Falmouth Classics & Sea Shanty Sailing

Your adventure sailing holiday aboard Maybe will begin in the harbour town of Falmouth right at the heart of the annual Falmouth Classics Regatta

Setting the sails

This weekend sees the famous Falmouth Classics Regatta with Maybe offering one of the best vantage points for taking part and watching the fabulous flotilla of classic boats sail in and around the harbour.

Falmouth Classics began in the early 1980s and has since become one of Falmouth’s most popular weekends. Attracting people from all over the world, traditional and classic ships arrive to race in the mouth of the River Fal, Carrick Roads and the beautiful Falmouth Bay. From classic yachts to traditional luggers – the harbour is filled with beautiful classics, exhilarating races and a fascinating parade of sail. See Falmouth Classics for its full sailing programme and weekend itinerary.

 

Life at Sea

Life at sea is never predictable, and exactly where you explore with Maybe will be decided on the wind and tide. If you’re new to sailing, don’t worry – the crew will guide you in exactly what to do, even if you’ve never stepped foot on a boat before. Sailing with Maybe is an experience you won’t forget! A beautifully restored classic tall ship, get involved with hoisting sails and being on hand to tack and jibe.

This voyage is perfect for those who want to get to grips with classic yacht sailing in sheltered waters and soak up the diversity of Cornwall’s coastline. No experience is needed to climb aboard as you get to grips with sailing this traditional vessel.

In the few days after the regatta has finished, take the time to explore along the beautiful Cornish coastline with Maybe. Head up the Helford River exploring the beautiful creeks that have inspired the likes of Daphne du Maurier…and Kylie Minogue. Anchor up on National Trust beaches, visit riverside smuggler’s inns and experience true freedom as the wind fills Maybe’s sails and propels you along this unique and impressive coastline.

If the wind takes you up the coast, discover Place creek beyond St Mawes before continuing up the coast, perhaps even sailing up to the historic port of Fowey before returning back to Falmouth. This is one of the most unique ways to explore the South Coast of Cornwall – and one of the best. Whichever way you head along the Cornish coast, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, birds and plenty of other marine life. You might even fancy a swim in the beautiful Helford river so don’t forget your swimsuit!

Maybe has a dedicated chef onboard to so you don’t have to worry about cooking after a days sailing in the salty sea air. Think locally sourced produce, fresh fish and home-made bread with hearty home-cooked meals and plenty of tea, coffee and cake! Your ticket price includes one glass of wine with your evening meal too.

Your ticket price includes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and soft drinks. Bedding is provided – you just need to bring your own towels.

Simply click “Enquire Now” to reserve your berth for five days whilst you sort your travel plans. No booking form or deposit is required until you are ready to book!

There are currently no voyages scheduled. Please get in touch with the VentureSail team to find out what’s available, or if other upcoming voyages might be suitable.
Call us in the Office on 01872 487288 or email [email protected], and we will be happy to help you find your next adventure!

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Private: Maybe

Guest berths: 8 Rig: Gaff Ketch

Built in 1929, classic boat Maybe is a beautifully shaped 28m gaff ketch. A strong sea-worthy vessel, she is built with extra strength using steel frames, a hardwood hull and teak decking.

She has a rather famous history, once being owned by Jan Jacob Van Rietschoten, father of the flying Dutchman, Cornelis ‘Conny’ Van Rietschoten. Having spent most of her life privately owned sailing around the world, she has been owned by her present owners since 1989.

After a complete overhaul in 2007 and a restoration to her original Gaff rig in 2011, she now spends her summers sailing Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly and winters keeping warm in Spain and Portugal.

Guests are invited to get involved with all aspects of sailing Maybe, from hoisting the sails, taking the helm and even some basic navigation. An onboard chef provides breakfast, lunch, dinner, hot breads and cakes throughout voyages, ensuring you won’t be going hungry after a day on the water!

Read more about Life on board Maybe here.

More about Private: Maybe

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) Generally, alcohol is not included; *One glass of wine is included with your evening meal on leisure voyages (not expedition/crossings)

• Are bedding and towels provided?

  Bedding is provided. Please bring your own towels for swimming and showering

• 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 Cabins(& 1x 6berth Cabin for private charters if needed)

• Are bedding and towels included?

  All bedding is provided but towels are not so please bring your own for showering/swimming

• 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/showers for guest use

• 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 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.

• Is there an age limit?

  We recommend over 8+ years accompanied by an adult on a 1:1 ratio but please check in the office for any under 18's as it can vary from voyage to voyage.

Travel Planning

From: Customs house Quay, Falmouth

To: Customs house Quay, 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.