Caribbean Christmas Onboard a Tall Ship: Barbados to St Lucia

YOUR SAILING AREA

Barbados to St Lucia

The tropical island paradise of Barbados is well known for its brilliant turquoise waters, framing powdery white, sandy shores with colourful timber houses lining the streets. The UNESCO World Heritage capital of Bridgetown, built in the 17th century, is a fine example of British colonial architecture. It’s well worth spending some time exploring here before joining the tall ship Blue Clipper for your Caribbean sailing adventure.

Blue Clipper will be moored or anchored in the harbour of Bridgetown on the island of Barbados, ready to welcome guests aboard. As with all our sailing holidays, Blue Clipper will make the most of the Caribbean trade winds, sailing and island hopping from Barbados to St Lucia. The list of islands below is to give an idea of what awaits your Caribbean sailing holiday, but the wind will always dictate the route, and there are just too many islands to make one list!

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St Vincent and the Grenadines 

The Grenadines are a chain of tiny idyllic islands providing a plethora of picturesque anchorages, from dense jungle, rolling hills and black volcanic sandy beaches. Discover the set used for the Pirates of the Caribbean movie and explore waterfalls just a short walk from the beach. Spend some time here snorkelling, swimming and kayaking the coastline full of natural rock formations and archways. Blue Clipper has stand-up paddle boards and a double kayak for guests to use to explore the coastline – (this is included in the ticket price).

St Lucia

The volcanic spires that make the island of St Lucia a spectacular landmark in the Windward Islands and provide a breathtaking anchorage in Piton Bay. The villages dot the coastline are predominantly traditional Caribbean fishing towns, lined with volcanic beaches and great snorkelling and diving opportunities. The island’s interior is home to dense rainforest with varying levels of hiking trails if you fancy walking to gain a dramatic vantage point of the bay!

All voyages for Blue Clipper

Blue Clipper

Guest berths: 12 Rig: Gaff Schooner

Built-in Sweden in 1991, tall ship Blue Clipper is an impressive three-masted gaff rig schooner. With a clipper bow, original teak deck and elegant stern, she mixes a traditional tall ship feel with a relatively modern build giving guests an authentic experience with all the mod cons.

She has spent many years sailing all over the world and currently spends her summers sailing Scotland and the Hebrides, her autumn months heading south to Spain and Portugal, then setting sail across the Atlantic for some winter sun in the Caribbean. Originally owned by the Brandy company Hennessy and named ‘Spirit of Hennessey, she appeared in many TV programmes and commercials before being privately bought in the late 90’s.

On deck, she boasts ample space for her guests to become fully immersed in hands-on sailing, heaving the ropes, hoisting the sails, learning ropes skills, and even taking the helm. She has 3 kayaks and 3 paddle boards for guest use while on anchor so you can explore even further inshore.

A spacious saloon, wheelhouse and galley also sit at deck level, while below decks have been well-considered with six spacious ensuite cabins. All cabins have full-size bunks, a small desk, a porthole for natural light and heating/air conditioning.

Read more about Life on Board Blue Clipper here.

Deck plan

Life on board Blue Clipper

Sailing with tall ship Blue Clipper is certainly an enjoyable, hands-on experience and guests are encouraged to get involved with all aspects of sailing this magnificent tall ship. Spending her summers exploring Scotland and the Hebrides and her winters sailing in the Caribbean, Blue Clipper is a luxury tall ship experience. Perfect for couples or solo travellers looking for that added touch of luxury with private en-suite cabins and top-notch food.

Getting involved

From hoisting the sails to taking the helm, the friendly and knowledgeable crew are always on hand to show you the ropes. Part of the beauty of sailing with such a magnificent vessel is the opportunity to get involved in a safe and supported environment! The permanent crew are all professionally trained, so as much as guest involvement is encouraged if you just want to sit back and take in the view or are concerned about your physical ability to hoist ropes – there are plenty of other boat jobs such as coiling ropes, preparing lines and keeping watch!

Eating on board

Blue Clipper has a dedicated chef on board, too, so you don’t have to worry about cooking after a day sailing in the salty sea air. Think locally sourced produce, fresh fish, and homemade bread with hearty home-cooked meals, as well as plenty of tea, coffee, and cake!

