Isles of Scilly Sailing with Cornish Lugger Grayhound

Your Sailing Area

Isles of Scilly

The Isles of Scilly are by their nature historically part of traditional sail routes. Filled with history, stories and fascinating nature. Isles of Scilly is no different. Its strategic position has served as an important maritime area throughout history. Also for privateers and smuggling luggers like Grayhound back in the 17th century.

The islands also boasts with it’s sub-tropical climate. Making it ideal for a wide range of flora and fauna. Many migrating birds has the Scillies as a favourite stop-over. The sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and dramatic nature invites us for a proper adventure..

After leaving the harbour on the mainland we sail along the beautiful rugged coast of Cornwall and finally head straight into the Atlantic. You will be fully involved in setting sails, reefing, trimming, jibing and steering as we make our way through the waves of the Celtic Sea. The crew will teach and guide you all the way. After 10-12 hrs and about 30 miles we will reach the Isles of Scilly and head for anchorage by one of its 55 islands.

The crystal clear waters and the, hopefully, mild and sunny weather will invite you for a swim or a row ashore and have a relaxed beach stroll. Or a hike to one of the many historical sites and learn more about the rich and dramatic history and archaeology of the Scillies. As we ease into the more simple and peaceful way of life we might enjoy a beer or two onboard or head for the beach and make a barbecue with fresh locally grown food as the sun sets.

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(Please note, if the weather is not in favour then an alternative sailing plan will be decided to explore the wonders of the coast of Cornwall instead.)

Discovering the Islands

After you’ve spotted the classic Cornish landmarks of the Minack Theatre and waved goodbye to Land’s End, some tropical scenery is in store for you on the Isles of Scilly.

These stunning islands feature large stretches of deserted white sandy beaches, dramatic rocky coves, stunning seascapes, amazing archaeological sites, beautiful walks and scenery along miles of coastal and country paths and nature trails. Remember to pack your swimsuits too, as the Isles of Scilly boasts some of the clearest water in the UK which makes for beautiful open water bathing.

The sunny and mild weather means you’ll be able to laze about on the beach with a book or enjoy a quiet walk around one of the many uninhabited islands before returning to the comfort of Pellew for dinner.

Out of the 55 islands, just 5 are inhabited and each has its own distinct character. Tresco is home to a beautiful botanical garden, which has some exotic rare plants unable to grow anywhere else in the UK.  Sampson has been uninhabited since 1855, is known as the haunted island and is steeped in folklore. The beaches of St Martins are some of the best in the world and Brhyer is dotted with lagoons and rocky outcrops. St Agnes is the artisan island bursting with creativity while St Mary’s is the “capital” with the largest population. Dependent on the weather you’ll be able to visit where you like, as each of them is accessible easily by boat.  

Read more about sailing in the Isles of Scilly here.

Wildlife Watching

The Isles of Scilly are a haven for wildlife, especially migratory seabirds who often nest here. It’s a birdwatcher’s dream, so bring your binoculars and your guidebook. You’ll most likely encounter seals somewhere along the way as they love the rocky shores, and you may be lucky enough to be joined by dolphins as you make the sea crossings there or back. Puffins are some of the Scillies most famous inhabitants, but they’re increasingly rare these days so keep those eyes peeled.

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.

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

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.

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
• Waterproofs

What’s not included

• Alcohol
• Wash and/or swim towel
• 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

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.

This voyage will be more than 12miles offshore.

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.

Travel Planning

From: Penzance, Cornwall

To: Customs House Quay, Falmouth

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

GETTING THERE

PENZANCE, CORNWALL

PARKING

The Harbour Long Stay carpark (TR18 2JX) is a 5 minute walk from the quay. It’s recommended that guests purchase a day parking permit using the JustPark app on arrival.

BY RAIL

Penzance train station is about a 10 minute walk from Penzance Harbour. There are direct trains with Great Western Railway from Plymouth, Exeter St Davids, Cardiff Central and London Paddington into Penzance.

BY AIR

Newquay Airport requires taking either a taxi to Redruth Train Station and then the train to the end of the line at Penzance, or a taxi direct to Penzance.

STAY IN PENZANCE

There are plenty of places to stay in Penzance. Try Chapel House Hotel, The Dock Inn or Hotel Penzance.

GETTING HOME

Falmouth, Cornwall

BY RAIL

If you parked in Penzance, take the Maritime line from Falmouth Town Station to Truro Station. Once there you can change to get to Penzance OR catch direct trains with Great Western Railway to Plymouth, Exeter St Davids, Cardiff Central and London Paddington for onward travel.

Get the Maritime Line to Falmouth Town Station from Truro Station to pick up national connections.

BY AIR

Newquay Airport is about an hour taxi ride from Falmouth.

STAY IN FALMOUTH

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