Sailing to the Isles of Scilly

YOUR SAILING AREA

Isles of Scilly

Out of the 55 islands, just 5 are inhabited and each has its own distinct character. From the hustle and bustle of the main island of St Mary’s to the resident seabird colonies on Samson, the Isles of Scilly offers something for all ages, abilities and aspirations. Whether you want to sample the local produce of each island or simply find peace in walking the numerous nature trails, exploring this archipelago by boat is the easiest and most fun way to get around.

The main focus of this sailing adventure is to reach the islands. The wind and weather will determine your route so the skipper and crew will have a better idea of what to expect from the weather as you board. (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.) 

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Scilly Highlights

Think secluded coves, white sandy beaches, rocky sea cliffs and a wide variety of different landscapes – from wild and windswept, to sheltered and dotted with palm trees. The sunny and mild weather means you’ll be able to laze about on the beach, enjoy a quiet walk around one of the many uninhabited islands or take a swim in the clearest of waters before returning to the comfort of Maybe for a hearty home-cooked evening meal.

Tresco is home to a beautiful botanical garden, which has some exotic rare plants unable to grow anywhere else in the UK.  The beaches of St Martins are some of the best in the world and Bryher is dotted with blue lagoons and rocky outcrops. St Agnes is the art capital of the Scillies with artists studio and artisan cafe’s dotted along the village roads. Dependent on the weather you’ll be able to visit where you like, as each of them are accessible easily by boat. 

Read more about sailing in the Isles of Scilly over on our destinations page.

Wonderful Wildlife

The Isles of Scilly are a haven for wildlife, especially migratory seabirds who often nest here. 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 on the voyage to or from Penzance. Puffins are some of the Scillies’ most famous inhabitants, but they’re increasingly rare these days so keep those eyes peeled. 

All voyages for Maybe

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. 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.

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.

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.

Life on board Maybe

Sailing with classic boat Maybe is certainly an enjoyable, hands-on experience and guests are encouraged to get involved with all aspects of sailing this magnificent tall ship. With private cabins and generous communal spaces below decks, she’s perfect for solo travellers, couples or even family groups. The crew are well versed in sailing Maybe with her season running skippered charter holidays and taking Youth Sail training voyages to share this rich maritime history with the younger generation.

Getting Involved

From hoisting the sails to taking the helm, the friendly and knowledgable crew are always on hand to show you the ropes. 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.

Sleeping, Eating & Relaxation

Maybe has a dedicated chef onboard too 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.

Below decks is a nod to the traditional tall ship era with decorative wooden panelling throughout. A generous saloon area is great for eating hearty home-cooked meals, sharing sea faring tales or maybe a game of cards with your fellow crew. There are three twin bunk cabins and a fourth 4-person cabin that all share a large shower/toilet.

Read more about what to expect from a typical day and life onboard Maybe.

Kit list

Maybe has limited space within the cabin with no storage for rigid cases so please bring your items in a soft bag or rucksack.

We recommend a travelling light principal with lots of lightweight, easy drying layers. Below is list of recommended items, these are not mandatory and those that have sailed before may have their own preferences!

• Fingerless gloves for hoisting sails (sailing or cycling are best)
• Walking boots/shoes for onshore & light shoes/trainers (with good grip)
•  Waterproof boots or wellington boots (dependent on weather forecast)
• Swimsuit and swim towel (optional) 
• Lightweight, quick-dry clothes (base layers, fleece and synthetic tops are both lightweight and quick-drying!)

It can be quite a few degrees colder out at sea so please bring lots of layers even if the forecast seems like a warm week!

• Warm, windproof and waterproof coat and trousers
• Sun cream (please consider reef safe, eco products where possible)
• Sunglasses and a warm hat/cap
• Small personal first aid kit and any medication you may need
• Camera/binoculars 
• Personal wash kit (please consider reef safe, eco products where possible)
• Charging cables for personal devices
• A good book to read!
• Consider a small backpack/bag for onshore exploring

Travel Documents

•  Please assume full responsibility for checking and verifying any and all passport, visa, vaccination, or other entry requirements to the country if/as required.

What’s included

• All inclusive meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks)
• Water & Hot Drinks
• All bedding (pillow, sheets & duvet)
• Wash Towel
• Full crew plus tuition
• Marina and fuel fees
• All tender trips to and fro the boat
• Lifejacket
• Use of stand-up paddle-board

What’s not included

• Alcohol
• Swim towels
• 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)

• Can you cater for dietary needs?

  Yes, please let us know when making your booking.

• Are there any added extras?

  There's an honesty bar for soft drinks and alcohol.

• What are the sleeping arrangements?

  4x twin cabins, each has storage and a sink.

• Is there a porthole in my cabin?

  All cabins have deck hatches.

• How many toilet/showers does she have?

  There are 2 toilets/showers for guest use.

• Are bedding and towels provided?

  Bedding and towels are provided. Please bring your own towels for swimming.

• 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, Maybe does not have laundry on board.

• Is there heating on board?

  Yes.

• 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 conforms 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 UK 3 pin plug in each cabin.

• What is the currency on board?

  GBP - pounds sterling.

• Are there life jackets provided?

  Yes.

• How do I get on and off the boat?

  Maybe is often at anchor so you'll need to be comfortable climbing in and out of the tender dinghy and climbing up the boats step ladder over the gunwale - there will always be a crew member to steady.

• Are waterproofs provided?

  Yes, for use on the boat only. Please bring a light weight waterproof if needed for going ashore.

• Do I need sailing experience?

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

• Does the boat have any water toys?

  Yes, there is a stand-up paddle board for guests to use free of charge.

• 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: Penzance Harbour

To: Penzance Harbour

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.