Morgenster

Embark	Disembark	Vessel	Duration	Voyage No
Sun 31-05-2026, 17:00Ostend, Belgium	Sat 06-06-2026, 10:00Flushing, Vlissingen, Holland	Morgenster	6 Nights	MS310526

Voyage Description

Morgenster leads the procession of Tall Ships

IDEAL VOYAGE FOR…

Beginners

No Previous sailing experience required

Short sea passage then up river to and through Brussels.

FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

After the vibrant festivities of Oostende voor Anker fade into memory, the Tall Ship Morgenster spreads her magnificent square sails once more and sets course for Flushing. This relaxed five-day coastal sailing voyage offers the perfect balance of maritime adventure, salt-tinged sea breezes, and the timeless joy of traditional sailing along some of Europe’s most historic waterways.

Before you cast off, take time to explore Oostende itself. This Belgian coastal gem blends belle époque elegance with seaside charm. Wander along the longest tramway in the world, discover the fascinating Atlantikwall museum housed in authentic World War II bunkers, or simply enjoy fresh North Sea mussels at one of the many seafront restaurants. The promenade comes alive with the energy of locals and visitors alike, while the fishing harbour still bustles with working boats bringing in their daily catch.

As the festival crowds wave farewell from the quayside, you’ll feel the ship come alive beneath your feet. The crew casts off the lines, and the Morgenster glides gracefully away from the harbour, her tall masts swaying gently against the sky. With the wind filling her canvas, you’ll sail along the Belgian and Dutch coasts, possibly visiting the UK coast briefly as wind and tide dictate. The Channel approaches and North Sea stretch endlessly ahead, their grey-green waters sparkling in the sunlight or rolling dramatically under cloudy skies.

This voyage is ideal for anyone wanting to experience authentic life aboard a real tall ship. You’re warmly invited to join the crew and help sail the vessel. Feel the solid wood of the ship’s wheel beneath your hands as you take your turn at the helm, hear the satisfying creak of rigging as you help hoist the square sails, or learn the centuries-old art of navigation. But there’s absolutely no pressure. You can just as easily find a quiet spot on deck, let the wind tangle through your hair, watch the seabirds wheel overhead, and let the gentle rhythm of the waves carry your worries away.

Depending on weather conditions, you may drop anchor in one or two charming ports along the route. Picture peaceful harbours where time seems to slow down, cozy quaysides where you can stretch your legs and perhaps enjoy a local beer, and evenings filled with laughter, stories, and the gentle sound of waves lapping against the wooden hull. There’s something magical about waking up in a different port, stepping ashore to explore, then returning to your floating home as the sun sets.

Sailing toward Flushing means retracing historic seafaring routes that once connected Flanders and Zeeland to the wider world. These were the waters sailed by merchants, explorers, and fishermen for centuries. As you approach the Dutch coast, the sight of rolling dunes and the wide mouth of the Scheldt estuary brings a genuine sense of homecoming, even if this is your first voyage.

Your destination, Flushing, has been welcoming sailors for over seven hundred years. This historic port city was once one of the most important trading centres in Europe, and its maritime heritage is visible everywhere. The boulevard offers stunning views across the Westerschelde, where massive container ships and smaller sailing vessels share the same waters. Visit the MuZEEum to dive deeper into Zeeland’s rich maritime history, walk the historic streets lined with distinctive architecture, or simply sit at a waterfront café and watch the world sail by. The city’s strategic position at the mouth of the Scheldt has shaped its character, and you’ll feel that connection to the sea in every corner.

The Tall Ship Morgenster herself is part of that living maritime history. This graceful, square-rigged vessel was built to share the traditions, teamwork, and skills of the great age of sail with modern adventurers. Sailing aboard her isn’t just a journey between two ports, it’s an immersion into a way of life that has connected people to the sea for generations.

Morgenster in Vlissingen - Flushing

WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER

This is a simple voyage with only a small amount of coastal sailing.

HANDS ON HOLIDAYS

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.

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.

AGILITY & FITNESS

Every customer sailing with us will need to fill in basic medical questions on their booking application. If you are not sure if your current level of fitness and agility are up to a voyage, then please ring the Classic Sailing Office on 01326 53 1234 and we can chat through your concerns and possibly find options that might suit you better.

Start & End Port

Ostend, Belgium

Worthwhile Journeys
You are going to be spending some time in the ports you embark and disembark from. These aren’t just logistical points; they’re opportunities for further enrichment. Take an extra day to discover what’s beyond the harbour. It’s not merely about filling time; it’s about making the entire journey worthwhile.

