Bessie Ellen
Enjoy hands-on tall ship sailing with historic West Country trading ketch Bessie Ellen as she explores the coasts of Cornwall, Scotland, France and Spain. Join her 2024 ‘Round Britain Tour as she celebrates her 120th year of heritage sailing!
Step aboard Bessie Ellen, a classic tall ship with over 120 years of history, and embark on a sailing holiday that takes you back to a bygone era. As one of the last West Country trading ketches, Bessie Ellen has a remarkable past. She sailed through the turbulent times of both world wars, and has since been recognised for her historical significance, as she proudly graces the National Historic Ships Register, signifying her importance as a vessel in need of conservation.
Today, Bessie Ellen has transitioned into a vessel that sails the waters of the British Isles and Europe, offering unforgettable hands-on sailing holidays. With a warm and experienced crew, she provides guests with a comfortable and authentic tall ship experience.
Life on board Bessie Ellen
Sail alongside skipper Nikki and her crew as they navigate the stunning coastlines of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly, the Hebrides and St. Kilda. Discover unique landscapes, encounter abundant wildlife, and enjoy delicious food sourced locally and prepared on board. Joining on this maritime adventure is Bracken, the spirited and seaworthy ship dog, eager to accompany you on your voyage!
Choose from a range of sailing experiences on Bessie Ellen. Opt for a traditional sailing weekend break, delve deeper into the maritime experience with a weeklong trip, or embark on a 10-day exploration to remote destinations. Whichever journey you choose, you can be certain that you will be transported to a world where the wind fills the sails, the sea beckons, and the echoes of history resonate with every nautical mile.
Read more about what to expect from Life on board here.
Sailing on Bessie Ellen is more than just a holiday; it is an opportunity to embrace the authenticity of a bygone era. As you step aboard this historic vessel, you become part of her living legacy, connecting with the spirit of seafaring that has endured for over a century. Book your voyage with Bessie Ellen today and embark on an extraordinary journey through time.
Accommodation
- Total number of berths : 20
- Guest charter berths : 12
- Cabin Configuration : Shared bunks in open saloon
- Bathrooms with Showers : 2
- Day trips in sheltered waters : 60 (maximum)
- Day trips offshore : 12
- Reception/party on deck : 90
- Salty sea dog living on board : 1
Particulars
- Builder : W.S. Kelly, Plymouth
- Year built : 1904
- Displacement : 98 tons
- Length overall : 35m / 115'
- Draft : 3m / 9'6''
- Air draft : 34m / 80'
- Beam : 6m / 20'
- Rig : Gaff ketch
- Sail area : 330m² / 3550′²
- Number of Sails : 8
- Engine : 310hp Volvo Penta
- Crew : 4 (+2)
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Are meals included?
Yes - and we pride ourselves on the quality of food served!
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Can you cater for dietary needs?
Yes, please let us know at the time of enquiry
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Do I need to tip the crew?
Tips are not mandatory but are welcomed by the crew!
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Do I need to bring bedding or towels?
All your bedding (duvet and pillow) is provided but please bring your own towels (washing and/or swimming)
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What language is spoken on board?
English is the main language spoken, however on occasion we have crew onboard who are multilingual.
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What are the sleeping arrangements?
There are 12 comfortable berths in the former cargo hold. This is an open plan area that is also used for meals and relaxing
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How many toilets/showers does she have?
Bessie Ellen has two toilets/showers for guests.
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Is there WIFI?
No, but you will be able to reach 3/4G when you are close to land.
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Is there an age limit?
No, but we advise over 16's for scheduled voyages as there is an open saloon sleeping arrangement. There is no limit for private charter.
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Can I charge my phone or camera?
Yes. We run generators every day in the morning and evening, which run the 240 volt system of normal 3 pin sockets.
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Are there life jackets provided?
Yes.
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Are waterproofs available?
No. Please bring your own. There are a few spare for emergencies only.
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Do I need to be a seasoned sailor?
Not at all. We give everyone who joins us on board the choice to do as much or as little as they like, whether the know how to or not.
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Do I have to do watches?
During a passage crossings you may be asked to be part of our watch rota, this is not compulsory but is definitely part of boat life that guests enjoy when at sea for long periods.
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Will there be time to get off the boat?
Yes on most of our trips we try and explore the areas we are sailing around each day, except for passage crossings where of course we are at sea for most of the voyage.
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Will I be sea sick?
Everyone reacts differently but we recommend if you are worried to take some medication 24 hours before travelling.
Skipper profile
Nikki Alford
Nikki, owner and skipper has proudly taken care of the magnificent Bessie Ellen since 2000.
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Life onboard
Bessie Ellen
Life on board Bessie Ellen is as you make it. Relax and watch for wildlife, and get stuck in with either honing your skills or learning the ropes.
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The History of
Bessie Ellen
Bessie Ellen started life out in Plymouth, England, and is now one of the last remaining trading ketches in the West Country.
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Destinations
Our range of vessels enables us to offer several destinations all over the globe. Which adventure will you choose?
View Destinations
Our Fleet
With vessels of all sizes and each with a unique history and construction, there is no shortage of choice for your sailing holiday.
View Fleet
