Tall Ship Sailing in Cornwall Aboard Bessie Ellen
Sailing in Cornwall aboard classic tall ship Bessie Ellen, exploring sheltered bays, ancient rivers and fishing harbours along the Cornish coast from Falmouth.
Join classic tall ship Bessie Ellen for a week of sailing in Cornwall from Falmouth, exploring the sheltered bays, fishing harbours, and ancient tidal rivers of one of Britain’s most beautiful coastlines. Skipper Nikki grew up in Cornwall and knows every anchorage along this coast, and her crew are on hand to share the experience from the very first morning.
No sailing experience is needed as Bessie Ellen’s welcoming crew makes this one of the finest introductions to tall ship sailing anywhere in Britain. This voyage is perfect for those seeking a genuine and hands-on tall ship experience in sheltered, Cornish waters.
- No sailing experience needed
- Dolphins, basking sharks and seabirds
- Traditional tall ship, fully crewed
- Ancient rivers and fishing harbours
- Great for solo travellers
Need some help?
Talk to the team
Telephone: +44 (0)1872 487288
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp: +44 7804 472592
Tall Ship Sailing on the Cornish Coast
Falmouth → Helford River → Mevagissey → Fowey (conditions allowing) → Falmouth
The Cornish coast is very much home water for Bessie Ellen, a traditional tall ship that has worked in and out of these ports for many years. Skipper Nikki and her crew will have you hauling on sheets and taking the helm from the very first day, and the sheltered waters between Falmouth and Fowey give even complete beginners the confidence to get properly involved. As the coast unfolds there is plenty to watch for beyond the sails. Dolphins are a regular sight in these waters, basking sharks cruise the surface in summer, and the Peregrine falcon, which has made a strong comeback along the Cornish cliffs in recent years, can often be spotted overhead. Evenings at anchor bring clear skies and the kind of stillness that is difficult to find anywhere else.
Where the Wind Takes You
The route follows the wind and the weather, which is very much the spirit of this voyage. Skipper Nikki will have a clearer picture of the forecast as you board, and the plan takes shape from there. The Helford River is one of the finest stops on the Cornish coast, one of the last places in England where ancient woodland meets the sea directly, with remote anchorages tucked into its bends and the south-west coast path winding along its banks. Mevagissey is another favourite, one of Cornwall’s best-preserved fishing harbours, with possible stops at Fowey and St Mawes depending on conditions. Wherever Bessie Ellen drops anchor, there is always something worth going ashore to explore.
- Helford River, ancient woodland meeting the sea
- Mevagissey, one of Cornwall’s finest fishing harbours
- Dolphins, basking sharks and Peregrine falcons along the coast
- Beachcombing and coast path walks from the tender
- Starry skies at anchor away from light pollution
Aboard Bessie Ellen: A Classic British Tall Ship
Built in 1904 and lovingly maintained ever since, Bessie Ellen is one of the last surviving traditional British trading ketches. At 85 feet she is nimble enough to explore the shallow harbours and tidal rivers of Cornwall that larger vessels cannot reach, and her traditional gaff rig gives guests a genuine tall ship sailing experience from day one. Skipper Nikki and her crew are welcoming and knowledgeable, and the atmosphere aboard is warm, unhurried, and genuinely special. Accommodation is in shared cabins below deck, full board throughout with all meals enjoyed together aboard.
- Shared cabin accommodation aboard a historic vessel
- Full board, meals enjoyed together aboard
- Hands-on sailing throughout, guests are part of the crew
- Fully skippered with a friendly, professional crew
- Great for solo travellers and complete beginners
[Read more about Bessie Ellen]
Things to note
Sailing vs Shore time
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.
Sailing with traditional tall ship Bessie Ellen is an experience you will never forget. From the moment you board, you can feel this magnificent ship’s 120 years of sailing history 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.
