SAIL THE FRENCH COAST with Irene; FESTIVAL TEMPS FÊTE

Join historic tall ship Irene in the Cornish maritime port of Falmouth before hoisting the sails to leave one Celtic coast for another as you set a southerly course to Brittany. This voyage sees you enjoy the French sailing festival in Douarnenez and if anyone knows how to combine sailing, merriment and music for a holiday to remember – it’s definitely the French!

Life at sea

After your tour and safety briefing, you’ll start your adventure holiday leaving Falmouth as you prepare to cross the English Channel. Irene requires no previous sailing experience to jump aboard – only a lust for adventure! Under the guidance of her fully trained crew, you are invited to get actively involved in all aspects of sailing Irene. From hoisting her sails, trimming the ropes, taking the helm and getting her ready for anchor – this truly is a hand-on sailing holiday perfect for those that want to learn more about life aboard a historic classic boat. Irene has been sailing British waters for over 100 years! Her first cargo voyage to Penzance was recorded in 1907 so she is certainly no stranger to this beautiful coastline.

Breton Sailing

Festival Temps Fête in Douarnenez is a beautiful collection of classic boats from all over the world and is a haven for traditional wooden ship lovers. It also attracts an array of photographers and artists who want to immerse themselves within working boats and the beauty of Douarnenez and its two ports. Whilst one is the old fishing port, Rosmeur, there is another with wooden wharves lined with harbour-side bars and restaurants in the medieval town. Douarnenez Festival also offers plenty of races, sailing re-enactments and other activities on the water. The cobbled streets are perfect to explore the music, local shops and cuisine whilst reminiscing of a time when the wooden boats provided the town with trade as they docked in the port.

Take part in the festival with Irene as you join friendly races, share sea tales on land and spend time exploring this beautiful coastline.

Read more about what to expect from Life onboard Irene here.

Wherever the winds take you, Irene provides the perfect base for experiencing traditional tall ship sailing. Great for solo travellers, couples and even available for private charter, jump aboard and feel the magic of this historic vessel as she glides through this beautiful archipelago.

All voyages for Private: Irene

Private: Irene

Guest berths: 10 Rig: Ketch

From an Edwardian cargo vessel to floating family home and now a chartered sailing vessel, Irene’s had a fascinating life. She’s been the darling of the silver screen, sank in the Caribbean, towed across the Atlantic and re-built in Cornwall. Now she earns her keep sailing guests around the Cornish coast and the Isles of Scilly. Her most recent re-fit has seen the addition of all the mod-cons and safety equipment you’d expect of a modern day charter boat. She carries a crew of professional mariners who love sharing their passion for this old lady of the seas.

From sailing the Cornish coast to exploring the beautiful archipelago of the Scilly Isles, Irene’s sailing holidays range from weekend breaks to week-long explorations taking in some of the most stunning sailing destinations in the UK.  From beginners to old hands there’s something to suit all experiences and whether you’re solo travellers or a couple, Irene certainly welcomes all.

Traditionally rigged with a full time crew, Irene encourages guests to actively involved in all aspects of sailing. From taking the helm, hoisting the sails and general rope work, the crew are well versed in taking complete novices and guiding them through all they need to know to make the most of their tall ship sailing holiday. Below decks she has been well-considered with private ensuite cabins and even a luxury state room with its own lounge area, double bed and bathroom. Her generous saloon has space for relaxing, ample dining space for those hearty home-cooked meals after a day in the sea air and a generous galley where the onboard cook will keep you fed from start to finish.

Read more here about what to expect from Life onboard Irene.

More about Private: Irene

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?

  Yes, please let us know when making your booking.

• What language is spoken onboard?

  English

• What are the sleeping arrangements?

  4x twin ensuite cabins, 1x state

• Do I need to tip the crew?

  Tips are not mandatory but are welcomed by the crew!

• How many toilet/showers does she have?

  5

• Is there WIFI?

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

• Can I charge my phone/Camera?

  Yes.

• Is there an age limit?

  No, children are fine as long as parents assume full responsibility and they bring their own dated, inflatable lifejacket.

• Are there life jackets provided?

  Yes. But not children's ones, they must be brought with you.

• Are Waterproofs provided?

  No

• Do I need sailing experience?

  No, absolutely not! Just a lust for adventure and a want to get actively involved.

• 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.

• Church Street
• The Quarry
• The Dell

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
• Seaview Inn