Spring 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.

As we head west we might visit the famous smugglers town Polperro before we moor up on beautiful National Trust beaches. As we continue down past the historic port of Fowey, which also happens to be the official homeport of Grayhound!

Soon after we reach the historic clay harbour of Charlestown, row ashore and do some sightseeing. With the right winds around the highest point of the coast, Dodman Point, we might discover Place Creek beyond St Mawes and finally anchor up in Falmouth, with its picture-perfect streets, river mouth and bay.  Or find anchorage along the calm and peaceful Trelissick or 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. 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

More about Grayhound

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: Plymouth

To: Falmouth

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

Plymouth

BY RAIL:

Plymouth is the most convenient train stop for the Marina. There are direct trains with Great Western Railway to Plymouth from Penzance, Exeter St Davids, Cardiff Central and London Paddington, and Edinburgh with CrossCountry trains. From their the quickest route to/from the Marina is a 5-10 minute taxi ride.

BY COACH:

You can travel by coach directly with National Express from route starting points of Birmingham, London Victoria, Bristol or Penzance. Or you can travel direct to Plymouth Coach Station with megabus and then get a taxi to your accommodation or the Marina.

STAY IN PLYMOUTH:

There are plenty of places to stay in Plymouth. Try Bistrot Pierre, Duke of Cornwall Hotel or The Imperial.

 

Falmouth

BY RAIL:

There are direct trains with Great Western Railway from Truro to Plymouth, Exeter St Davids, Cardiff Central and London Paddington. Board the train at Falmouth Town Station on the Maritime Line, and change once at Truro station.

BY AIR:

The quickest way in/out of the county during the spring/summer months is flying via Newquay Airport. A taxi to Falmouth is approximately 50 minutes.

STAY IN FALMOUTH:

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