Sleeping and relaxation

Below decks, Blue Clipper has a large, comfy saloon perfect for sharing sea-faring tales, hearty home-cooked meals or even a game of cards! Rest up after a day of adventure in your spacious private en-suite cabin. With twin bunks, sailing with Blue Clipper is certainly one of comfort and is the perfect choice for couples or solo travellers.

Blue Clipper has two kayaks and paddleboards on board, which guests are welcome to use to explore the nooks and crannies of the coast! There is no extra charge for this, and buoyancy vests are also provided.

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

Kit list

Blue Clipper has plenty of space within the cabin (including hanging space) to put your things away but 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 own preferences!

• Fingerless gloves for hoisting sails (sailing or cycling are best)
• Walking shoes/trainers for exploring ashore (with good grip)
• Sandals with ankle support
• Flip-flops (optional)
• Swimsuits and swim towel
• Lightweight, quick-dry clothes (base layers, fleece and synthetic tops are lightweight and quick-drying!)

It can be quite a few degrees colder out at sea, so please bring many 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)
• EU 2pin plug adaptor
• 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.

SAMPLE MENU FOR BLUE CLIPPER

All food is made on board, and local, fresh produce is at the top of the shopping list. Please note that this is an example of what you may be served.

BREAKFAST

• Poached/scrambled eggs, bacon, vine tomatoes, mushrooms
• French toast, bacon, maple syrup
• Porridge, fruit selection
• Toast, preserves and cereal selection
• Tea, fresh coffee and fresh fruit juice

AFTERNOON CAKE

• Tea, coffee, home-made cakes, scones, jam and cream, shortbreads

LUNCH

• Spinach and ricotta tortellini, blue cheese sauce and cherry tomatoes
• Open sandwiches, salad, crisps
• Cous cous salad, goats cheese, roasted red pepper
• Wild mushroom risotto with rocket and herb oil
• Fish goujons, new potatoes, tartar and salad garnish

DINNER

• Starters; Tomato bruschetta, Ardennes pate, salt baked beetroot, curry aioli, gremolata sesame praline, hot smoked salmon crostini
  
• Fillet of coley, crushed new potatoes, asparagus, beurre blanc, dill mayo
• Pork belly, maple glazed celeriac, turmeric curr, rice and salsa, basil pesto
• Roast chicken thigh, sauteed new potatoes, squash puree, braised carrots, kale, red wine jus
• Spiced bean stew, rocket, herb oil
• Chicken breast, celeriac puree, mash, parma ham crisp, miso mayo

Dessert

• Coffee and cake
• Cheeseboard

What’s Included 

• Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Soft/hot drinks)
• 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
• Use of boats kayaks and stand-up paddle-boards
• Onboard chef

What’s not included

• Alcohol
• Waterproof coat or trousers
• All 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 12 miles offshore.

Need help with flights? 

If you require some expert help with sourcing the right flights to meet the boat, please get in touch with Jenny at the Flight Centre via this form, she will be able to send you a quote within24 hours. 

FAQ

• Are all meals included?

  Yes, all meals on board are included in the price. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner and soft/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 alcohol.

• What are the sleeping arrangements?

  6x Twin Ensuite Cabins.

• Is there a porthole in my cabin?

  Yes, each cabin has a porthole.

• How many toilet/showers does she have?

  9 in total. All Cabins are Ensuite aside from the six-berth that shares a bathroom.

• 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, but you can bring a travel hair dryer if you wish.

• Will I be able to wash my clothes?

  No. there is no guest laundry facilities aboard.

• Is there heating/air conditioning onboard?

  Yes, there is heating throughout the boat.

• 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 tech 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 - please bring EU adaptors.

• What is the currency on board?

  GBP - pounds sterling.

• Are there life jackets provided?

  Yes.

• How do I get on and off the boat?

  Blue Clipper 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.

• 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?

  She has 3 kayaks and 2 stand-up paddle boards 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?

  Over 12's for normal voyages. No age limit for private charters.

Travel Planning

From: Bridgetown

To: Soufriere

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

Getting There

Bridgetown, Barbados

By Air

Flights go direct to Barbados Airport from Birmingham, Manchester, London Gatwick and London Heathrow. You can then get a taxi to the marina which takes about 30 minutes

Need help with flights? 

If you require some expert help with sourcing the right flights to meet the boat, please get in touch with Jenny at the Flight Centre via this form, she will be able to send you a quote within 24 hours.