Life on Board Florette

AUTHENTIC TALL SHIP SAILING

Florette and her crew always try to combine traditional classic sailing while immersing guests in the natural landscapes ashore. Florette invites you to get involved with her traditional sailing. With an original rig, it is certainly an all-hands on deck approach  – which is surely part of the magic to this adventure sailing holiday. You don’t need any experience to join, just “an open mind and a good sense of humour” in the words of Captain Ron! There will be dedicated crew on hand to quite literally, show you the ropes. From taking the helm, hoisting the sails, climbing the mast and some basic navigation, there is no shortage of things to get involved with.

Sailing Florette is a true family affair. Captain Ron is the 2nd generation to run and sail Florette with his family after his parents bought the boat back in the 70’s. Ron was brought up on the boat, as he is now doing with his family. Alongside Ron and his wife Nicole, Florette is fully crewed with experienced and knowledgeable sailors. Nicole is also the boats chef, cooking up fabulous cuisine, so you won’t be going hungry after a day of sailing and exploring. Part of the family is also Spanish water dog Lucy!

HAVE FUN!

Florette commands attention wherever she sails with her traditional wooden hull, decoratively carved transom and her impressive sail rig. Sailing with her is part of the magic of an adventure holiday and is a huge part of the experience. She also has sea kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and snorkelling gear for guests to use at no extra cost.  There is also fishing gear available which is used to catch fresh fish for supper!

Sleeping and Relaxation

Florette is one of the larger boats in our fleet so she has ample space both above and below decks. Her Captain and family live-aboard but they have their own separate quarters. Guests can enjoy private cabins in combinations of 2-3 berth bunks. All cabins share a total of four toilets and three showers with another shower on deck for a rinse off after some sea swimming. For Atlantic crossings and Caribbean voyages only, under 30’s have the chance for a true authentic pirate experience to stay in a hammock! Each hammock will be allocated a seaman’s chest for any belongings and will strung up in the saloon between 9pm and 8am. 

A generous saloon, bar and eating area sit below decks with a traditional wooden finish. Above decks there is a large cushioned area for relaxation, sun-bathing or sleeping beneath the stars (bring your own sleeping bag if this is something you fancy!). An alfresco dining area sits mid-ships, perfect for lunches in the sun or dinners at sunset. 

EATING

Nicole prepares meals using local fresh ingredients, seasonal produce and local fish to make excellent, healthy dishes. Depending on whether the voyage is a week-long coastal sail or an ocean going adventure, the menu plan will change slightly. Usually, breakfast is onboard everyday and six meals (on a week-long voyage) are included in the ticket price. These six meals can be a combination of lunches or dinners with the rest of guest meals eaten ashore at guests expense. The ticket price reflects this and gives guests the opportunity to sample and enjoy the local cuisine. If for some reason, Florette cannot get guests ashore, meals will be offered from the boat at a reasonable price. Please see each voyage for a breakdown of what meals options are included!