Flying Dutchman from the bowsprit under sail
Flying Dutchman guests onboard raising the sails pulling ropes
Scotland Loch ness loch
New Flying Dutchman Sailing towards Oban, Hebrides, Scotland
Flying Dutchman skipper Aries at the helm
Flying Dutchman under sail
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Offshore Sailing from Amsterdam to Inverness

Embark: Amsterdam, Netherlands22 March 2027, 18:00
Disembark: Inverness, Scotland31 March 2027, 10:00
Vessel: Flying Dutchman
Where: Amsterdam/Scotland
Duration: 10 days / 9 nights
Group Size: 22
Activity: Level 2
i
Feefo logo
Berths available
Prices from
£1,285.00€1,445.00
per person
Board type: Half Board
Ticket options & book

Sail with the Flying Dutchman from Amsterdam to the Scottish coast as you visit Holy island along the way.

Join magnificent classic tall ship the Flying Dutchman for an offshore sailing experience from Amsterdam to the Scottish port of Inverness.

Traditionally rigged, the Flying Dutchman’s crew love to share their maritime knowledge and their love of traditional sailing with guests. The voyage is great for those with a lust for adventure looking to fully immerse themselves into the rhythms of the sea on the open water with a tall ship.

  • Fully crewed tall ship
  • Open water sailing
  • Private ensuite cabins
  • Perfect for adventurers
  • Half-board
  • Hands-on Sailing
decorative underline

Need some help?
Talk to the team

Telephone: +44 (0)1872 487288
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp: +44 7804 472592

YOUR SAILING AREA

EXPEDITION SAILING

This offshore sailing holiday adventure is perfect for those wanting to gain sea miles and experience more exposure with longer passages at sea. The soft, steady up and down of the ship’s hull in the waves, the expanse of the sea, and the permanent gentle creaking of the rigging are the perfect ingredients for a relaxing and at the same time, adventurous holiday experience.

After receiving safety instructions and an introduction to sailing from the ship’s crew, you’ll be all set to get hoisting the sails. Guests are invited to get involved with all aspects of sailing this traditional vessel. From hoisting the sails, talking the helm, basic navigation, and rope-work, the professional and friendly crew are well-versed in providing a relaxed and safe environment in which to learn all aspects of traditional sailing.

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Amsterdam to Inverness

Hop aboard the Flying Dutchman at 6pm and after an introduction to the crew, dinner will be served at 7pm where you can get to know your fellow guests. (If you are arriving into Amsterdam earlier, just let the boat know and you can drop your luggage off and spend some time exploring.)

At first light you’ll set the sails with the crew as you discuss what route the weather will take the Flying Dutchman. Depending on the wind, we may sail into the evening to cover the 220nm to the small town Whitby. With a rich history dating back to the middle ages, its fishing industry is still active and the town gives a nice chance to stretch our legs.

If the wind is in our favour, we will look to stop on Holy Island, a very special island on the border with England. Connected to the mainland with a causeway submerged at high tide, the ancient island’s name is Lindisfarne – now the name of the monastery on the island. The monastery was founded around 635 by the Irish monk Aiden Lindesfarne, who came from the Scottish island of Iona. In 793, the monastery was plundered by Vikings and in the southeastern corner of the island, the restored 16th-century Lindisfarne Castle is well worth a visit.

Our next port of call should be the beautiful harbour of Stonehaven, known for the nearby castle of Dunnottar. Voted the most beautiful seaside town in Scotland, Stonehaven makes for a lovely anchorage with the Flying Dutchman.

Our last stop will be the port of Inverness – a beautiful Scottish city with the wonders of the highlands at your doorstep. Visit Inverness Castle and St. Andrew’s Cathedral, amble along the banks of the River Ness, or cross the suspension bridge for rest and relaxation in the Ness Islands.

Things to note
Sailing vs Shore time
This voyage will see longer hours under sail on the open water but there will be opportunities to stop along the East coast of the UK.
Nightwatches?
There will be a watch system running if guests want to take part - we believe it's part of the adventure on an offshore sailing voyage!

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.

