Tall ship Taster on the Kiel Canal

Kiel canal

Every year, around 40,000 ships pass through the exits of the Kiel Canal (in German: Nord-Ostsee-Kanal, literally ‘North-to-Baltic Sea canal’). The canal was opened by Kaiser Wilhelm II in 1895 – later on, the construction costs were raised by a tax on sparkling wine introduced by the Kaiser. The journey will take us right through Schleswig-Holstein, along green banks and under high railway bridges which almost seem to touch the top of our mast.

We plan an overnight stay in Rendsburg, the charming town between the river Eider and the Kiel Canal. For the Eye of the Wind, this stay is a kind of nostalgic journey into her own past, as the builder and contractor who had the ship built in 1911 was a captain from the Rendsburg area. … only one more lock till the Baltic Sea.

After almost 100 kilometers we will reach the eastern canal locks in Holtenau and immediately afterwards the Kiel Fjord. Mooring in the lock chambers is always a very special experience. In fact, almost three times as many ships sail on the Kiel Canal than on the Panama and Suez canals – ship enthusiasts can look forward to lots of photo opportunities. Walking to the small Holtenau lighthouse, you will get a taste of the nostalgic harbour atmosphere – numerous old cargo ships and schooners are often anchored on the quay at dusk.

For safety reasons, ships usually only move through the Kiel Canal by the engine without set sails. On the river Elbe between Hamburg and Brunsbüttel, it may be possible – depending on the wind direction – to set sails now and again. On the last full day of our short cruise, however, we want to experience the ship under sail! From our mooring spot at the cosy quay at Tiessenkai, we will set off for a day trip to the Kiel Bight. Passing the greenish-white Friedrichsort lighthouse, we will see the Naval Memorial of Laboe on our starboard side.

Right next to it, we will spot the former submarine U 995, which from this perspective sits impressively on the beach of Laboe. On the opposite bank of the fjord we can see the silhouette of the Olympic center of Schilksee – this is where the Olympic flame burned during the games in 1972.  Soon afterwards, we reach the open Baltic Sea at the Kiel Lighthouse. Before nightfall, we will decide on where to set anchor in the idyllic green Eckernförde Bay or offshore in the Kiel Fjord.

To round off the cruise, you can enjoy the evening atmosphere on deck with a glass of wine from the onboard bar. In good weather and calm seas, it will be possible to take a final photo tour around the ship with the dinghy. The highlight of the last day of the cruise is a small captain’s dinner in a familiar atmosphere. At the end of this spring cruise, we will fasten the mooring lines in the port of Kiel-Holtenau. Here you will bid farewell to our crew and your fellow travellers, and leave with a sailor’s bag full of memories. Some exciting and eventful days on the river Elbe and the Baltic Sea now lie behind us.

All voyages for Eye of the Wind

Eye of the Wind

Guest berths: 16 Rig: Brig

With incredible amounts of character, Eye of the Wind has all the modern amenities and an authentic interior, with a teak maritime décor. Oozing with maritime history, the opportunity to sail on Eye of the Wind is one in a lifetime. This beautiful ship is as eye-catching as they get and she has even featured in several movies, including White Squall, due to her breath-taking appearance as a 1911 brig.

This windjammer offers luxurious holidays on board, cruising some of the most stunning locations in the world.

Although the ship has a large, capable engine, traditional sailing is naturally the preferred mode of travel so there is plenty to get stuck into on deck. The crew are extremely experienced and ready to teach you the workings of a classic tall ship, so no prior knowledge is necessary. Join the crew at any number of the large maritime festivals they appear at, cruise the European coast, or relish some winter sun and climb aboard for their voyages in the Caribbean – including a transatlantic crossing back from the Caribbean to Portugal.

Thanks to the 6 luxurious cabins, all with ensuite bathrooms, Eye of the Wind can sleep a total of 12 guests ensuring ocean passages can be travelled in true comfort. A large dining area, library and sun deck offer a multitude of different spaces to unwind and to get to know your fellow guests and crew.

Deck plan

More about Eye of the Wind

Life on board

Sailing with Eye of the Wind is an experience that will sit close to your heart as you learn the ways of traditional, authentic sailing and explore breath-taking destinations. Sailing with such a historic vessel is a wonderful privilege and the pride that the crew have for working with such a vessel, is truly inspiring.

