Tall Ship Taster Sailing in Portugal

YOUR SAILING AREA

Algarve, Portugal

Your adventure sailing taster in Portugal will not run a fixed itinerary to make best use of the wind but there are plenty of traditional harbours and natural wonders to explore. Explore the fascinating caves and cliff formations of the Algarve region, spending time walking the dramatic coastline and taking the boats paddle-boards to discover caves off the beaten track.

The world famous Benagil Cave is located in the district of Lagos and was named one of the Top 10 Coolest Caves by Huffington Post in 2014. It’s not accessible by foot and swimming out to it would be very dangerous, so entry is only possible by boat – making it the perfect spot for Maybe to anchor up and explore.

This four day taster sailing is a great experience to include as part of a holiday to explore the Southern region of Portugal. This voyage has something for everyone from couples, solo travellers to families – jump aboard and experience the very best of the Algarve under sail.

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.

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.

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.

What’s included

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

What’s not included

• Alcohol
• Wash and/or 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 not 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) 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: Portimao

To: Portimao

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

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BY AIR:

Faro Airport requires taking a 45-50 minute taxi ride to [Doca Pesca] Parchal. This could cost in the region of £60-£75. This is much easier than multiple changes on public transport. You can fly direct to Faro from a number of airports in England. 

STAY IN PORTIMAO:

There are plenty of places to stay in Portimao. Try Colina Da Lapa & Villas, Flor da Rocha or Quinta Aida Cottages and B&B Suites.