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Sail with tall ship Oosterschelde between the Caribbean islands of Martinique and St Martin.
This voyage is perfect for those looking to explore the Caribbean from the water, exploring some of the harder-to-reach destinations away from the tourist hotspots and busy cruise liners.
- Fully crewed tall ship
- Great for adventurers
- Private cabins
- Caribbean Island hopping
- Star-gazing
- Full Board
Need some help?
Talk to the team
Telephone: +44 (0)1872 487288
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp: +44 7804 472592
YOUR SAILING AREA
Martinique, Caribbean
Begin your Caribbean sailing holiday on the island of Martinique. A delightful cultural blend of French and West Indian influences, Christopher Columbus landed on the island in 1502 and christened the island as Martinica. Oosterschelde will be in the sheltered bay of Le Marin. Spend your first evening getting used to the ship and meeting your fellow guests and crew.
Day 2
After a refreshing morning swim in the bay, it’s time to set the sails towards the island of Dominica, where Oosterschelde will anchor in the bay near Rousseau by late afternoon.
Day 3
Dominica is the largest and most mountainous island of the Windward Islands of the Lesser Antilles. Still relatively untouched by mass tourism, it offers an authentic Caribbean experience. Join a guided hike across the island where you can find a natural pool beneath a jungle waterfall for an unforgettable swim!
Day 4
Our next destination is Guadeloupe. Guadeloupe is an archipelago in its own right with the main butterfly-shaped island surrounded by even more miniature versions of this tropical paradise. The main island is divided by the Salee River, home to jungle swamps, and connected only by a couple of bridges.
Day 5
More than a quarter of the island is designated as a National Park, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can spend their day exploring the park, climbing the La Soufrière volcano, or walking through lush rainforests. Snorkelers and divers are urged to visit the Jacques Cousteau diving site, which is often regarded as one of the most beautiful diving locations in the world.
Day 6
After a refreshing morning swim, sail on to the volcanic island of Montserrat. The eruption of the Soufriere Hills Volcano in 1995 devastated the island, with the last two decades spent re-building and growing the population.
Day 7
Spend the day exploring Montserrat. Dubbed one of the most dramatic islands in the Caribbean for its geological history and landscape, it is home to towering mountain peaks and rainforest hillsides. Nowadays, Montserrat draws tourists wanting to experience a little bit of authentic, laid back Caribbean island life. A slow rhythm with friendly locals, rainforest trails and wonderful bird-watching opportunities where cruise liners are yet to arrive.
Day 8
Spend the day under sail to the island of Nevis, part of the Lesser Antilles and a constituent state of Saint Kitts and Nevis. Christopher Columbus discovered the island in 1493 and named it Nevis, believing he saw snow on the summit of the island’s highest mountain.
Day 9
This highest peak is the mysterious Nevis Peak, a dormant volcano surrounded by lush jungle and hiking trails. Today, you can opt for a hike through the rainforest, or history enthusiasts may enjoy visiting Charlestown to see colonial architecture and the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, one of the United States’ Founding Fathers.
Day 10
Hoisting the sails, our next destination is the island of Saint-Barthélemy. The French-speaking island of St Barths has long been dubbed the playground of the rich and famous with pristine beaches, gourmet dining and designer boutiques.
Day 11
Away from the hustle and bustle, a tropical paradise awaits with luscious mountains, stretches of soft white-sand beaches and beautiful flowering gardens filled with hibiscus. This volcanic island is surrounded by shallow reefs, so it makes for great snorkelling and swimming too.
Day 12 – 13
For the final time, we hoist the sails and head toward the final destination of our journey, St Martin. The island is divided into a Dutch and French side. We will anchor in the bay near Marigot, on the French side, in the late afternoon. The next morning, after breakfast, you will disembark.
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Please use this day-by-day itinerary as a guide, as it will depend on the wind and weather!
Things to note
Sailing vs Shoretime
Do I need to take part in night-watches?
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.
LIFE ON BOARD
Over the years, Oosterschelde has become a firm favourite for sea lovers. She is perfect for those wanting an active sailing holiday while exploring bucket list locations on a beautifully historic tall ship.
Getting Involved
You really don’t need any experience to sail with Oosterschelde, just a passion for adventure. The professional crew loves to share their knowledge, and they welcome as much or as little participation as guests want. They often find that most guests like to have some level of involvement with sailing the ship, from hoisting the sails to taking the helm.
Sleeping Relaxation
With a hull length of over 50m, three masts and nine cabins able to sleep 24 guests, the size and scale of Oosterschelde will be one of the first things to realise as you climb aboard for the very first time. Space is something of which there is plenty, from twin to four berth private cabins and five bathrooms to choose from, the sleeping quarters feel more like a floating hotel than a boat. All cabins are fitted with a washbasin with hot and cold running water.
The communal areas are furnished comfortably and supplied with all modern conveniences. In the spacious and stylishly appointed saloon, there are reading tables, seating areas, a library, a fully stocked bar and even a piano. With underfloor heating and a wood-burning stove, even in colder climates, Oosterschelde ensures her guests are always cosy and warm. The saloon is also where the captain or first mate will inform you of the voyage progress and the weather report on a daily basis.
