Offshore Atlantic Sailing the Azores to the UK

Vessel: Grayhound
Where: Atlantic Sailing
Duration: 14 days

Embark: Horta, Faial, Azores - 4 August 2026, 08:00
Disembark: Plymouth, Devon, UK - 17 August 2026, 13:00

Prices from
£6,695.00€7,699.25 Per Person.
View tickets and availability

Experience an ocean-crossing sailing adventure from the Azores to the coasts of Devon on lugger Grayhound!

An adventure sailing holiday across an ocean is certainly one that leaves life-long memories. Sail from the Atlantic archipelago of the Azores, across the Atlantic to the Devon coastal port of Plymouth.

This voyage is perfect for those adventure-seekers, looking for a new experience of existing sailors wanting to push their skills! Couples and solo travellers alike are welcomed onboard as part of the crew, hoisting, cooking and star-gazing together.

Full Crew included
Hands-on sailing
Bucket list experience
Full Board
OPEN WATER SAILING
Star gazing

Your Sailing Area

Atlantic Sailing – Azores to Plymouth

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. 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. 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 grandparent’s boat, there is no turning back once we have left port!

As you sail across the Bay of Biscay, you’ll be in the heart of one of Europe’s most spectacular seascapes. This region is known for its diverse marine life, so keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins and majestic whales breaking the surface. You might even spot a school of flying fish darting across the water, adding an extra layer of enchantment to your voyage.

Getting involved

Grayhound’s 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. Grayhound will run a 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.

LIFE ON BOARD

One of traditional hands-on sailing and sustainable adventure travel. Sailing with Cornish Lugger Grayhound is perfect for those looking to get to grips with sailing a traditionally rigged, classic wooden vessel.

SUSTAINABLE SAILING

Grayhound is run and sailed as sustainably as possible, with a care for the environment and the natural marine world at the forefront of everything she does. From an adopted vegetarian menu (unless of course, it can be sustainably fished or hunted), to traditional tender gigs rowed by the crew, it’s clear to see that sustainable travel and adventure is an important part of sailing with Grayhound.

Sailed with a full time crew, Grayhound mixes her sailing season with sheltered coastal sailing, open water sailing and some aptly named “smugglers runs”. Although she has a permanent crew, guests are encouraged to get involved to hoist the sails by hand and to feel the power of the wind in the tiller. Learn basic rope and knot work or even learn to row in the gig tenders – another nod to the ship’s ancestral history!

SLEEPING AND RELAXATION

A pilot house at deck level gives a versatile space from chart navigation, daytime shelter if needed and the perfect place for a cosy night watch.

Below decks there is a collection of various berths tucked into the hull, with four bunks situated off the main saloon and a further six berth bunks in the fore. The spaces are generous and there are two toilets on board for guests. There is a shower for emergencies but guests are encouraged to use marina showers or even consider jumping in the sea – an invigorating, free bath!

There is a communal eating area with a wide hatch so guests can star-gaze while eating deliciously cooked food. In warmer climates, guests and crew can eat alfresco up on the generous deck.

EAT

The galley is at the heart of both Grayhound itself and her owners.

Designed to be an efficient and inspiring workspace for the chef making meals a highlight of the voyage. Grayhound has a great tradition of using fresh produce and of foraging, producing wholesome meals inspired by local cuisine and maritime traditions. She serves only healthy, organic, vegetarian food. For many good reasons the meals on the ship are mostly vegetarian (unless it is caught by line from the boat!). Everything is cooked onboard by our excellent chef using regional and organic produce wherever possible.

Things to note

Sailing vs Shoretime

Once you have left the Azores, there will up to 20 consecutive days at Sea.

Nightwatches?

Yes, there will be a continuous watch system running throughout the voyage with guests and crew.

FAQ

Are all meals included?
Yes, all meals on board are included in the price. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner and hot drinks) Alcohol is not included.
Can you cater for dietary needs?
We are primarily a vegetarian (not vegan) ship. Everything is cooked onboard by our excellent chef using regional and organic produce wherever possible. We have a well-equipped galley where we cook healthy, tasty and sustainable food.
Are there any added extras?
There's an honesty bar for soft drinks and alcohol or you can bring your own.
What are the sleeping arrangements?
10x single berths split between the saloon and fore cabin. Some bunks can be made into "doubles" and all berths are allocated communally once everyone is aboard. All bunks have a privacy curtain.
Is there a porthole in my berth?
Both the saloon and fore cabin have deck hatches for natural light.
How many toilet/showers does she have?
2 toilets. There is a shower on board but we use it as little as possible because we have a limited water supply. We tend to use the showers ashore in the marinas that we visit. There is plenty of seawater for bucket-showers on deck or for a nice morning swim around the ship.
Are bedding and towels included?
All bedding is provided but please bring towels.
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, Grayhound does not have laundry on board.
Is there heating onboard?
Yes, there is a multi fuel burner.
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. Please make sure you have international roaming set up on your data plan.
Can I charge my phone/Camera?
Yes. There are USB and 220v sockets in the Pilot house and galley.
What is the currency on board?
GBP - pounds sterling
Are there life jackets provided?
Yes
How do I get on and off the boat?
Grayhound 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 gunwale - there will always be a crew member to steady.
Are Waterproofs provided?
Yes - provided for all guests. IMAX - Explorer Ocean Equipment - coat & Trousers. This can be taken onshore as well.
Do I need sailing experience?
No, absolutely not! Just a lust for adventure.
Does the boat have any water toys?
There are long boat tenders for rowing practice and coastal exploring!
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?
Young children can join some voyages but this varies so please check with the office first. There is no maximum age limit as long as guests are mobile and fit.

Guest Reviews

"This was a really brilliant trip. I really like Grayhound and with the Lugger rig there is always plenty to do, and enough sails to keep us sailing even in the lightest airs... The crew were lovely and had a good mix of experience and fun. Eating Veggie for the whole trip was a new one for me but worked very well due to our excellent cook. You need to big this up a bit more in the blurb, because it could be a bit of a turn off for us carnivores!"Mr Williams

I had an incredible trip across the channel to Brittany, around the beautiful coast and back again with the crew of Grayhound. Watched the sun rise and set over the sea, saw dolphins come and swim alongside us, had lots of laughs, fantastic food and all round good company throughout. An unforgettable 10 days, would highly recommend!Ashley - 2022