Sailing Taster in South Devon

YOUR SAILING AREA

The South Devon, UK

A sailing holiday on the south Devon coast is the perfect introduction to sailing in the UK. With easy travel access from all over the UK, you can hop on a train and be on the coast from London in less than three hours. The whole coastline stretching from Brixham around Start point to Plymouth is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with the harbour towns of Dartmouth, Salcombe, Brixham and the Yealm all oozing in quintessential Devonshire charm and are certainly best accessed by boat.

You’ll have plenty of chance to go ashore and discover much-loved seaside towns, as well as experience the coastline from the sea, offering a unique perspective of the county. Whether you’re a seasoned solo sailor or a group looking to do something a bit different with your weekend, Escape’s crew will cater for all ages and abilities.

Learn new skills alongside an experienced skipper with hands-on, basic navigation, honing your understanding of charts, compasses, and plotting courses. With Andy’s guidance, you’ll develop confidence and competence in sailing, enhancing your maritime knowledge while exploring the captivating coastal waters.

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As you venture from the River Dart to the open sea, your course will be largely dictated by the wind. Perhaps set a course westward along the Devon coast. This captivating route may take you past Blackpool, Slapton Sands, and the expansive Slapton Ley, the southwest’s largest freshwater lake. Wildlife enthusiasts, remember to bring your cameras, as you may encounter a plethora of bird species. Moor your vessel in the delightful waterside town of Salcombe, where friendly locals, traditional fishing vessels, cobbled streets, and artisan shops await.

For serene anchoring, the tranquil river of Yealm does not disappoint. Nestled amidst breathtaking natural surroundings, the Yealm River offers a peaceful sanctuary for sailors seeking tranquillity and seclusion. With its calm waters and idyllic setting, it provides the perfect spot to drop anchor, unwind, and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of South Devon’s coastal paradise.

If the wind beckons you eastward, sail past the impressive Berry Head, one of Devon’s Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Keep your eyes peeled for playful porpoises, dancing dolphins, and a variety of seabirds, including guillemots, kittiwakes, kestrels, and gulls. Beyond Berry Head, a stop at Brixham awaits, where the magnificent Pilgrim of Brixham and an abundance of maritime history enchant visitors. Witness the nostalgic sight of wooden vessels moored in front of picturesque pastel-coloured fishermen’s cottages, transporting you back in time. Brixham’s harbour welcomes numerous classic and traditional vessels, creating an enchanting maritime atmosphere.

All voyages for Escape

Escape

Guest berths: 4 Rig: Gaff Yawl

Escape is a 43-foot wooden classic gaff yawl built-in 1937 by Kristensen in Norway. She was originally designed by Colin Archer as a sailing lifeboat but was refined to make her slightly smaller and easier to sail by her owners.

Today, her owner and skipper Andy sails his guests around the west country, from Escape’s home port of Dartmouth all the way down the Devon coast exploring Salcombe & Yealm or Torbay and Brixham. She’s the perfect vessel for a family sailing holiday or for a group of friends after something a little different – and with great food and drink included in the price, a sailing holiday on Escape won’t be forgotten!

Andy and his crew will give you a totally relaxed sailing holiday experience but if and when you do want to be involved, they are more than happy to share their knowledge and show you the ropes!

Read more about Devon Sailing on Escape on our Journal here.

Life on board Escape

Sailing with classic yacht Escape is perfect for those looking to learn about life on the water under the guidance of a very relaxed skipper! All her voyages take place on the South West coast between Devon to Cornwall and this part of the coast provides some great sheltered sailing areas. Escape is a great boat for beginners and small families alike looking for a skippered sailing charter in a safe environment.

Getting Involved

Escape’s gaff rig is a traditional but simple set up which makes her a great vessel to learn the ropes on if you’re a beginner. If you’re familiar with life on the water, then you’ll certainly appreciate the sailing lines of this Colin Archer classic!

Owner and skipper Andy has the highest Ocean Masters training and is a member of the RNLI lifeboat operating out of Dartmouth. His considered and soft approach instantly put guests at ease as he shares his knowledge to teach the ways of the water, basic navigation and simple rope work.

Sleeping and Relaxation

Above decks, there is ample space to sit out, relax and enjoy the views. A comfy cushioned cockpit is a great place to sit and watch the landscape go by as you feel the wind in the sails. Below decks, there are two single bunks set off the saloon with a double bed and toilet in the fore. A multi-fuel stove sits in the saloon for those cooler evenings and a tiny galley is home to a whistling red kettle that is always bubbling away ready for tea and coffee.

A hearty selection of home-cooked meals are included in the price. With fresh croissants for breakfast, afternoon cake selections and classic dishes such as lasagne or chilli for dinner – you certainly won’t be going hungry after an exhilarating day sailing on this stunning classic yacht.

To note…

The double bed cabin does have access to the toilet so please note that we do not consider this a “private” cabin. There is a single toilet and washroom on board but no shower. Escape will stop every day to use onshore showers in the local yacht clubs (Andy has good contacts and will organise this for you!)

Kit list

Escape has limited space for possessions so please be considerate and travel as light as possible. There is no storage for rigid cases so please bring your items in a soft bag or rucksack.