Life Onboard the Flying Dutchman

One of traditional sailing, sea-faring tales and breath-taking destinations, sailing with the Flying Dutchman is a far cry from its ancestral name. Although a traditionally rigged vessel with an authentic wooden boat feel throughout, the Flying Dutchman has been fitted as a charter vessel to a high, modern standard – providing guests with an authentic sailing experience while ensuring comfort and mod-cons are not forgotten.

Enjoy a balance of traditional sailing, harnessing the power of the wind, and exploring ashore in hard-to-reach locations away from the tourist hustle and bustle. 

Offering sailing tall ship holidays in Scotland and the Hebrides, the Flying Dutchman aims to give guests a traditional tall ship adventure. Family owned and operated, the Flying Dutchman is perfect for solo travellers, couples or older families looking for that classic tall ship experience, making memories that will certainly last a lifetime.

Getting Involved

The crew encourage guests to get involved with all aspects of sailing this fascinating schooner. She is traditionally rigged but also has a winch system, so it can be sailed comfortably by the crew if guests simply want to put their feet up and enjoy the views! From hoisting the sails, basic rope work and even some simple navigation skills, you can get involved as much or as little as you’d like.  Once the sails are up, you can enjoy the beauty of silently crossing the ocean using just the power of the wind.

Sleeping, eating and Relaxation

A designated chef ensures you’re well fed and looked after after a day of sailing the Scottish Seas. Breakfast, lunch, snacks, and soft and hot drinks are all included in the half-board ticket price. Evening meals aboard are not included (unless you are tucked up in a secluded anchorage!), and this is done so that guests can experience true Scottish hospitality ashore and support the local economy while enjoying sustainable, local produce.

The main saloon is a generous space with plenty of portholes, providing a comfortable area with lots of natural light. A combination of sofas and tables makes it a great communal area to get to know your fellow guests and enjoy meals inside. There is also a well-stocked bar within the saloon area. She has ten ensuite twin cabins below decks, and all cabins have air conditioning or heating. All bedding and towels are provided.

The rear deck is layered with wood, emphasising the traditional atmosphere of the ship. On the main deck, there are 3 different tables and couches to sit on. This area is covered to protect the guests from the rain. This offers the opportunity to stay outside and eat your dinner under the stars.

 

What’s included

The Flying Dutchman works on a half board basis to give guests a chance to experience the local cuisine. All breakfasts, tea, coffee and juice are included in the ticket price. Lunch and evening meals will be a 50/50 split of eating onboard (included in the ticket price) and eating ashore (not included in the ticket price). If the Flying Dutchman is not able to go ashore for any reason (weather related), guests will be able to eat onboard!

  • All bedding (pillow, sheets & duvet) and wash towel
  • Full crew plus tuition
  • Marina and fuel fees
  • All tender trips to and fro the boat
  • Lifejacket

What’s not included

  • Eating ashore
  • Waterproofs
  • 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

Kit list

The Flying Dutchman has limited space for possessions, so please be considerate and travel as light as possible. Each bunk is allocated a storage chest to store your items, but there is 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 a list of recommended items, these are not mandatory and those who have sailed before may have their preferences!

  • Fingerless gloves for hoisting sails (sailing or cycling are best)
  • Walking boots/shoes for onshore & light shoes/trainers (with good grip)
  • Please consider waterproof sailing boots
  • Flip-flops or crocs for wet room showering
  • 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 use reef-safe, eco products where possible)
  • Sunglasses and a warm hat/cap
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Small personal first aid kit and any medication you may need
  • Camera/binoculars 
  • Personal wash kit (please use reef-safe, eco products where possible)
  • Smidge’ midge repellent – only necessary when sailing in Scotland
  • Sleep masks and/or earplugs! (optional)
  • 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 passport, visa, vaccination, or other entry requirements to the country if/as required.

From: Amsterdam, Netherlands

To: Inverness, Scotland

GETTING THERE

Amsterdam
BY RAIL

Get the Eurostar direct to Amsterdam Central from London St Pancras International which takes about 4 hours.

BY AIR

There are direct flights running to Amsterdam daily from most major UK airports.
Amsterdam Airport (AMS) is about a 20 minute train journey operated by Dutch Railways (NS) from the city centre.

GETTING HOME

Inverness
BY RAIL

You can travel by rail overnight on the Caledonian Sleeper to London Euston from Inverness.
Inverness station is right in the town centre with easy travel links from the ScotRail mainline. The station is about a ten minute walk from the Marina.

