2021 SEASON Sail to the lovely Isles of Scilly on a Topsail Schooner
Berth Type
Embark
Disembark
Vessel
Duration
Voyage No
Sat 22-05-2021, 14:00Plymouth, UK
Fri 28-05-2021, 08:00Falmouth, Cornwall
Johanna Lucretia
6 Nights
JL220521
A true sailors adventure week with a sail along the whole South Coast of Cornwall and off Lands End to the Isles of Scilly. Once in the Scilly Isles there are only anchorages an beach landings so these voyages have a great expeditionary feel. May is perfect for seeing ocean birds like puffins and flowers are stunning. Johanna Lucretia sails a shorter passage back to Falmouth, which is often a great down wind blast for a ship with square sails.
Voyage
Vessel
IDEAL VOYAGE FOR …
Adventurous beginners and sailors who love the mix of a coastal passage that slips down the Lizard coast with the tide and then becomes more and more offshore in character. As you cross Mounts Bay and sail beyond Lands End you can lose sight of all land and then you know you are truely out in the Atlantic Ocean. In the Scillies your landing stage is usually a beach, so if you like wild anchorages without marine type facilities then these wildlife and nature voyages are for you. For those who have not been to the Isles of Scilly expect scenery not too different from the Seychelles, glistening blue sea water, stunning deserted beaches and 360 degree panoramas from anchorages where there is no light pollution. Bird watchers, wildlife photographers, Robinson Crusoe types and sunset watchers will love this place.
Full Voyage Description
Unique group of granite islands
Sub tropical gardens, flower fields & heather moorland
Good for bird watching, dolphins and seals
Clear waters for snorkeling but bring a wetsuit!
Intricate navigation and traditional pilotage to learn
Adventurous beginners and sailors who love the mix of a coastal passage to find your sea legs, and then a short offshore passage beyond Lands End where you are truely out in the Atlantic Ocean. In the Scillies your landing stage is usually a beach, so if you like wild anchorages without marine type facilities then thes wildlife and nature voyages are for you. For those who have not been to the Isles of Scilly expect scenery not too different from the Seychelles, glistening blue sea water, stunning deserted beaches and 360 degree panoramas from anchorages where there is no light pollution. Bird watchers, wildlife photographers, Robinson Crusoe types and sunset watchers will love this place.
Full Voyage Description
Unique group of granite islands
Sub tropical gardens, flower fields & heather moorland
Good for bird watching, dolphins and seals
Clear waters for snorkeling but bring a wetsuit!
Intricate navigation and traditional pilotage to learn
100 mile passage
Dazzling white sand beaches
sailing offshore on Johanna Lucretia
Plymouth to the Isles of Scilly
Johanna Lucretia is a good choice for a voyage to the Scillies. She is big enough to be comfortable when sailing offshore. With a long waterline her cruising speed is better than smaller vessels which should give you a fast passage to the Scillies (she is similar in size to Irene). Once at anchor in a beautiful setting, whether it is the Cornwall mainland on route or the Scillies, you have wide decks and plenty of places to sit and absorb the panoramic views. Ashore you can stride out around an island, clamber around the the granite tors, bird watch or beach comb. In Spring there are puffins and shearwaters and in the late summer the seas are having their pups.
On a sailing voyage nothing is guaranteed and the sailing itinerary may not be always adhered too. Skippers will always aim for the best sailing and shore landings for the forecast including all or some of the highlights described below, but you have to go with mother nature and not fight her. The description below is based on what Classic Sailing think might be possible based on past trips and experience. The Scillies does not have a single port or anchorage that is sheltered for all wind directions so if the forecast indicates bad weather or high swell then the skipper may have to seek our alternative sailing grounds. the crew will always endeavour to provide a holiday adventure as close in spirit to a ‘Scilles’ voyage as they can.
Spot Marine Wildlife along the Way
Leaving Johanna Lucretia’s home port of Plymouth you can sail the whole length of the Cornish South Coast. Look out for dolphins and basking sharks where the tides run the fastest. Good spots are off the Lizard, Epsom Shoal, Wolf Rock, Lands End and as you approach the Scillies
Depending on the weather, Johanna Lucretia may make a stop in South Cornwall on her way to the Scillies but if the winds are perfect she may sail there in one long hop.The thrill of spotting the Isles of Scilly when this fascinating archipelago first appears over the horizon never goes away, however many times you visit. Choosing and making your destination in the Scillies is greatly cherished because not only do you arrive in style under sail but you have been part of the journey, your effort and team work has made it possible. Worth a pint in the Turks Head in fact.
Most Sw pub in England – Turks Head on St Agnes
Exploring the Isles of Scilly
By sailing west to the Isles of Scilly and anchoring in quiet bays, you will get to know this fabulous archipelago from a sailor’s point of view. You can sail among and round the rocks, from island to island, often using intricate pilotage.
Look out for Atlantic grey seals in the Western rocks or in among the kelp beds. Take the opportunity to snorkel or swim in the clear water of Scilly’s many wonderful bays, or ramble round on foot to experience the local flora and fauna.
The white glittering sands are reminiscent of the Seychelles, the turquoise waters are crystal clear, but the water temperature is refreshingly British! Exploring ashore is a key part of the holiday with tropical Tresco Abbey Gardens to visit, or you can wander lonely as a cloud over purple heathland or beach comb amongst the oystercatchers. The pilotage between the islands is complex and fascinating if you are interested in navigation.
There is NO light pollution on the Scillies so star gazing at night is exceptional and words can hardly prepare you for the sunrises and the sunsets enhancing the peace and tranquility that these beautiful islands will offer you whilst sailing on a beautiful traditional boat.