Keeping in Touch
The exact location of your ship may not be known until closer to your joining time, you will be informed by email once the exact position has been confirmed. Make sure you take a note of the ship’s mobile or cell phone number with you in case you are delayed or there are any other problems on the day.

What to Do in Ostend

History
Ostend’s maritime past runs deep. Once a modest fishing village, it became the summer retreat of Belgian royalty and an important naval base. The Atlantic Wall Museum provides an insight into the city’s strategic wartime role, while the Mercator, a three-masted training ship turned museum, offers a fine introduction to Belgium’s seafaring heritage. The Mu.ZEE gallery also traces Ostend’s place in the nation’s artistic and cultural evolution.

Culture
Ostend hosts several lively festivals throughout the year, including the Theater aan Zee arts festival in summer and the Crystal Ship street art event each spring. The annual Paulusfeesten brings open-air concerts, food stalls, and dancing to the city’s old quarter, a welcome celebration for any sailor coming ashore.

Sites of Interest to a Sailor
Approaching Ostend by sea, you’ll spot its long breakwaters and the distinctive white lighthouse at the harbour entrance. The North Sea coast here is broad and open, with steady winds ideal for sailing. Ashore, the promenade and the Royal Galleries frame views of passing ships, while the nearby harbour locks and fish market reveal daily working life tied to the sea.

Entertainment
After time aboard, Ostend offers a relaxed but vibrant scene. Beachfront cafés and bars stretch along the promenade, many with live music through the summer. The Kursaal Casino hosts concerts and comedy, and local pubs such as Lafayette or the Penny offer an unpolished charm popular with sailors and locals alike.

Eating Out
Seafood is central to Ostend’s culinary identity. Try freshly caught shrimp, mussels, or sole in one of the harbour restaurants, or head inland for Flemish classics paired with local beer. De Mosselbeurs and Kombuis are well-regarded for straightforward, quality dishes that suit a sailor’s appetite.

Nature
Beyond the city, the dunes and coastal reserves of Raversyde and Zwin offer space to walk and breathe sea air. The beaches stretch for miles, with cycle paths and birdwatching points along the way. For a change of pace, hire a bicycle or take a short tram ride to explore the Belgian coast.

Unique Features
What sets Ostend apart is its blend of working port and seaside resort. It retains the grit of a real harbour town while offering culture and comfort. Few North Sea ports provide such easy access between ship, sea, and city centre.

Accommodation
For those extending their stay, the Hotel du Parc offers Art Deco charm near the seafront, while Thermae Palace provides spa facilities within walking distance of the marina. Smaller guesthouses and apartments are plentiful and well-suited to sailors looking for a night or two ashore.

Official Tourist Website
https://www.visitoostende.be/en

Weather in Ostend
Winters are cool and often breezy, with temperatures around 5°C. Spring brings clearer skies and fresh winds from the sea. Summers are mild, typically 18–22°C, ideal for sailing and sightseeing. Autumn sees shorter days but often calm, sunny spells before winter storms set in.

Sea and Beyond: A Responsible Mariner’s Guide
Since you’re already investing in a unique sailing adventure, why not extend that spirit to your travel choices? Opt for more sustainable methods of transport where possible like trains, coaches, or sharing a car. If you fly, and we realise this may well be the case, you could research some ways to offset the carbon created by the flight.

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.

How to Get There

From the UK
Eurostar trains connect London to Brussels, with onward trains to Ostend taking around an hour. Dover to Calais ferries, followed by a short drive or train journey, are also an option. Flights to Brussels or Ostend-Bruges Airport are available but less convenient than train travel.

From Europe
Ostend is well served by rail links from Brussels, Bruges, and other European cities. Buses connect from Paris, Amsterdam, and Cologne, while flights to Brussels offer easy onward connections.

From North America
Travellers can fly from major hubs such as New York, Boston, or Toronto to Brussels, then take the train to Ostend in under two hours. Amsterdam and Paris are also useful gateways.

From Australia
Typical routes connect via Dubai, Doha, or Singapore to Brussels. From there, the train to Ostend offers a comfortable and scenic continuation of the journey.

When Is the Best Time to Book a Flight?
Domestic travel: Book 1–2 months in advance.
International travel: Plan to book 3–6 months ahead.
Holiday travel: Secure your tickets 3–10 months in advance.
High-demand periods: Start monitoring fares as early as possible.
Spring, summer, or autumn international trips: Look at least 4–6 months before departure.

Extra Tips for Finding Cheap Flights
Travel off-peak, avoid busy travel periods, and consider midweek flights. Explore alternative airports, check airline websites for direct deals, and use flight trackers such as Google Flights or Hopper. Signing up for fare alerts or newsletters like Jack’s Flight Club can help you spot sudden price drops.