BY COACH

You can travel by coach from various main hubs in Scotland from the rest of the UK with National Express  and megabus. You will first need to catch a bus from Inverness operated by Scottish Citylink.

BY AIR

Direct flights go from Inverness Airport (INV) to London Luton (LTN), London Gatwick (LGW) and Bristol (BRS) with easyJet, London Heathrow (LHR) with British Airways and Manchester (MAN) and Birmingham (BHX) with Logan Air and British Airways.

Inverness Airport is a 15 minute taxi ride from the Wharf, or catch the No.11 bus from the town bus station which takes about 50 minutes.

Flying Dutchman

Guest berths: 24 Rig: Schooner

The Flying Dutchman has a vast 480m² sail area to propel her through the water. The experienced crew will take care of everything aboard; however, if guests wish, they are welcome to join the crew, hoisting the sails or taking the helm. She’s perfect for solo travellers and couples of all ages and abilities.

The main saloon is a generous space with plenty of portholes providing a comfortable area with lots of natural light. A combination of sofas and tables makes it a great communal space to get to know your fellow guests and enjoy meals inside. There is also a well-stocked bar within the saloon area. Below decks, there are ten ensuite cabins for guests with bunk beds, all with heating and air-conditioning.

On the main deck, there are three different tables and couches to sit on; this area is covered to protect the guests from the rain. This offers the opportunity to stay outside and eat your dinner under the stars.

Deck plan

The flying dutchman ship deck plan information

Berths on board

Single berth in shared Twin Cabin Ensuite: Two single bunk berths, and an ensuite.

Single berth in shared Twin Plus Ensuite Cabin: Two single bunk berths, and an ensuite. The Plus cabin has a little more floor space.

Twin Cabin Ensuite (solo occupancy): Private cabin for one person. Two single bunk berths, and an ensuite.

More about Flying Dutchman

Are all meals included?

Breakfast & soft/hot drinks are included. Lunch and evening meals will be a 50/50 split of eating onboard (included) & eating ashore (not included).

Can you cater for dietary needs?

We can cater for Vegetarians only.

Are there any added extra's?

Lunch and evening meals will be a 50/50 split of eating onboard (included) & eating ashore (not included). Any onshore excursion fees are not included. There is a £90pp per week cash payment onboard for guests, if they would like to serve themselves beer & wine, snacks, soft drinks, that are set out in the saloon for guests each day. This is optional and cash only. Guests then wash up anything from these snacks themselves. This is instead of an honesty bar.

What are the sleeping arrangements?

11x twin ensuite cabins

Is there a porthole in my cabin?

Yes, every cabin has a porthole.

How many toilet/showers does she have?

11

Are bedding and towels included?

All bedding and a towel is included but please bring your own swim towels (if needed). Micro-fibres are a great lightweight, quick-drying alternative.

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, the Flying Dutchman does not have laundry on board.

Is there heating/air conditioning onboard?

Yes.

Do I need to tip the crew?

Tips are not mandatory but very much appreciated.

What language is spoken onboard?

German/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 220v sockets in every cabin so please bring a 2pin EU adaptor.

What is the currency on board?

Euros.

Are there life jackets provided?

Yes.

How do I get on and off the boat?

The Flying Dutchman 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?

No, please bring your own.

Do I need sailing experience?

No, absolutely not! Just a lust for adventure.

Does the boat have any water toys?

Flying Dutchman has some fishing rods that are available for guests to use.

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?

Over 18's only - no upper age limit, only one rule: You must be able to climb stairs. 16 years old with a mature guardian is sometimes possible.

Voyage
Set Sail
Days
Cost p/p
18 Oct 2026
8 days Days
£1,135.00€1,295.00
25 Oct 2026
10 days Days
£1,210.00€1,345.00
22 Mar 2027
10 days Days
£1,285.00€1,445.00
1 Apr 2027
8 days Days
£1,235.00€1,385.00
9 Apr 2027
8 days Days
£1,235.00€1,295.00
9 May 2027
8 days Days
£1,235.00€1,295.00
17 Oct 2027
8 days Days
£1,235.00€1,385.00
24 Oct 2027
10 days Days
£1,285.00€1,445.00

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