before. Or when they ask about things that you can already read about on my website. Otherwise, don't let yourself be provoked by any questions.
When the refit is complete, what will you be blogging about?What are your cruise plans?
First of all, I want to take "Freja" across the canals to the Mediterranean. And then at some point round the world. Preferably for several years. But certainly not with such a small boat. Then I'd like to have one that I can at least stand upright in.