Getting Involved
The crew actively encourage guests to get involved with all aspects of sailing – it 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 essential rope work, and even picking up some navigation skills. Bessie Ellen welcomes adventurers of all backgrounds, provided they love adventure and the natural world!
The other important crew member is the ship dog Bracken! A small border terrier well-versed in life on board, he loves watching for dolphins, exploring ashore and sleeping under sail.
Sleeping & 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 light, complete bedding and a privacy curtain. A tiny galley sits tucked midships, and you will be in awe and wonder at the meals that come out of this space.
Above decks, she has plenty of spots to tuck yourself to read a book, take a nap in the fresh air or simply watch the world go by.
Dining Aboard
Nikki is not only a competent skipper but also an incredible cook, using locally sourced produce wherever possible. From fresh fish in Scotland, scallops from the rivers of Cornwall and venison joints from her local farm contacts, eating aboard Bessie Ellen is undoubtedly a highlight. The tiny galley does not reflect the feasts created, so you won’t go hungry after a day in the sea air.
A Typical Day
After a hearty breakfast, gather to discuss the plan for the day, based on the current weather forecasts. Everybody then works together to get the boat ready, preparing lines, hoisting sails, pulling fenders; there is something for all ages and abilities. Usually, you’ll spend the morning sailing before exploring ashore in the afternoon. Lunch is most often served underway with evening meals at anchor. For longer expedition voyages, there may be longer hours under sail, but Nikki aims to go ashore at least once a day, not least to walk sea dog Bracken!
Sample menu
All food is made on board and locally; fresh produce is at the top of the shopping list! Please note that this is an example of what you may be served.
Breakfast
- Selection of tea, freshly ground coffee and fruit juices
- Muesli, yoghurt and fruit compote
- Selection of cheeses, breads and sliced meats
- Fruit and home-made conserves
- Boiled or scrambled eggs with smoked salmon
- Occasionally, bacon and sausages
Elevenses/Afternoon Cake
- Tea, coffee and home-made cakes
Lunch
- Chef’s pumpkin soup with coriander
- Freshly baked breads, feta tart with home-made dill gravadlax
- Watercress and walnut salad with cauliflower florets served with lemon olive oil dressing
- Selection of fine cheeses with pickles, relishes, salami, olives and cornichons
Dinner
- Seared scallops served with black pudding and roast apple
- Slow-cooked leg of local pork with fennel, chilli, lemon juice marinade with salsa verde
- Herb-roasted beetroot, parsnips, red onion and carrots
- Creamy mashed potatoes with mustard and finely chopped spring onions
Dessert
- Tart Tatin served celeriac ice cream
- Local cheeses and biscuits
- Coffee and home-made chocolates
Bessie Ellen
Guest berths: 12 Rig: Gaff Rigged Ketch
Step aboard Bessie Ellen, a classic tall ship with over 120 years of history. 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.
Bessie Ellen is perfect for those seeking an immersive traditional sailing experience while enjoying Nikki’s famous hospitality, great food and team spirit. Whether you’re a solo traveller looking for exploration or an adventurous couple seeking a unique experience, sailing aboard Bessie Ellen promises to create lifelong memories. It’s no wonder that guests return year after year, captivated by her charm.
Choose from a range of sailing experiences, from taster sailing weekends, weeklong voyages through the Hebrides, or embark on a 10-day exploration to more remote destinations. Help hoist the sails together, take the helm and learn basic navigation techniques alongside the crew. Nikki invites guests to get involved with all aspects of running the ship, so you can climb the bowsprit and help with simple rope work or take part in traditional maintenance aboard.
At over 120ft in length, she has a large open deck with plenty of spots to sit back and relax once the sails are set. Below decks, a spacious saloon has a great communal atmosphere where guests can feast together, sleep in individual curtained bunks and share their travelling stories.
Sailing on Bessie Ellen is more than just a holiday. 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.
Deck plan
More about Bessie Ellen
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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