We recommend a travelling light principal with lots of lightweight, easy-drying layers. Below is a list of recommended items, these are not mandatory and those who have sailed before may have their preferences!

• Fingerless gloves for hoisting sails (sailing or cycling are best)
• Walking boots/shoes for onshore & light shoes/trainers (with good grip)
• Short waterproof boots (dependent on weather forecast)
• Swimsuit and swim towel (if you’re brave enough!) 
• Lightweight, quick-dry clothes (base layers, fleece and synthetic tops are both lightweight and quick-drying!)

It can be quite a few degrees colder out at sea so please bring lots of layers even if the forecast seems like a warm week!

• Warm, windproof and waterproof coat/lightweight trousers. (Andy has some offshore sailing jackets if needed!)
• Sun cream (please use reef-safe, eco products where possible)
• Sunglasses and a warm hat/cap
• Small personal first aid kit and any medication you may need
• Camera/binoculars 
• Personal wash kit (please use reef-safe, eco products where possible)
• Charging cables for personal devices 
• A good book to read!
• Consider a small backpack/bag for onshore exploring

SAMPLE MENU FOR Escape

All food is made on board and local, fresh produce is top of the shopping list! Please note that this is an example of what you may be served.

BREAKFAST

• Selection of tea, coffee and fruit juices
• Muesli, yoghurt and fruit compote
• Bread and home-made conserves

ELEVENSES/AFTERNOON CAKE

• Tea, coffee and home-made cakes

LUNCH

• Home-made soup of the day
• Fresh ham baguettes, salad and crisps
• Plough-mans platter

DINNER

• Home-made Lasagne, garlic bread and salad
• Chilli con carne served with rice
• Local fish and chips!

DESSERT

• Selection of sweets, cakes and biscuits available

What’s Included

• Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and soft/hot drinks)
• All bedding (pillow, sheets & duvet) and a wash towel
• Full crew plus tuition
• Marina and fuel fees
• All tender trips to and fro the boat
• Lifejacket
• Offshore sailing jacket for use on the boat

What’s not included

• Alcohol
• 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 not be more than 12miles offshore.

FAQ

• Are all meals included?

  Yes, all meals on board are included in the price. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner and soft/hot drinks)

• Can you cater for dietary needs?

  Meat eaters and vegetarians only please

• Are there any added extras?

  There's an honesty bar for soft drinks and alcohol.

• What are the sleeping arrangements?

  Escape has two single berths (with privacy curtains) and one double bed for guests in an open cabin arrangement. There are seat berths available as extras for children/family bookings if necessary.

• Is there a porthole in my berth?

  The double cabin has a porthole and the saloon has a hatch window for the single berths.

• How many toilet/showers does she have?

  Escape has one toilet. She will harbour every evening to use yacht club showers that Andy will organise for you.

• Are bedding and towels included?

  All bedding and a towel is included but please bring your own swim towels (if needed). Micro-fibres are a great lightweight, quick-drying alternative.

• Is there a hairdryer on board?

  No, please do not bring one. The sea breeze makes a great natural alternative!

• Will I be able to wash my clothes?

  No, Escape does not have laundry on board.

• Is there heating onboard?

  Yes, there is a small diesel heater if needed.

• Do I need to tip the crew?

  Tips are not mandatory but are welcomed by the crew!

• What language is spoken onboard?

  English.

• Is there WIFI?

  No! It's time to disconnect from the modern tech and reconnect with nature! When within shore range, you should be able to reach 4/5G.

• Can I charge my phone/Camera?

  Yes, there are 12V USB cigarette lighter points available at all times. 240V standard socket charging is available when Escape is hooked up to shore power or when the generator is on.

• What is the currency on board?

  GBP - pounds sterling

• Are there life jackets provided?

  Yes - there are life jackets from toddler through to adult.

• How do I get on and off the boat?

  Escape is often at anchor so you'll need to be comfortable climbing in and out of the tender dinghy and climbing up and over the low gunwale.

• Are Waterproofs provided?

  Yes, Andy has some offshore jackets if needed.

• Do I need sailing experience?

  No, absolutely not! Just a lust for adventure.

• Does the boat have any water toys?

  No

• Will I be sea sick?

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

• Is there an age limit?

  Ideally 5+ but this can depend on experience - please check in with the office.

Travel Planning

From: Dartmouth

To: Dartmouth

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

GETTING THERE

DARTMOUTH

PARKING

It’s recommended to find parking on the residential roads (Mount Boone & Mount Boone Crescent) at the top of the town. A space or the safety of your vehicle cannot be guaranteed. Dartmouth waterfront is about a 15-minute walk if you park near Mount Boone.

BY RAIL

Dartmouth’s closest train station is Totnes. There are direct trains with Great Western Railway to Totnes from Penzance, Cardiff Central and London Paddington, and Plymouth and Leeds with CrossCountry trains. Once at Totnes Railway Station take a 17-minute taxi ride.

BY AIR

Exeter Airport is the most convenient airport and requires taking a taxi directly to Brixham (approximately 50 minutes).

STAY IN DARTMOUTH

There are plenty of places to stay in Dartmouth. Try Royal Castle, Browns Hotel or Bayards Cove Inn.