Twister Sails to COP30 in Brazil: A Coruna Pickup TW270925COP

Embark	Disembark	Vessel	Duration	Voyage No
Sat 27-09-2025, 14:00A Coruna	Fri 07-11-2025, 14:00Belém, Brazil	Twister	41 Nights	TW270925COP

Voyage Description

Setting Sail

You can join this voyage from Amsterdam (NL), Fowey (UK), A Coruna (ES) or Lisbon (PT).

When joining the ship you’ll receive a full safety induction and familiarisation from the crew, and very soon you’ll have gotten to know everyone and be feeling a real part of the team.

Once out at sea, the ship will start to come to life and find her rhythm. You can help the crew sail and navigate. While not compulsory, getting stuck in with the practicalities of sailing Twister is how you’ll get the most out of your voyage. The crew will gladly show you the ropes, explain the ins and outs of the ship’s workings, teach you to steer the ship or climb up the bowsprit netting if conditions allow.

Everyone is assigned a navigational watch, and you will learn the joys of watching a sunrise at sea, and experiencing clear night skies full of more stars than you can ever see from land.

Along the Way

First landfall after departing Lisbon will likely be Tenerife in the Canary Islands. Take the opportunity to explore this volcanic island’s stunning bays, dramatic landscapes, and lush inland jungle. The waters surrounding Tenerife are home to various species of whales and dolphins, providing a chance to witness these magnificent creatures up close. The lively nightlife in the towns ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the stopover.

Continuing the voyage, brisk trade winds propel Twister towards the Cape Verde Island of Sao Vicente, and the vibrant capital, Mindelo. After days at sea, the bustle and cultural richness of city life are a welcome change. Alternatively, guests can embark on a ferry to the pristine paradise of Santo Antao, a hidden gem free from large-scale tourism. Make the most of a good leg stretch before your Atlantic crossing.

Days sailing out of sight of land offer time for lively conversations, reading, or simply relishing the surge of the waves as Twister makes steady progress towards South America. Swimming in the deep ocean, with miles of water beneath and no land in sight, is a truly unforgettable experience. There’ll also be plenty to help out with on deck, constantly checking the sail trim to ensure Twister is making the most of the wind available.

Schooner Twister crew member on the bowsprit in the sunrise

Arriving in Bélem

On arrival in Brazil, Twister will anchor on the river in Belém. You can choose to part company with Twister on arrival, or the ship can be your base camp during COP30, with the crew bringing you back and forth between the shore and the ship by dinghy.

After the Conference

Starting November 27, Twister will set sail for the Caribbean, where she will undertake three months of cruising until the fair weather sets in for the return journey. You can, of course, remain on board the ship (see Twister’s Caribbean voyages), or get dropped off in Trinidad to enjoy winter in the sun before catching a ride back to Europe in March 2026.

WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER

Depending on your joining port you may have some changeable Autumnal conditions for the European coastal legs of this voyage. Once en route South towards the Canaries, the trade winds usually cooperate, but this is a serious ocean voyage, and you should be prepared for the possibility of potentially rough conditions. Swells can be big even when the winds are fair, and your sea-legs will be sure to get a work out!

A NOTE ON VOYAGE DESCRIPTIONS

On a sailing voyage we never use the word itinerary, as skippers will always be aiming for the best and safest sailing routes for the forecast. They are as keen as you to include some of the highlights described above, but when it comes to sailing, you have to go with Mother Nature, not fight her. The description provided is based on what we think might be possible, based on past trips, or prior experience, but nothing is guaranteed on a sailing voyage. As such, the scheduled joining ports, routes, activities and/or destinations may be altered. Due to the complexities of weather systems, this may be at short notice.

HANDS ON HOLIDAYS

Whether you are an experienced sailor or a complete beginner, the professional crew will train you to be guest crew from the moment you arrive, with the intention that everybody works together to sail the ship. The common thread to all Classic Sailing holidays is ‘Hands on’ participation on ships that use ropes, blocks and tackles and ‘people power’ to set sail. Handling cargo adds an extra dimension – building teamwork and communication skills and leaving you with a great sense of achievement.

SAILING STYLE & LIFE ON BOARD

We cater for a wide range of ages and physical abilities and how much you are expected to do varies a bit between vessels. See the vessel tab above which explains all about the ‘sailing style’ and what to expect in terms of hands on participation. There is a lot of information about day to day life, the ships facilities and accommodation on the vessel pages.

Start & End Port

A Coruna

The exact location of your ship within the harbour will be given in time for your voyage.

How to Get There

From the UK

The most straightforward way to get to A Coruña from the UK is by plane. Direct flights are available from London to A Coruña Airport, which is about 8 km from the city centre. If you fancy a road trip, you can drive through France and Spain, but be prepared for a journey that could take upwards of 20 hours. Coaches are also available but are the least recommended due to the long travel time.

From Europe

If you’re coming from other parts of Europe, flights are plentiful and usually quite affordable. Alternatively, you can take a train into Madrid and then a domestic train to A Coruña. The Spanish rail system is efficient and offers a scenic journey.

From North America

Transatlantic flights usually land in Madrid or Barcelona. From there, you can catch a domestic flight to A Coruña or opt for a train journey if you’re not in a rush.

