Adventure Sailing to Portugal from Spain
Sail from La Coruña to Lisbon with historic schooner Santa Maria Manuela on a sailing adventure to Portugal from Spain.
Adventure sailing from Spain to Portugal is a journey shaped by Atlantic winds, maritime history, and dramatic coastal scenery.
Midway through the passage, the Berlengas Islands offer a striking pause: a protected nature reserve of crystal-clear waters and remote beauty. The voyage concludes in Lisbon, one of Europe’s great maritime capitals. No sailing experience is required, only curiosity and a willingness to take part.
- Hands-on Historic Tall Ship Sailing
- Arrive in Lisbon beneath the 25 de Abril bridge
- Explore the remote Berlengas Islands
- Round the legendary Cape Finisterre
- No sailing experience needed
Need some help?
Talk to the team
Telephone: +44 (0)1872 487288
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp: +44 7804 472592
A Coruña, spain > Berlengas Islands > Lisbon, Portugal
Atlantic Sailing Adventure Along the Iberian Coast
Step aboard the historic tall ship Santa Maria Manuela for a spectacular sailing journey from the vibrant Galician port of Coruña to the sunlit shores of Lisbon. Before departure, take time to explore Coruña’s rich maritime heritage, lively waterfront markets, and the ancient Tower of Hercules, the world’s oldest working lighthouse. Departing this historic harbour, the voyage begins with open Atlantic sailing as the ship makes her way west around the dramatic cliffs of Cape Finisterre, long considered the edge of the known world.
Life aboard quickly settles into rhythm. Guests are invited to helm the wheel, trim sails, or simply relax on deck as the coastline unfolds. Whether you prefer hands-on sailing or quiet observation, the journey offers a balance of activity and relaxation, shaped by the steady movement of the sea.
Berlengas Islands: Portugal’s Hidden Coastal Sanctuary
Continuing south along the Portuguese coast, the ship reaches one of the voyage’s most memorable stops — the Berlengas Islands. This protected marine reserve sits off the coast of central Portugal, and its crystal-clear waters, dramatic rock formations, and abundant seabird life make it unlike anywhere else on this stretch of Atlantic. Anchoring off the islands gives time to explore at your own pace. Swim or kayak through sheltered coves, or wander rocky paths to the historic Sao Joao Baptista Fort, a striking stone structure set directly against the sea. The Berlengas feel remote and largely untouched — a rare sense of quiet in the middle of a sailing Portugal voyage that will stay with you long after you’ve left.
- Protected marine reserve & nature reserve
- Crystal-clear water for swimming
- Sao Joao Baptista Fort to explore
- Dramatic rock formations & sea caves
- Seabirds & abundant Atlantic wildlife
Arrival in Lisbon: A Memorable Atlantic Finale
From the Berlengas, the voyage continues south once more, catching the Atlantic breeze as the ship approaches Lisbon. The arrival is unforgettable — gliding beneath the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge and along a coastline steeped in history, from the elegant Belém Tower to the grand Praça do Comércio.
Lisbon, Portugal’s ancient and vibrant capital, invites exploration. With its hilltop viewpoints, colourful tiled facades, and soulful fado music, it is a city full of life and character. Guests are warmly encouraged to spend time discovering Lisbon after disembarking — an ideal conclusion to a memorable sailing journey.
Life Aboard Tall Ship Santa Maria Manuela
Santa Maria Manuela blends traditional seamanship with modern comfort. You’re invited to take part in daily sailing routines — steering the ship, learning knots, or helping the crew as sails are raised and trimmed — but there’s no obligation. There’s equal pleasure in watching seabirds glide across the Atlantic, reading on deck beneath open skies, or sharing stories at sunset. Life aboard finds its own rhythm quickly, and the chance to step away from the noise of everyday life is one of the most quietly rewarding things about a voyage like this.
- Shared guest cabins below deck
- Professional crew guidance
- Freshly prepared meals daily
- Hands-on or relaxed participation
- Social evenings on deck
Read more about Santa Maria Manuela
Things to note
Sailing vs Shoretime
Do I need to take part in night watches?
Travel insurance notes
As this is an active adventure holiday, we advise that everyone has the appropriate personal accident travel insurance whilst onboard in addition to standard travel insurance which would cover you in the time between making your booking and departing for your adventure. These policies can sometimes be combined so please check with your travel insurance provider.
Please read more information on our Insurance guidelines page.
This voyage will not be more than 12 miles offshore.
Santa Maria Manuela is committed to minimising her footprint, whether by sailing without an engine whenever the wind allows, recycling her waste, and offering workshops and talks to guests about the environment and the choices we can all make to protect it.
Santa Maria Manuela offers environmentally conscious, hands-on sailing and island-hopping voyages, diving expeditions, and sail-training experiences for all ages and abilities.
Getting Involved
Sailing with Santa Maria Manuela is certainly an unforgettable experience, as the crew invite guests to get involved with all aspects of sailing. From raising the sails together to climbing the mast, taking lookout, and even touring the engine room, it’s a privilege to learn the ropes on board such a historic boat.
The sheer size and number of sails aboard may seem daunting if you have never sailed before, but most guests who step aboard are complete novices. There is a minimum of 17 crew members, so under their professional guidance, guests will split into teams to take a sail each. There are always plenty of people aboard, so if you’re not physically able to haul sails all day, there are plenty of opportunities to swap out with someone else.