Tools to Help You Save
Tools like Skyscanner’s Savings Generator can provide insights into the best booking windows for your trip, ensuring you get the most value for your money.

With these tips, planning your next trip doesn’t have to break the bank. Start early, stay flexible, and explore your options for the best results.

Flushing, Vlissingen, Holland

What to Do in Flushing

History
Flushing, known locally as Vlissingen, has been a key maritime gateway for centuries. It served as a vital naval base for the Dutch East India Company and has long been associated with shipbuilding and trade. The MuZEEum offers excellent insight into Zeeland’s maritime history, while the city’s sea defences and historic docks remind visitors of its importance in both war and commerce.

Culture
The city celebrates its seafaring roots through festivals such as the Sail de Ruyter event, named after Admiral Michiel de Ruyter, one of the Netherlands’ most famous naval heroes. During summer, open-air concerts, film nights, and maritime parades bring the harbour to life, offering visitors a glimpse of Dutch coastal culture at its best.

Sites of Interest to a Sailor
From a sailor’s perspective, Flushing’s approach is one of the most striking in the southern Netherlands. The Scheldt estuary opens wide to the North Sea, with large commercial vessels sharing space with fishing boats and yachts. The wind-swept promenade, lined with lighthouses and bunkers, provides an excellent vantage point to watch ships entering and leaving port. The nearby Pilotage Museum adds depth to the area’s nautical significance.

Entertainment
Flushing has a relaxed, nautical character. The waterfront bars and cafés, particularly around the Bellamypark, are ideal for sailors looking to unwind. The CineCity cinema and local music venues add variety, while neighbouring Middelburg offers further cultural options just a short train ride away.

Eating Out
Seafood is at the heart of Zeeland’s cuisine. Local specialities include mussels, oysters, and shrimp, best enjoyed at waterfront restaurants like Restaurant De Gecroonde Liefde or De Ruyter. The city’s bakeries and brasseries also offer hearty Dutch fare, ideal after a long voyage.

Nature
Beyond the port, Zeeland’s coastline offers long, sandy beaches and quiet dunes. The Nollestrand and Dishoek beaches are close to town, ideal for swimming or walking. Cyclists can follow well-marked coastal trails, and birdwatchers will find abundant life in the nearby nature reserves of Westerschelde and Veere.

Unique Features
Flushing stands out for its working maritime character. Unlike resort towns, it remains a living port where ocean-going ships pass within metres of the sea wall. Its mix of industry, history, and seaside atmosphere captures the true spirit of a sailor’s town.

Accommodation
For those extending their stay, Hotel Arion offers sea-view rooms directly on the promenade. The City2Beach Hotel provides a comfortable, modern option in the centre. For something quieter, Bed & Breakfasts in nearby Dishoek or Zoutelande offer local charm and easy access to the beach.

Official Tourist Website
https://www.vlissingen.nl/toerisme

Weather in Flushing
Winter is cool and often breezy, averaging 4–6°C with regular rain and clear breaks. Spring brings mild weather and fresh westerly winds. Summer temperatures sit around 20°C, ideal for sailing and outdoor activity. Autumn sees more wind and occasional storms, with temperatures gradually cooling to around 10°C.

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.

How to Get There

From the UK
Travelling to Flushing is simple. The Harwich–Hook of Holland ferry connects directly with Dutch rail lines, and from Rotterdam or Amsterdam, trains run to Flushing in about two hours. Alternatively, Eurostar services from London to Rotterdam offer easy onward connections.

From Europe
Flushing is well connected by train from major Dutch cities such as Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and The Hague. Bus links from Belgium and northern France are frequent, and nearby Middelburg provides good transport connections.

From North America
Fly to Amsterdam Schiphol or Brussels. From either airport, take a train to Flushing, with travel times between two and three hours. Both routes offer frequent services and scenic views of the Dutch countryside.

From Australia
Typical routes connect via Dubai, Doha, or Singapore to Amsterdam. From there, direct trains run regularly to Flushing, taking about three hours.

Tools to Help You Save
Tools like Skyscanner’s Savings Generator can provide insights into the best booking windows for your trip, ensuring you get the most value for your money.

With these tips, planning your next trip doesn’t have to break the bank. Start early, stay flexible, and explore your options for the best results.

Kit List

What to pack for a sailing holiday on Morgenster

Included

Sailing Instruction
All meals to include refreshments throughout the day
Duvet, pillow and sheets
Hand towels

What is not Included

Waterproof jackets and trousers
Alcoholic drinks but there is a bar on board

What to Bring

Suitcases take up a lot of room in a cabin, so it is better to uses soft bags in a ship. A small rucksack for going ashore is useful.

