Sail the tall ship Florette on the west coast of Scotland through St George’s Channel and explore the coasts of Ireland and Cornwall before crossing the Bay of Biscay to eventually reach La Coruna in Spain. This trip is the perfect opportunity to clock up some sea miles and experience life on open water aboard a traditionally rigged tall ship. Exactly where you moor and anchor depends entirely on the weather forecast. The trip lasts 15 days. This includes buffer days to make the most of the wind.
The gentle, steady rise and fall of the hull in the waves, the vastness of the sea and the gentle creak of the rigging are the perfect ingredients for a relaxing yet adventurous holiday experience. During this voyage, the Florette is likely to make stops on the coast of Ireland and perhaps Cornwall before crossing the English Channel and the Bay of Biscay!
Offshore sailing passages are only suitable for the bravest adventurers looking for the ultimate challenge. Once we leave port, there is no turning back! We recommend that beginners first gain some experience on the water and spend some time on a boat or ship before embarking on a trip. This could be a trial sailing weekend, a dinghy sailing club membership or a weekend on your grandparents’ boat. The professional and experienced crew will teach you everything you need to know as you sail along and become part of the crew, hoist the sails, stand at the helm and become familiar with all aspects of sailing a traditional brigantine. The Florette operates a 3-member watch system for all guests and crew throughout the voyage. You will never be without a crew member and the watch system is not worked out until everyone is on board to assess the guests’ skills.
From plotting the route on the chart, cooking together, navigating astronomically, hoisting and trimming sails to working on and repairing the sails – there is something for everyone to do during the watch. The rest of the time is free to enjoy the inky night sky, read a book or three or play cards together. The sea gives you the opportunity to detach yourself from the obligations of the modern world and fill your soul with “vitamin sea”.
More information on arrival/departure options to and from Oban or La Coruna is available from us on request.