Life on board is enhanced by the good meals prepared by our appointed professional chef. All food will be freshly prepared onboard to the highest standard. Expect continental breakfasts, freshly baked bread, delicious lunches and dinners making use of the local produce on offer. All dietary requirements can be catered for, and you’ll certainly be well taken care of after a day of sailing.
What’s included
- Full Board (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, hot drinks)
- All bedding (pillow, sheets & duvet)
- Full crew plus tuition
- Marina and fuel fees
- All tender trips to and from the boat
- Lifejacket
- Use of onboard piano and library
What’s not included
- Alcohol and soft drinks (payable at the end of your voyage with cash (euros))
- Wash Towel
- Waterproofs
- Excursions ashore (these are charged a low cost, local rate once onboard and are not mandatory)
- 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
Oosterschelde has limited space for possessions, so please be considerate and travel as light as possible. 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.
- Small wash towel
- 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!
- Offshore 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 (We have a water maker onboard – please do not drink tap water on the islands)
- Small personal first aid kit and any medication you may need
- Camera/binoculars
- Personal wash kit (please use reef-safe, eco products where possible)
- Sleep masks and earplugs if sharing a cabin.
- Charging cables for personal devices
- EU 2pin adaptor
- 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: Le Marin, Martinique
To: Marigot Bay, St Martin
Getting There
Martinique, Caribbean
BY AIR
Fly to Fort de France Airport (Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport) from major UK airports (you’ll likely need to change over in Paris). From here you can take a taxi to Le Marin which is around 30 minutes.
Alternatively, it may be quicker to take a direct flight to Antigua and then an internal flight to Martinique.
Need help with flights?
Oosterschelde
Guest berths: 24 Rig: Topsail Schooner
With three masts, a topsail schooner rig and measuring over 50m in length, Oosterschelde is one of the largest Dutch tall ships to be still actively sailing today. Her impressive size and scale command interest wherever she goes, and guests are always proud to have had the opportunity to sail on such a historic ship.
The professional crew welcome all ages and abilities and finds that most guests love to get actively involved with the authentic experience of sailing a tall ship. From working together to hoist the sails to taking the helm, there is even a piano aboard for those musically gifted. Whether you’re a solo traveller or an adventurous couple, sailing with Oosterschelde doesn’t require any previous experience to join her voyages.
Built in Rotterdam in 1917, she started life as a cargo ship sailing the coast of Morocco and later the Baltic Sea. In the late 80s, she was brought back home to the Netherlands, where she underwent extensive maintenance to restore her to the authentic tall ship that she remains to this day.
Below decks, her communal areas are spacious, with a generous saloon, bar and library. Complete with all the mod-cons and safety equipment, she also has underfloor heating and a wood-burning stove for sailing in colder climates. Her sleeping accommodation is located toward the bows with six two-berth and three four-berth cabins, all with washbasins and sharing five separate bathrooms
More about OosterscheldeAre 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?
We can cater for vegetarians and gluten free.
Are there any added extras?
There is an onboard honesty bar for alcohol.
What are the sleeping arrangements?
6x twin cabins and 3x four-berth cabins
Is there a porthole in my cabin/berth?
Yes, there are ceiling hatches in each cabin.
How many toilet/showers does she have?
Five in total, shared with all the cabins.
Are bedding and towels included?
Yes all bedding and a wash towel is included.
Is there a hairdryer on board?
No, please do not bring one. The sea breeze makes a great alternative!
Will I be able to wash my clothes?
Laundry can be arranged on longer crossings.
Is there heating onboard?
Yes, Oosterschelde has underfloor heating and a wood-burning stove.
Do I need to tip the crew?
Tips are not mandatory but are welcomed by the crew!
What language is spoken onboard?
Dutch & English
Is there WIFI?
No, but you should be able to reach 4/5G from the shore when in range. Please make sure you have the appropriate international roaming options set up.
How do I charge my phone?
There are 2 pin EU sockets throughout the boat and in each cavbin so please bring adaptors.
What is the currency on board?
Euro's
Are there life jackets provided?
Yes
How do I get on and off the boat?
There is a ladder in the mid-ships.
Are Waterproofs provided?
No
Do I need sailing experience?
No, absolutely not! Just a love for adventure.
Does the boat have any water toys?
There are some Stand-up Paddle-boards and fishing gear 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?
Please check if you are wanting to travel with children.
More holidays in The Caribbean
Luxury Sailing around St Martin
Luxury Sailing Holiday from Martinique
Luxury Caribbean Sailing Holiday around Antigua
Atlantic Crossing Sailing Adventure; Tenerife to Antigua
More holidays on Oosterschelde
Tall Ship sailing from Bordeaux to Brittany
French Coastal Sailing: The Gulf of Morbihan
Bay of Biscay Sailing: Azores to France
Offshore Tall Ship Sailing from Tenerife to Cape Verde
Inspiration for your voyage
Be inspired to discover the world under sail! Read our latest journals below. Be inspired to discover the world under sail! Read our latest journals below.
JOURNAL











