Getting involved

With her impressive red sails and traditional square rig, guests are actively encouraged to get involved with all aspects of sailing Eye of the Wind. The crew are friendly, professional multi nationals, who are well-versed in showing guests the ropes, so you don’t need any experience to climb aboard her voyages. There is no expectation to get involved with sailing this magnificent vessel but guests are encouraged to take part in sail hoisting, navigation and taking the helm. A good sense of humour and a sense of adventure is a must and if guests just want to sit back and relax with the harmony of the sails, that’s fine too!

A Typical Day

Most of Eye of the Wind’s voyages are designed to sail by day to explore new destinations and spend the nights in harbour or on a sheltered anchorage. The day to day itinerary is not set in stone so the Captain can make best use of the weather and winds. Once you board, a rough plan for the week will be explained and some basic sail functionings explained too! 

Sailing on the high seas is hungry work, and your appetite will be easily satiated by our excellent on-board kitchen. From morning till evening, the chef will surprise you with varied recipes from his gourmet cookbook. Depending on the sailing season, local food and ingredients often end up in the cooking pot or on the plate. From a continental breakfast to lunch served either at anchor or underway. Dinner and drinks are normally served at around 7pm as you relax with your fellow guests and crew. 

The day is a good balance of authentic traditional sailing with time to explore secluded bays, different cultures, cuisines and history ashore. Down-time is as encouraged as hands-on sailing, with air-conditioned bunks, comfortable lounges and a sun-drenched deck, ensuring that there are plenty of spaces to relax on board.

Sleeping and Relaxation

Thanks to the 6 luxurious cabins, all with ensuite bathrooms, Eye of the Wind can sleep a total of 16 guests ensuring voyages can be travelled in true comfort. A large dining area sits with the galley at deck level offering 360 degree views of the horizon. A library and cosy saloon sit below decks – the perfect place for relaxation and sharing sea-faring tales after a day at sea.

Above decks there’s cushioned bench seating, sun decks and a multitude of different spaces to unwind. Out at sea, you have time for yourself and time to get to know the ship as a place of rest, where you can leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life behind you. Stress has no place on the ocean, and you will find yourself unwinding in harmony with the wind and the sea on board Eye of the Wind.

SAMPLE MENU FOR Eye of the wind

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

• Continental meat platter
• Cheese platter
• yoghurt, fruit salad
• Muesli, cereals, breads and jams
• One day, hot option – fried eggs

ELEVENSES/AFTERNOON CAKE

• Tea, coffee and home-made cakes

LUNCH

• Aubergine and feta tart
• Mediterranean cous cous
• Green salad

DINNER

• Pork cassoulet served with rice
• Coconut, spinach and chickpea curry served with rice
• CAPTAINS DINNER – starter; Bruschetta served with balsamic. Main; Pan-fried salmon served with herb cous cous, pineapple salsa and garlic sauce. (V) option; stuffed pepper with the same sides

DESSERT

• Dark chocolate and orange mousse
• CAPTAINS DINNER – Lemon mascapone cheesecake

What’s included

• All inclusive (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

What’s not included

• Alcohol
• Swim towel
• Waterproofs
• Any 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

FAQ

• What COVID policies are in place for sailing with Eye of the Wind?

  All guests must either be fully vaccinated or have a relevant recovery certificate which is required upon booking.

• Are all meals included?

  Yes. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Hot and Soft drinks are included in your ticket price. Alcohol can be purchased as extra onboard

• Can you cater for dietary needs?

  Yes, please let us know when making your booking.

• What language is spoken on board?

  English and German

• Do I need to tip the crew?

  Tips are not mandatory but are welcomed by the crew!

• What are the sleeping arrangements?

  There are 6 cabins and a total of 16 guest bunks.

• How many bathrooms does she have?

  Each cabin has its own ensuite.

• Is there an age limit?

  No! Please double check for under 8's.

• Is there WIFI?

  No, but you should easily reach 3/4G from the shore, just make sure your phone is set up for international roaming. There may be some locations that will not get good signal.

• Can I charge my phone/camera?

  Yes, 12V sockets are available

• Are there life jackets provided?

  Yes.

• Are Waterproofs provided?

  No, please bring your own.

• Do I need sailing experience?

  Not at all. We give everyone who joins us on board the choice to do as much or as little as they like.

• Will I be seasick?

  Everyone reacts differently but if you are unsure, we recommend taking tablets up to 24 hours travelling.

• Is there air conditioning?

  Yes, Eye of the Wind has air con in each cabin.

Travel Planning

From: Hamburg, Germany

To: Kiel, Germany

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