We are Eric and Tracy Roelofsen, a South African couple with a passion for adventure, exploration, and stepping outside our comfort zones.

Our story began in the fast-paced world of the motor and restaurant industries. Our paths crossed in Durban, when we became a couple on September 11, 2001—a date forever marked in history. Life moved quickly as we built a blended family, raising three wonderful children: Michael, Connor and Makyla.

Career opportunities led us to Stockholm, Sweden, in 2005, where Eric took a Managing Director role in the automotive industry. Two years later, during the financial crisis, we made the bold decision—to buy and run the business ourselves. Over time, we grew it into a successful multi-branded dealership group with 10 dealerships across Sweden.

By 2014, with our children heading to boarding school in South Africa, we found ourselves drawn back to our roots. A spontaneous discovery of a breathtaking property filled with wildlife, which led to the creation of Intle Boutique Hotel, a place that embodies the beauty of Africa.

Many people ask us what the word "Intle" means. The meaning of the word Intle, a Xhosa word (pronouced een-tleh), means "beautiful", "amazing", "lovely", "handsome" depending on the context you use the word in, for example "Le ndawo intle!" - This place is beautiful. We believed this word captured exactly what the property was, beautiful and amazing. While we still own the hotel, its day-to-day operations are now managed by Authentic Retreats.

We have taken the word "Intle" to our boat name as well, a word that captures the beauty of the ocean, the thrill of adventure, and the stories we gather along the way. Our sailing journey is more than just travel, it's about discovering the beauty in every place, every wave, and every moment. The road less travelled.

In 2023, after years of running high-paced businesses, it was time for a new chapter. With our children now grown and flying the nest, we decided to step away from the corporate world and sold our Swedish dealership group to embrace a full-time life of adventure at sea.

The only catch, we had never sailed before.

This website is our way of sharing our journey, and ensuring that we have a documented memoir for our children and future generations. We will share with you the highs, the lows, and the incredible places we discover along the way. We invite you to sail with us, whether in spirit or in person, as we navigate this exciting new chapter of our lives.

Welcome aboard!