‘Round Britain Tour; Sailing the English Channel

Your Sailing Area

Ramsgate to Brest

This leg begins on the scenic coast of Kent in the harbour of Ramsgate offering a blend of maritime heritage and Georgian architecture. Explore the bustling Royal Harbour, adorned with elegant Georgian buildings and a picturesque marina filled with yachts and fishing boats. 

Our journey begins with an exhilarating channel crossing from Ramsgate, bidding farewell to the English shores as we venture into the vast expanse of the English Channel. Feel the excitement as the wind fills the sails, propelling Bessie Ellen towards the French coast. Take in the panoramic views of the sea and sky, immersing yourself in the serenity of the open water.

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As we approach the French coast, exactly where we will stopover will largely be dictated by the wind and weather. We may cross through the Channel islands along the way. Once we reach the Breton coast, prepare to be enchanted by the rugged beauty of the Ushant Islands, a jewel of the Atlantic Ocean. These remote and windswept islands, known as “Ouessant” in French, boast dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and an intriguing maritime history. Explore the charming village of Lampaul, with its traditional stone houses and picturesque harbor, where you can witness the daily rhythms of island life. Immerse yourself in the rich seafaring heritage of the Ushants as you visit the historic lighthouses that have guided countless ships through treacherous waters. 

Our voyage concludes in the port city of Brest, a thriving maritime hub that has preserved its seafaring traditions and rich naval history. The surrounding bays will be teeming with classic boats from all over the world who will be arriving to take part in the Brest International Maritime Festival. 

Explore the bustling harboor, lined with impressive sailboats and historic ships, and stroll through the cobbled streets of the old town, admiring its charming architecture and lively cafes. Discover the fascinating maritime museums, such as the National Maritime Museum and the Museum of the Navy, showcasing Brest’s long-standing relationship with the sea. Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene, as Brest offers a range of art galleries, theatres, and music festivals.

The Brest International Maritime Festival brings together sailing enthusiasts, historic ships, and cultural performances. Immerse yourself in the nautical atmosphere, witness majestic vessels, and celebrate the rich maritime heritage that defines this extraordinary festival.

All voyages for Bessie Ellen

Bessie Ellen

Guest berths: 12 Rig: Gaff Rigged Ketch

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.

Life on board Bessie Ellen

Sailing with traditional tall ship Bessie Ellen is certainly an experience you will never forget. From the moment you board, you can feel the 120 years of sailing history this magnificent classic has under her sails. Faithfully restored over many years by her owner and skipper Nikki, it’s clear to see how dedicated she is to the rich maritime history and authenticity of sailing such a tall ship.

Bessie Ellen is perfect for those looking for an immersive traditional sailing experience while enjoying Nikki’s famous hospitality, great food and team spirit. Whether you’re a solo traveler yearning for exploration or an adventurous couple seeking a unique journey, sailing aboard Bessie Ellen promises to create lifelong memories. It’s no wonder that guests return year after year, captivated by the ship’s allure.

Getting Involved

The crew actively encourage guests to get involved with all aspects of sailing on a traditional vessel – it really is an all-hands-on-deck attitude. This all-hands-on-deck approach ensures an engaging and inclusive experience for everyone. Even if you have no prior sailing experience, the crew’s expertise and guidance will have you hoisting sails, taking the helm in open waters, mastering basic rope work, and even picking up some navigation skills. Bessie Ellen welcomes adventurers of all backgrounds, provided they have a love for adventure and the natural world!

The other important crew member is ships dog Bracken! A small border terrier who is well-versed in life on board, loves watching for dolphins, exploring ashore and sleeping while under sail.

Sleeping and relaxation

Below decks, guests are indulged in a spacious saloon with original wooden beams, comfy open bunks and two toilet/wet-rooms where you’d be forgiven for forgetting that you were even on a boat! Each bunk has its own light, full bedding and a privacy curtain. A tiny galley sits tucked mid-ships and you will be in awe and wonder of the meals that come out of this space.

Nikki is not only a competent skipper but also an incredible cook using locally sourced produce everywhere possible. 

Become part of her maritime history…

In addition to the incredible experiences mentioned above, Bessie Ellen offers the unique opportunity to embark on her round Britain sailing tour marking her 120th birthday. These voyages take you on an enchanting journey around the breathtaking coastlines and historic ports of Britain. From the rugged beauty of Cornwall to the mystical allure of Scotland’s lochs and islands, each voyage unveils the diverse wonders of Britain’s coastal heritage. Prepare to embark on an extraordinary voyage through Britain’s sailing legacy on board Bessie Ellen, where every moment is infused with the spirit of seafaring tradition and warm camaraderie.

What’s Included

• All-inclusive (breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Soft/hot drinks)
• All bedding (pillow, sheets & duvet)
• Full crew plus tuition
• Marina and fuel fees
• All tender trips to and fro the boat
• Lifejacket
• Offshore sailing jacket and trousers for emergencies (these are not permitted to be taken ashore)

What’s not included

• Alcohol
• Wash and/or swim towel
• All flights
• Transit hotels
• Travel to and from the boat on the day of joining/leaving
• Travel insurance
• Sailing Insurance (Please read our Sailing Insurance page for more information)
• Crew tips
• Personal expenses

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 be more than 12miles offshore.

FAQ

• Are meals included?

  Yes - and we pride ourselves on the quality of food served!

• Can you cater for dietary needs?

  Yes, please let us know at the time of enquiry

• Do I need to tip the crew?

  Tips are not mandatory but are welcomed by the crew!

• 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)

• What language is spoken on board?

  English is the main language spoken, however on occasion we have crew onboard who are multilingual.

• 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

• How many toilets/showers does she have?

  Bessie Ellen has two toilets/showers for guests.

• Is there WIFI?

  No, but you will be able to reach 3/4G when you are close to land.

• 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.

• 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.

• Are there life jackets provided?

  Yes.

• Are waterproofs available?

  No. Please bring your own. There are a few spare for emergencies only.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Will I be sea sick?

  Everyone reacts differently but we recommend if you are worried to take some medication 24 hours before travelling.

Travel Planning

From: Ramsgate, UK

To: Brest, France

To see where the ports are, along with your likely sailing area, please view the sail area & highlights.

Getting There

RAMSGATE

BY RAIL

Ramsgate train station is a couple of minutes away by taxi to/from Ramsgate Royal Harbour Marina or a 20 minute walk.  

BY COACH 

You can travel by coach with National Express and they stop next to the harbour. 

GETTING HOME

BREST

BY RAIL

Brest railway station (Gare de Brest) is a few minutes walk from the Port area. Brest links to Rennes and Paris (6 hours) aswell as regional services to Brittany. 

BY AIR

Brest Airport (BES) is about a 10 to 20 minute taxi ride to/from Brest. 

There is a tram airport shuttle service (Tram A) followed by bus route 20 operated by Bibus – Brest métropole océane which is about a 30 minute journey running approximately every 20 minutes.