From Australia

For our mates down under, the journey is a long one. The most practical way is to fly into a major European hub like London or Madrid and then take a connecting flight to A Coruña.

What to Do in A Coruña

History

The Tower of Hercules, an ancient Roman lighthouse, is a must-see. It’s not just a historical marvel but also offers panoramic views of the Atlantic. The city is also home to several museums like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Archaeological Museum.

Culture

A Coruña is rich in Galician culture. The city comes alive during the Festival of María Pita, celebrating a local heroine. Traditional Galician music and dance are integral to the city’s cultural fabric.

Sites of Interest to a Sailor

The coastline here is a sailor’s dream. Riazor and Orzán beaches offer stunning views of the Atlantic. The coastline is dotted with smaller harbours, and while we don’t care for marinas, these are charming spots to drop anchor. Don’t miss the Punta Herminia and the Monte de San Pedro for some of the best views.

Entertainment

The city has a vibrant nightlife with a plethora of bars and clubs. Live music is common, and you’ll often find traditional Galician tunes being played alongside modern genres.

Eating Out

Seafood is the star of the show here. Octopus, shellfish, and hake are local favourites. For a unique dining experience, try the ‘pulpeiras,’ or octopus stalls.

Nature

Beyond the sea, A Coruña offers lush landscapes and parks. The Garden of San Carlos offers a peaceful retreat, and for those looking to hike, the Fragas do Eume natural park is just a short drive away.

Unique Features

What sets A Coruña apart is its blend of modernity and tradition, its love for the sea, and its warm, welcoming people. It’s a place where every sunset over the Atlantic feels like a personal performance, just for you.

Special Interests

If you have a special interest that you would like to find out about for this port or to tell us about, we would love to hear from you.

Sustainable Travel Carbon Offset Schemes

By selecting sustainable travel options and actively participating in carbon offset initiatives, you can make a positive impact while journeying to or from your voyage.

Here are some suggestions for carbon offset websites.

UK: One popular carbon offset website in the UK is “Clear” who offer a range of carbon offset projects and solutions for individuals, businesses, and organisations. They provide detailed information about their projects and allow users to calculate and offset their carbon footprint online.

North America: In North America, “Terrapass” is a well-known carbon offset website. Terrapass offers carbon offset projects across the United States and Canada. They provide options for individuals, businesses, and events to calculate and offset their carbon emissions. Terrapass also offers additional resources and information on sustainable living.

Europe: A popular carbon offset website in Europe is “MyClimate.” MyClimate provides carbon offset projects and solutions for individuals, businesses, and travel. They offer a carbon footprint calculator and allow users to support various sustainable projects worldwide. MyClimate focuses on promoting climate protection and sustainability.

Australia: “Greenfleet” is a prominent carbon offset website in Australia. Greenfleet focuses on planting native forests to offset carbon emissions. They offer individuals and businesses the opportunity to calculate and offset their carbon footprint by contributing to tree planting projects across Australia. Greenfleet provides detailed information about their projects and the positive environmental impacts they create.

Please note that these carbon offset websites may vary over time, so it is recommended to research and explore multiple options to find the most suitable one for your needs.

If any of these links do not work it would be kind of you to inform us, many thanks.

Belém, Brazil

Just south of the Amazon river, Brazil’s Belém is the host city for the 2025 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30)

Kit List

What to pack for a sailing adventure aboard Twister

What is Included:

All meals and soft drinks aboard
All safety equipment, including lifejackets and harnesses.
Your bunk, bedding and a towel

What is Not Included:

Travel to and from your voyage
Personal travel insurance (see our advice on Travel Insurance)
Alcohol- drinks are available to purchase on board- consumption is always at the discretion of the Skipper, and is never permitted whilst the ship is underway.
Waterproofs - sets are available to hire: make sure to discuss this with the ship's team before you arrive.

What to Bring

YOUR PASSPORT! Along with any other required travel documentation. Please read the joining instructions you receive from the Ship carefully to ensure you have everything you need.

Please, no valuable jewellery or other valuables, unless you have got specific travel insurance to cover it.
Waterproofs - see above.
Hats for sun and cold weather.
At least two sets of warm clothes - layers e.g. tracksuit bottoms, shirts, fleece jacket, wool jumpers, thick socks, and neck scarf. It can get cold at sea even in mid summer.
Swim suit and suntan lotion.
Flat shoes with a good grip e.g. trainers or sailing deck shoes. Sailing boots or wellies are also helpful.
All terrain type Sandals are great for dinghy trips ashore – but you do need shoes which protect your toes for sailing.
Camera, binoculars, sketchbook, a relaxing read, a musical instrument, pack of cards, magic tricks...
Any medication, spare spectacles. Seasickness tablets or pressure-point wrist bands (talk to your pharmacist)
Your own logbook if you'd like to keep track of your sea miles.
Tech chargers (along with adaptors for European sockets) and waterproof cases for any electronics. A rechargeable battery pack for your phone / camera can be really helpful.

N.B. BOATS HAVE LIMITED STORAGE SPACE SO PLEASE PACK AS LIGHTLY AS POSSIBLE. Don't use a rigid suitcase or a bag with a rigid frame. Soft bags are much easier to fold up and stow.