For longer passages at sea, Santa Maria Manuela runs an engaging, relaxed watch system with 4 hours on and 12 hours off. We like to think of it as a chance to spend some focused time with the crew and learn about all aspects of sailing this fascinating, historic ship. From lookout to taking the helm, working the bridge to exploring the engine room, there’s always plenty to do!
On the helm…
The ship’s wheel is located behind the bridge, allowing the captain to give directional instructions to the helm. This area has a clear view of the entire deck and sails, enabling them to monitor the sailors as they trim for optimal speed. Guests are invited to join the crew on the bridge and take the helm, both day and night. It’s an incredible experience to steer this 1930s four-masted schooner as she cuts through the waves. The officers on duty on the bridge love nothing more than sharing their navigation and weather-forecasting knowledge, and they’ve even been known to teach guests how to use a sextant.
Sleeping and Relaxation
Santa Maria Manuela has been refitted with a high-end, luxurious interior. Each cabin aboard the Santa Maria Manuela is unique, boasting its own space, design, and art that reflect the ship’s heritage and voyages. Split between two decks, you can choose from the master cabin (which can sleep couples or families of four), double en-suites, twin bunk cabins or take a berth in one of her spacious communal cabins. All cabins feature an ensuite, soundproofing, air-conditioning, USB charging, carpeted floors and privacy curtains.
The Salon Terra Nova accommodates up to 40 guests for dining and features plush bench sofas for ultimate relaxation. Equipped with a television, a well-stocked ship’s library, and a selection of board games, it’s an ideal setting for entertainment. However, we encourage guests to engage in meaningful conversations with fellow travellers and take a moment to admire the night sky while enjoying a refreshing drink from the bar.
Dining Aboard
Expect an array of authentic Portuguese dishes alongside international cuisine. Served in a buffet-style setting, guests can self-serve at designated seating. Weather permitting, the chef also hosts a BBQ night on the deck once a week.
The Salon Terra Nova offers the perfect atmosphere for sharing sailing tales and discussing daily adventures over a drink. Our skilled barman is always ready to impress with his cocktail creations, making it a great place to unwind after a day at sea.
On the water…
The Santa Maria Manuela offers a variety of facilities and activities for guests. Weather and itinerary permitting, there is fishing equipment, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, two inflatable swim decks for easy access to the water and two 14-person powerboats for those seeking a little more adventure.
Sample menu
All food is made on board and is served in a buffet style in the Salon Terra Nova, including one main course option for lunch and dinner. The ship also offers vegetarian options on request.
Breakfast
- Fresh fruit bowls
- Yoghurt, muesli & granola
- Continental Pastries
- Eggs
- Sausage or Bacon
Soup of the Day
- Watercress / Cabbage Broth / Chowder
Lunch
- Marinated Chicken
- Meatloaf
- Rice with mixed Peppers
- Seasonal vegetables
- French Fries
- Arugula Mix Salad
Dinner
- Cod Fish – Gomes de Sa Style & Fresh Greens
- Oven-baked Salmon & Boiled/Roasted Potatoes
- Hake Fillets & Tomato Rice
- Cauliflower Curry (V)
- Risotto (V)
- Lasagne (V)
- Bolognese (V)
Dessert
- Fruit of the Day
- Chocolate cake with chantilly
- Caramelised Apple
- Panacota
There is also a huge fruit bowl that guests can help themselves to throughout the voyage!
Santa Maria Manuela
Guest berths: 44 Rig: Gaff Schooner
In 2022, the Santa Maria Manuela underwent a complete comfort renovation, transforming her into one of the most modern and comfortable tall ships in the world while preserving her unique heritage.
Launched in 1937 as a commercial cod fishing vessel, the Santa Maria Manuela is a magnificent four-masted sailing schooner. After years spent navigating the icy northern waters, she now offers environmentally conscious sailing voyages, scientific expeditions, and event hosting. For those seeking something special, she is also available for bespoke private charters.
From island hopping through the Azores to longer ocean-going voyages, she is the perfect boat for those looking for a comfortable tall ship adventure. Guests can get as involved as they’d like to aboard, from hoisting the sails together to rope work workshops and chart reading. Whether you’re a solo traveller or adventurous couple, there is something to suit all ages and abilities. If guests prefer to sink back into the rhythms of life on the water, there is no obligation to get involved with the physical sailing of the ship.
With her remarkable heritage, striking white hull, elegant lines, straightforward sailing systems, and spacious open deck, she is one of the most notable vessels in the tall ship community. Her thoughtful renovation combines modern comforts with authentic sailing features that honour her origins. The largest ship in our fleet, she sleeps up to 44 guests in varying-sized en-suite cabins.
Deck plan
More about Santa Maria Manuela
More holidays in Portugal or Spain
Adventure Sailing in the Azores: Terceira to São Miguel
Sailing the Algarve Coast from Lisbon to Portimao
Eco Sailing Holiday in the Azores
Luxury Sailing Holiday from Mallorca to Malta
More holidays on Santa Maria Manuela
Photography Sailing Holiday in the Azores
Sailing the Bay of Biscay on a Historic Tall Ship
Adventure Sailing to Portugal from Spain
UK Coastal Sailing : Liverpool, Isles of Scilly & Plymouth
Inspiration for your voyage
Be inspired to discover the world under sail! Read our latest journals below. Be inspired to discover the world under sail! Read our latest journals below.
JOURNAL
