Bank Holiday Sailing in Cornwall

On this Coastal Exploration we sail along the diverse and beautiful coastline of Cornwall also known as the English Riviera.  As we sail through the day you will be involved in most aspects of navigating the ship while enjoying the natural wonders and viewing picturesque fishing villages from a unique perspective. We find anchorages and explore inlets and harbours in our rowing gigs. Nights are spent at anchor in beautiful calm bays while enjoying delicious local food with a glass of wine or a beer.

This is a perfect sailing voyage for who want to learn about sailing a Cornish Lugger from 1776. The direction of the wind and tide will dictate which way we head. Making sure we get the best possible sailing conditions to sail Grayhound to her fullest potential, just like in the old days.

We set sail from Falmouth and tack out between Pendennis Castle and St Mawes Castle. As we pass St Anthonys head we will know whether the winds will bring us up or down the coast. If we head up we will discover Place Creek beyond St Mawes and pass the highest point of the coast, Dodman Point. Past it we reach the historic clay harbour of Charlestown, drop anchor, row ashore and do some sightseeing. We might visit the the historic port of Fowey, which also happens to be the official homeport of Grayhound! Just beyond are the beautiful National Trust beaches where we drop anchor for the night. Next day we reach the old smugglers town of Polperro. If we arrive in Plymouth we anchor up in the small village of Cawsand where the original Grayhound was built in 1776. Our return along this beautiful stretch of coast offers much more and we will be busy enjoying the richness of nature.

If we head down the coast we could start with a calm cruise up the peaceful Helford river. Further down the coast we reach the lighthouse Lizard (Britain’s most southerly point!).  The Mounts Bay awaits us with the rough and beautiful touch of the Atlantic. Grayhound will get a warm welcome once we drop anchor by the old smuggler town of Penzance. The neighbouring town Mousehole is also worth a visit. Heading back to Falmouth we will have more time to feel the winds of the “Mor Kurnow” (Cornish for English Channel) as she fills the sails of Grayhound.

Either way the wind takes us you will feel the wings of history flap around your ears as the we beat along the dramatic coastal waters of Cornwall in replica of a proper Cornish lugger from 1776, immersed in the beauty of nature.

All voyages for Grayhound

Grayhound

Guest berths: 12 Rig: Lugger

Grayhound is a three-masted, wooden tall ship Lugger who was first launched in 2012. She is a a 5/6th scale replica of the original “Grayhound” who was built in Cornwall in 1776 and used as a Customs Lugger. Under new ownership, she nows resides primarily in Douarnenez, France but certainly still loves to explore the seven seas.

True to her original ancestors, Grayhound has been traditionally built with her rigging the same as you’d find it back in 1776. Her owners relish the opportunity to give guests a true and exhilarating sailing experience, taking them back in time for a truly fascinating sailing holiday adventure. Sailing with Grayhound is a hands-on experience and guests are invited to get involved with all aspects of sailing this unique 18th century style Lugger.

Below decks…

The traditional fit out and use of timber continues but with considered spaces and a few more mod-cons! A communal saloon area sleeps 5 guests centred around an impressive oak table with a further five berths in the shared fore cabin. Each bunk has a privacy curtain. There is an eco toilet onboard and a shower for emergencies but guest showers are taken ashore as much as possible. Life on board is predominantly vegetarian unless meat and fish is caught sustainably whilst sailing!

Read more about what to expect from Life on board here…

Sustainable Sailing

The owners and crew of Grayhound are passionate about sustainable sailing and their impact on the natural world. By harnessing the power of wind, Grayhound reduces engine time, minimising carbon emissions and pollution. Sailing encourages a slower pace, allowing guests to appreciate the journey and the destinations without rushing. Grayhound believes in a promoting a deeper connection with nature, as the rhythmic movement of the boat and the sound of the wind create a sense of serenity with the landscapes around us.

Deck plan

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.

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.

• What language is spoken onboard?

  English

• What are the sleeping arrangements?

  10x single berths in the saloon and the fore cabin. (some can be made into "doubles")

• Do I need to tip the crew?

  Tips are not mandatory but are welcomed by the crew!

• 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. Bring biodegradable wet wipes to keep clean. You will be amazed on how fresh you feel at sea!

• Is there WIFI?

  No, but you should easily be able to reach 3G/4G from the shore.

• Can I charge my phone/Camera?

  Yes

• Are there life jackets provided?

  Yes

• Are Waterproofs provided?

  Yes

• Do I need sailing experience?

  No, absolutely not! Just a lust for adventure.

• 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.

Travel Planning

From: Falmouth

To: Falmouth

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

PARKING:

You can leave your car at any of the Long Stay car parks with a weekly or overnight ticket. You can pay using the JustPark app on your phone which can be easier. Try Church Street TR11 3RQ or The Dell TR11 3HP.

BY RAIL:

There are direct trains with Great Western Railway to Truro from starting routes of Plymouth, Exeter St Davids, Cardiff Central and London Paddington. Once at Truro station you will need to change onto the Maritime line to Falmouth Town Station.

BY AIR:

The quickest way into the county during the spring/summer months, Newquay Airport requires taking either a taxi to Truro Train Station for the onward rail travel, or a taxi direct to Falmouth.

STAY IN FALMOUTH:

There are plenty of places to stay in Falmouth. Try The Chain Locker, Cutty Sark Inn or Seaview Inn.