Eco Sailing Holiday in the Azores

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!