Atlantic Crossing with Tall Ship Florette

Ocean passages can bring conditions fit for only the boldest adventurers seeking the ultimate challenge. This hands-on sailing adventure is perfect for those wanting to experience life on a traditionally rigged tall ship and tuck some sea miles under their belt. We recommend some previous experience of time on the water and some time spent on a boat. Whether that’s a taster sailing weekend, dinghy sailing club or weekends on your grandparents boat, once we have left port, there is no turning back!

The soft, steady up and down of the ship’s hull in the waves, the expanse of the sea, and the gentle creaking of the rigging are the perfect ingredients for a relaxing and at the same time, adventurous holiday experience. 

After joining on the Caribbean island of Martinique, our next stop will be the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores on the island of Faial in the harbour of Horta.  A popular destination for sailors on Atlantic crossings to and fro the Caribbean, the archipelago of the Azores is an untouched tourist destination far away from the usual holiday hustle and bustle. With so many islands and anchorages to choose from, exploring the Azores under sail is certainly the best way to see as much as possible with ease. The islands are still mostly underdeveloped from resorts and retain their traditional Portuguese island charm. We’ll spend a week exploring the Azores where the ticket price includes Bed and Breakfast. For the rest of the voyage whilst sailing the Atlantic, the ticket price is full board.

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Getting involved

The professional and experienced crew will teach you everything you need to know as you will sail with and become part of the crew, hoisting sails, taking the helm and getting involved with all aspects of sailing a tall ship. Florette will run a 3 tier watch system throughout the voyage with all guests and crew. You’ll never be without a crew member and the watch system will be worked out once everyone has boarded to gauge guest abilities.

From plotting our route on the chart to cooking together, some celestial navigation skills, hoisting and trimming sails, and rope work and repairs, there is always something for everyone to do while on watch. The rest of the time is free to enjoy the inky black of the night sky, reading a book or three or playing cards together; the ocean gives guests the chance to switch off from the demands of the modern world and fill their souls with vitamin-Sea.

Sailing by the stars

Far from land, miles into the open ocean, you’ll see the night sky as you have never seen it before. The stars light the sky as we sail away from any man-made light pollution creating a truly spectacular sight. Although each boat certainly has all the modern GPS equipment, there will likely be the chance to try your hand at celestial navigation, using the stars to plot your position and guide your route! An age old skill used by sailing ancestors of years gone-by.

Weather

Part of the beauty of an ocean-going adventure is experiencing all the elements. From wind, rain and sun, we will certainly see them all. Whatever comes our way, the crew will use weather radar technology to plan our route as best they can to ensure we cover the most miles as safely as possible. Expect strong winds and big waves, perfect sailing to glassy seas with not a breath of wind and everything in-between.

Read more about Atlantic Sailing here.

LIFE ON BOARD

AUTHENTIC TALL SHIP SAILING

Florette and her crew always try to combine traditional classic sailing while immersing guests in the natural landscapes ashore. Florette invites you to get involved with her traditional sailing. With an original rig, it is certainly an all-hands on deck approach  – which is surely part of the magic to this adventure sailing holiday. 

Sailing Florette is a true family affair. Captain Ron is the 2nd generation to run and sail Florette with his family after his parents bought the boat back in the 70’s. Ron was brought up on the boat, as he is now doing with his family. Alongside Ron and his wife Nicole, Florette is fully crewed with experienced and knowledgeable sailors. Nicole is also the boats chef, cooking up fabulous cuisine, so you won’t be going hungry after a day of sailing and exploring.

HAVE FUN!

Florette commands attention wherever she sails with her traditional wooden hull, decoratively carved transom and her impressive sail rig. Sailing with her is part of the magic of this adventure holiday and is a huge part of the experience. There is also fishing gear available which is used to catch fresh fish for supper!

Sleeping and Relaxation

Florette is one of the larger boats in our fleet so she has ample space both above and below decks. Her Captain and family live-aboard but they have their own separate quarters. Guests can enjoy private cabins in combinations of 2-3 berth bunks. All cabins share a total of four toilets and three showers with another shower on deck for a rinse off after some sea swimming. For Atlantic crossings and Caribbean voyages only, under 30’s have the chance for a true authentic pirate experience to stay in a hammock! Each hammock will be allocated a seamans chest for any belongings and will strung up in the saloon between 9pm and 8am. 

A generous saloon, bar and eating area sit below decks with a traditional wooden finish. Above decks there is a large cushioned area for relaxation, sun-bathing or sleeping beneath the stars (bring your own sleeping bag if this is something you fancy!). An alfresco dining area sits mid-ships, perfect for lunches in the sun or dinners at sunset. 

Please check the What’s included tab for a breakdown of the ticket price and the board cash.