Morgenster does not supply waterproof jackets and salopette type trousers. Please bring your own waterproof clothing.
A mix of warm and wind proof clothing.
Lots of thin layers is better than one thick layer in cold destinations.
In tropical countries - long sleeves and long trousers to protect you from the sun
Footwear on board needs a good grip and soft soles- the decks are wood or steel.
Ashore stout, waterproof walking boots are best if you are in remote places.
Morgenster has European 2 pin sockets 240 V
Cameras, chargers and video recorders
Binoculars are handy for bird watching etc.
Suntan lotion, hats, sunglasses
Dont forget any regular medication, persciption glasses and spare
Euros for bar bill
Passport, travel insurance, tickets etc
To get ashore is usually by dinghy so be prepared to get wet feet. Rubber boots or quick drying sandals - depending on the location.

Review

Adam, Jess & team, thanks for suggesting the beautiful Morgenster.

Just back from a most wonderful week's sail from Falmouth to Cherbourg via channel islands.

V.tidy, well run & brilliantly crewed boat. Skipper a 'yes you can' man, few rules, all very relaxed & Dutch. Fab sunny weather a bonus too.

Utterly magical trip.

Churrrrs,

Naomi

Thank You all, guys.

I've had a wonderful time, i've got hooked. I fell in love with the ship, the sea and sailing.

You'll be hearing from me.

Cheers,

Miki

May 2025

Online Reviews

I loved it.

I loved everything about my week. The crew were fantastic, the ship was beautiful, the singing on the deck was great fun, the dolphins were around a lot. It was brilliant!

Least enjoy - Nothing.

Why do I Sail?

I love the ocean and have always loved boats. For this particular voyage I was also researching a children's book involving mermaids and pirates!

Liz K sailed in 2017

What was the best bit?

Climbing in the rigging, unfurling the sails on the yardarm.
The cameraderie between the paid and guest crew was second to none. A fantastic atmosphere. Singing in the evenings on deck accompanied by guitar and trumpet. New Year on St Lucia, we celebrated the New Year 3 times (once for Dutch/European time, once for GMT and once for Caribbean time).
The sun glinstering off the ocean surface like a thousand shards of broken mirror.......flying fish like small humming birds skimming over the surface of the water, dolphins on New Years day: what a start to 2019!
Too wonderful to describe, a life changing experience, I want to pack in my job and sail the world! (making plans now) - Carol from Caribbean Season 2019.

Great experience, will definitely be doing it again. Climbing the rigging was the best bit. 'First time' sailor. John M July 2018

"Thank you for a very nice trip, some hours on Kattegatt this afternoon. Beautiful boat, nice and joyful captain and crew. I loved it! Wish you all a really nice trip during Tall Ships Races. And I would love to join again someday for a longer trip." Camilla A. June 2017

Thank you Harry, Mariann and all your wonderful crew for an amazing week on Morgenster. Great food Will, such patient climbing instruction Michelle, fun birthday outing Evy and lovely guests from 80 to 22 years old. So many highlights but sailing at night with sparkling dolphins at the bow was truly breathtaking!" Sue G.

Just returned from 11 days sailing round Cape Verde. The whole experience was exceptional - friendly, knowledgeable and caring crew; wonderful sailing (the 4am night watch experience was particularly magical!); interesting trips exploring the islands; and great food." Julia G-F

Thank you Harry, Marian, Joost, Rene, Hessel & Willie for a fantastic week's sailing. I'll be humming sea shanties and saying "o nay!!!" for days! I really hope to sail with you again. Happy New Year" Kerry Mc C.

Had a fantastic trip around Cape Verde, Jan/Feb 2016. Lovely crew, felt like a family. Thanks to you all xxxx. Really special people and a holiday to remember. My penguins X" Louise G

What a fantastic time, thanks to everyone on the Morgenster both crew and passengers hope to see you all again, maybe next year?" George Mc L

Harry, Marian and their crew make your stay on board the Morgenster wonderful!" Aleike K

What was the best bit?

The trip was fabulous. The crew were incredibly supportive and even helped me overcome enough of my fear to get out onto the first yard. I felt that I was included in everything and that my contribution, however small, was appreciated. The food was excellent and there were plenty of drinks and snacks throughout the day. We had gorgeous weather all the way. I really enjoyed it. - Caribbean Season 2019 by Amanda G.

Vessel Gallery

Tall Ship Morgenster in action and images. Photos from Classic Sailing customers, ships crew and professional photographers. We hope it gives a flavour of her sailing, life on board, the people that come, her beautiful sailing grounds and what it is like to live below decks.