Iris

Named after the Greek Goddess of goodness, life on board the tall ship Iris is certainly a wholesome experience.

Our tall ship sailing holidays on Iris are perfect for the adventure traveller wanting to see remote destinations while learning the ropes of a traditionally rigged vessel. Sailing with Iris is one of discovery, comfort and goodness. Built in 1916 as a herring drifter, Iris has undergone many transformations over the years, and she is now a modern charter vessel exploring the Baltic Sea under sail.

Sailing with tall ship Iris is perfect for the adventure traveller looking to explore harder-to-reach destinations under sail. With private cabins, she’s great for solo travellers and active couples alike looking for new adventures and exhilarating experiences.

Getting involved

Iris is owned and skippered by sailing couple, Jans and Liv. They have been sailing traditional tall ships for many years all over the world and are well-versed in sailing the Baltic Sea with guests.

They invite guests to get actively involved with all aspects of sailing the ship. From hoisting the 9 sails, taking the helm, learning some basic navigation and rope work – there is no experience needed to climb aboard!

Jans and Liv’s sailing concept is “full board with participation”. Aside from learning the ropes on deck, all guests are invited to take part in the daily operation of the boat, depending on their skill set and interests. Typical tasks include helping with meal preparation (like chopping vegetables or setting the table) or supporting with washing up afterwards.

There is no strict requirement for anyone to cook if they don’t feel comfortable with it. The idea is simply to contribute in a way that feels natural and enjoyable. The crew always makes sure that everything runs smoothly, provides the food supplies, and plans the menu for the journey.

Sleeping and Relaxation

Below decks, Iris has been carefully considered from her previous life as a live-aboard, making her communal spaces generously sized and comfortable. You’d be hard-pushed to associate the space with a historic working cargo vessel! Amidships, a large, inviting sofa area sits alongside a bespoke dining table, creating a natural hub for slow mornings and shared evenings. Ceiling hatches flood the space with natural light, giving the saloon a gentle brightness throughout the day, while a record player and a small but historically rich onboard library add a quietly nostalgic, unhurried feel. An honesty bar keeps things informal, inviting guests to settle in and make the space their own.

On deck, oversized waterproof bean bags offer a favourite place to unwind, perfect for stretching out with a book, taking in the sea air, or simply pausing between sailing moments.

Iris accommodates up to 12 guests across six cosy twin cabins, each with two comfortable single beds and a private washbasin. The cabins are arranged into two distinct areas below deck, naturally dividing the shared facilities, with two toilets and two showers between them. When in port, guests also have the option to use marina facilities for added comfort.

For moments of fun and connection, Iris carries a relaxed, playful spirit. There’s a cooled beer tap on board, alongside an extensive collection of games, and for those drawn to music, both an accordion and a guitar are never far from reach. A stand-up paddleboard is available on select voyages for gentle coastal exploration, and for a touch of traditional tall ship life, a few hammocks invite you to slow down even further.