Crossing the Bay of Biscay

De boegspriet van de Morgenster
Departure
17 May 2026 17:00
Return
25 May 2026 10:00
Days
9
Sailing area
North Sea, South Europe
Port of departure
Pasai (ES)
Port of arrival
Shoreham-by-Sea (UK)

From Spain to England

Step aboard in the Basque Country and sail across the Bay of Biscay on an unforgettable 9-day adventure aboard the tall ship Morgenster. From Pasaia to Shoreham-by-Sea, this voyage combines the thrill of a real sea journey with the simple pleasures of life under sail: wind, waves, and the company of fellow adventurers.

Sailing across the Bay of Biscay

This journey is for anyone who loves the open sea. From the sheltered harbour of Pasaia, we set a northward course across the Bay of Biscay, one of Europe’s most famous waters. Depending on wind and weather, we may make a short stop along the way—or reach the English coast in one powerful crossing.

For centuries, sailors have braved this route and inspired legends. Now it’s your turn to feel the heartbeat of the ocean: take the helm, raise the sails, and experience the timeless rhythm of the waves.

No sailing experience? No problem. . The friendly crew of Morgenster will show you all the tricks of the trade—quite literally. You can help with the watches, handle the sails, or simply relax on deck and enjoy life aboard a living, working sailing ship.

Life aboard the Morgenster

Each day at sea brings something new: fresh winds, stunning sunsets, shared laughter at the table, and the gentle creaking of the rigging at night. The Morgenster is more than a ship; she is a floating community. You become part of a crew from all over the world, united by a shared love of adventure.

As we approach the English coast, you feel the satisfaction of a completed passage. It’s more than a journey from A to B; it’s an experience that connects you with the ocean and the rich history of sailing.

Our destination, Shoreham-by-Sea, welcomes us with its historic harbour and the feeling of setting foot on land again. You step ashore with sea legs, new friends, and a head full of stories to tell.

Why this voyage?

Because this is real sailing: authentic, adventurous, and full of heart. The tall ship Morgenster offers a unique opportunity to cross one of Europe’s classic sailing routes on a traditional square-rigged ship, guided by an experienced and welcoming crew.

You discover what sailors have always known: that the journey is more important than the destination, and that every wave brings a new sense of wonder.

Book early – places are limited.

If the idea of a sailing crossing of the Bay of Biscay stirs something in you, don’t wait any longer. Seize the moment and step aboard.

Adventure, discovery, and a touch of maritime magic await between Pasaia and Shoreham.

Your Role Aboard the Morgenster

Sailing on a square-rigged tall ship like the Morgenster is a unique experience — perfect for both seasoned sailors and curious newcomers alike.

Aboard the Morgenster, you’re not just a passenger — you’re truly part of the crew. From hoisting the sails to plotting the ship’s position at sea, you’ll become an active participant in life on board. The experienced crew will gladly guide you, offering the unique opportunity to learn and experience every aspect of traditional seamanship. Tasks are tailored to your interests and abilities, ensuring there’s a role for everyone.

Up for a challenge? You can even climb the masts! Conquer your fear of heights and enjoy the breathtaking view from the yards, with the proud realization that you’ve experienced one of the most thrilling parts of life at sea.

The ship sails day and night, divided into three watches. Experience the camaraderie of being part of a watch, where everyone plays an important role in keeping the ship running smoothly and safely.

Meals on Board – More Than Just Food

Each day, the ship’s bell signals the start of a shared mealtime. The ship’s cook prepares three tasty, nutritious meals daily, with an extra snack at 4:00 PM. During the night watches, warm toasties are served—simple but comforting treats that add to the camaraderie aboard.

At each stop ashore, a supply of fresh vegetables and fruit is taken on board. The freezers are stocked with quality meat, and who knows—we might even catch a fish along the way.

On board, food is more than nourishment—it’s a way to connect. Around the table, stories are shared, friendships are formed, and you feel part of something special.

Book your spot now using the form below and let your sailing story begin.

Morgenster

Read more about this ship

Highlights

✔️ Crossing the Bay of Biscay and the English Channel
✔️ Participate in the watch system as a guest crew member
✔️ Discover one of Europe’s classic sailing routes

Frequently asked questions

We still handle your bookings personally and therefore do not have an automatic booking system. This way, we can enable you to reserve individual places for a few days without any obligation. This allows you, for example, to arrange your holiday without someone stealing your place from under your nose. For this reason, we cannot keep track of the exact number of free places on a daily basis. However, we regularly check the availability of our sailing holidays. Therefore, you can generally assume that plenty of free places are still available on all trips that are not marked as ‘fully booked’ or ‘Last Minute’. Call us or use our booking form if you want to know the exact number of places available.

If you are travelling alone and have not booked a private cabin, you will be accommodated in a shared cabin. The shared cabins are usually assigned based on gender.

Exceptions:

  • On the Belle Amie and the Seatrips yachts, there are sometimes mixed-gender cabins as well.
  • There are no shared cabins on the Sir Robert. Are you travelling alone? Then you should book a single cabin.

Yes, vegetarians and allergies/intolerances can be catered for on most ships. On some ships, the menu can also be adapted for vegans. However, there is only one menu per day on the programme. Therefore, please let us know during your booking if you have any special dietary requirements.

In principle, all our trips are suitable for both experienced and novice sailors. The professional crew on board will teach you everything you need to know. In some cases (e.g. on Atlantic crossings) initial sailing experience may be an advantage/requirement. In this case, this will be clearly indicated in the cruise description.

Prices

DescriptionPrice
Four-bed cabin
Adult€ 1.200 p.p.
Child
Double cabin
Adult€ 1.440 p.p.
Child

Included in price

Accommodation in Four-Person Cabins
Full board (3 meals a day + snack)
Coffee & tea
Bed linen
Nautical crew & cook

Not included in price

Transfer from/to the departure/arrival port (flight tickets etc.)
Further drinks (available on board at fair prices)
Travel and cancellation insurance
Shore excursions

Book this trip

Please use the following form if you have any questions about this trip or wish to book. You will receive a confirmation email that your booking request has been successfully received by us. We will then contact you as soon as possible with all the information. We usually respond within a few hours.

Group and trip details

Personal data