Although both born among the mountains of Piedmont, northern Italy, Mariolina and Giorgio Ardrizzi developed a deep love for the sea that culminated in 1992 in the breaking of their social bonds and departing on a voyage across the Oceans of the world on their yacht Saudade III. Their decision was not an escape from civilization, but rather an odyssey in search of a more human temporal dimension in order to regain that most precious and rare of commodities: time. Different cultures and peoples attracted them more than scenic landscapes or beautiful places during their 12-year long voyage. Until now, their search has not been in vain.

Mariolina was born in Turin in 1958 and worked for 14 years for a large television company. From the mountains where she practiced various sports including speleology and high altitude alpine skiing, she descended to the sea to meet Giorgio. She loves nature and feels a visceral attachment to her mountains.

Giorgio, 3 years older, shares Mariolina's ideals and love for the mountains, trekking, and activities connected to nature. A graduate of the Music Conservatory, he played professionally with the lyric Orchestra at the Teatro Regio in Turin, for 16 years. Along with sailing, music remains his great passion, and he can often be found playing or listening to jazz.

Both are contributors to the Italian nautical magazine BOLINA providing technical and travel articles.