Sailing & Exploring Cornwall

Life at Sea

Set sail from Falmouth, with its picture-perfect streets, river mouth and bay. Your voyage will, of course, be dictated by the direction of the wind and tide to make full use of Agnes’ sails, so there is no set route or itinerary. The skipper and crew will share a tailored itinerary based on the weather for your trip, as you enjoy tea and homemade cake on arrival.

Soaking up the Cornish coast

Depending on where the wind takes you, you could head west, down the beautiful Cornish coastline and up the Helford River exploring the beautiful creeks that have inspired the likes of Daphne du Maurier…and Kylie Minogue. Moor up on National Trust beaches, visit riverside smuggler’s inns and experience true freedom as the wind fills Agnes’ 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 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.

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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Agnes

Guest berths: 6 Rig: Pilot Cutter

Agnes is a 46ft wooden pilot cutter, owned and built by Luke Powell in 2003 – the flagship of his boat-building company.

Traditionally rigged a gaff cutter, she has the ability to fly 5 sails, depending on the weather. She is tiller steered and all sails are pulled up manually, so there is plenty for the guests to get involved with if they so desire. She was built with a traditional oak frame and planked with Douglas fir mast and spars.

Originally designed and built for speed and seaworthiness, these sturdy vessels would carry pilots out to sea, meeting ocean-going ships arriving with cargos bound for Europe. Whatever the weather and however rough the seas these courageous cutters were an integral part of maritime life in the south-west of England.

Down below, you are welcomed into a cosy saloon with cushioned seating around a large table for all the guests and crew. There are six guest berths arranged around an open-plan cabin situated forward of the mast. She has one head, with a pull-out shower attachment for when we can’t get ashore.

The professional and friendly crew of two are always thoughtful hosts, effortlessly sharing a passion for sailing, discovering beautiful anchorages and feasting on freshly prepared meals. She will sail with a skipper, mate/cook and spends her sailing season exploring the coasts of Cornwall and Devon with voyages across to the Isles of Scilly, the Channel Islands and the Breton Coast.

More about Agnes

Agnes requires no previous sailing experience to jump aboard – only a lust for adventure! Under the guidance of her fully trained crew, you are invited to get actively involved in all aspects of sailing Agnes. From hoisting her sails, trimming the ropes, taking the helm and getting her ready for anchor – this truly is a hand-on sailing holiday perfect for those that want to learn more about life aboard a classic boat.

Aboard Agnes, the food is (nearly!) as important as the exhilarating sailing with each meal home-cooked using local ingredients where possible, resulting in the most delicious spread of food every evening. Think seafood that’s been caught half an hour ago, local meats and cheeses from various local producers, plus homemade bread and condiments. All dietary requirements are catered for and you don’t even have to worry about washing up, as the crew take care of that too while you unwind by sampling some specially selected local spirits.

Wherever the winds take you, there is certainly always somewhere magical to explore and sail in Cornwall. Agnes provides the perfect base for that adventure sailing holiday of a lifetime. Perfect for solo travellers, couples and even available for private charter, jump aboard and feel the magic of this beautiful vessel as she glides through Cornish Waters.

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) Alcohol is not included.

• Can you cater for dietary needs?

  Yes, Vegetarian, Dairy and Gluten Free diets can be accomodated. Please let us know at time of booking. Unfortunately we are unable to provide a Vegan menu.

• What language is spoken onboard?

  English

• What are the sleeping arrangements?

  6 berths in the open fore cabin

• How many toilet/showers does she have?

  1 bathroom with a pull out shower. Water is limited so on-shore showers are preferred.

• Do I need to tip the crew?

  Tips are not mandatory but are welcomed by the crew!

• Is there an age limit?

  On public voyages yes, please check as each voyage is different. Private charter age limits depend on experience but preferably 5+ years.

• Is there WIFI?

  No, but you should easily be able to reach 3G/4G from the shore.

• Can I charge my phone/Camera?

  When the boat is connected to shore power or the generator is on. Solar chargers can be a great alternative.

• Are bedding and towels provided?

  Bedding, yes - Towels, no

• Are there life jackets provided?

  Yes

• Are Waterproofs provided?

  Offshore sailing jackets/trousers are available from Agnes while sailing but please bring your own jacket for going ashore.

• 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.

Travel Planning

From: Falmouth

To: 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.