Bessie Ellen

Bessie Ellen offers quality sailing holidays on board a classic tall ship with over 100 years of history, and is now one of the last West Country trading ketches.

This ship worked through both world wars during the last era of wind-powered trade, when ships like Bessie were seen all over England. She is featured on the National Historic Ships Register, which identifies her as a historic vessel that needs to be conserved.

Now, her working life is very different, and she spends her days cruising around British and Spanish waters, offering sailing holidays. With an experienced and hospitable crew, Bessie Ellen provides her guests with a comfortable and authentic tall ship experience. Skipper Nikki occasionally nods back to Bessie’s past by loading her up with cargo for ocean passages, transporting beer from Harbour Brewery and making the most out of the emission-free transport that Bessie offers.

Sail with Bessie Ellen and Nikki, around Cornwall, the Hebrides, St. Kilda, Norway, and Demark, you’ll not only enjoy sailing aboard a tall ship, but experience unique coastlines, abundant wildlife, and excellent food, all sourced locally and prepared on board.

Choose from weekend breaks, weeklong trips, or 10-day explorations for a truly unforgettable holiday.

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

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)