Great Bay on St Martin, Isles of Scilly
Island Life Dependant on Boats
In the Scillies there are no marinas or places, so there is a lot of getting in and out of dinghies, and the anchorages are typically remote with limited or no facilities ashore.
Photo Debbie Purser. Pilot gig racing twice a week on the Scillies
WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER
This voyage involves remote anchorages and the possibility of a bit of a roll in any swell, even in calm weather. The ship would not go to the Scillies in bad weather or big seas but it can still be quite exciting on the passage out and back. This voyage would be similar to a cross channel voyage in terms of offshore sailing. Between the islands there is some sheltered water sailing but it depends a bit on wind direction. The climate is often more sunny than the mainland and sub tropical plants grow well here.
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.
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 01872 58 00 22 and we can chat through your concerns and possibly find options that might suit you better.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Skipper & professional crew
Personal Safety Equipment
Sailing Instruction
All meals, snacks and refreshments
Port and landing fees
Linen and duvets
Third Party liability insurance
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
Travel to Joining Port
Travel from end port
Alcoholic Drinks
Towels for day use and swimming
Waterproofs
Start & End Port
Plymouth, UK
There are several marina docks in Plymouth.
For Pegasus, Johanna Lucretia and Moosk: Please meet at “the Hanger Car Park” in Plymouth Yacht Haven car park, Turnchapel. PL9 9XH (See below for directions – Parking in the marina is free.)
For Grayhound: voyages will start from Mayflower Marina, Richmond Walk. If it is any different you will be informed by the skipper before the day of arrival. She is often the only wooden masted ship in this harbour, so it will be easy to spot her three black masts. Address: Richmond Walk, Plymouth PL1 4LS. – see info below.
Mayflower Marina – for Grayhound
Mayflower Marina is to the west of the city centre, and has some long pontoons so is often used for our larger vessels. It is only about a 10 minute taxi from Plymouth Railway Station. There is secure parking within the marina for a daily parking fee.
MARINA ACCESS & ON SITE CAR PARKING
Vehicular access to the marina is restricted by a car park barrier, there is a card reader / intercom pedestal. If you do not have an access fob please follow the instructions on the intercom pedestal.
Car park charges are two hours free then £1 for 1 hour over the free period, £2 for 2 hours over the free period and then £5 for up to 22 hours after the free period. It is requested that the owners of parked cars leave their keys in the marina office in case the car has to be moved for operational reasons.
Plymouth Yacht Haven /Mountbatten Marina / Turnchapel – for Pegasus, Moosk and Johanna Lucretia
This marina has had several changes of name over the years so you may find skippers referring to it as Turnchapel / Mountbatten Marina – Allow at least 25 minutes to get from A38 Marsh Mills Roundabout Plymouth city centre exit road to Turnchapel by car. It does have FREE long term parking in the marina.
If you are travelling by public transport the most direct route is a 10 minute yellow ferry (foot passengers only) from the Barbican Pub straight to Mountbatten next to Plymouth Yacht Haven. A taxi ride all the way around the Plym estuary would be quite expensive. See Mountbatten Ferry website for ferry mobile phone or enquiries www.mountbattenferry.co.uk
The postcode for Sat Nav users is PL9 9XH /Google maps
Directions:
Turn left off A38 at Marsh Mills roundabout onto A374 signed Plymouth City Centre.
After 1 1/4 mile get into left hand lane and follow signs for Kingsbridge A379.
This takes you across Laira Bridge where you will see the first signs for Mount Batten and Turnchapel.
After crossing the Laira Bridge, at the first roundabout turn right.
At the next roundabout (mini) take the second exit, cross pedestrian lights, and continue straight on until traffic lights at crossroads.
Turn right and then go straight through a second set of lights.
Keep on this road (for approx 1 1/2 miles) until you come to a roundabout.
We now have several vessels that use Falmouth as a joining or leaving port. As every vessel is different, and we do not have our own pontoon there, all joining instructions are slightly different. Any changes will be communicated to you before your voyage start date.
This is a list of the likely joining locations for each vessel, but sometimes they can also be at anchor. It is always best to call the ship’s phone on the day.
Custom House Quay next to the Chain Locker is the usual place for joining Grayhound, Irene and Eda Frandsen.
Pendennis Marina behind the Maritime museum is the usual place for joining Agnes, Leader, Provident and Pilgrim.
Click on the two Blue Pins for more information on the joining locations on the map below:
Port Pendennis is the small marina behind the National Maritime Museum Cornwall and the nearest rail station is ‘Falmouth Town’ (3 mins walk). The Maritime Museum has a big tower like a lighthouse so aim for that and at the entrance, turn right and walk down the side of the museum. The gate to the marina is behind the museum building.
Custom House Quay is a stone quay enclosing a small wet dock in the Centre of Falmouth Town. It is used for some of the foot ferries to St Mawes in the peak summer. Only 5 minutes walk from Falmouth Town Station if you head towards the town centre. Situated at the Maritime Museum end of the high street and has its own short stay car park between Trago Mills Store and the Chain Locker Pub if you are driving (see long term parking below) and want to drop your bags first.
Falmouth Visitors Yacht Haven is about 100 yards beyond Custom House Quay but if walking from the rail station towards town it is best if you walk accross Custom House Quay short term car park and nip through the alley tunnel through the Chain Locker Pub. The yacht haven is a small marina only yards from Falmouth main shopping street (Arwenack St), tucked away down the bottom of Quay Street.
Kit List
Kit List
Included
Bed linen, duvet and pillow
Life jackets and harness lines
Offshore waterproof jackets and trousers.
What's Not Included
Alcohol to have with meals when not sailing.
What to Bring
Please limit yourself to one soft bag or rucksack (no suitcases!) as there is limited storage space on board.
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, towel, and suntan lotion.
Flat shoes with a good grip e.g. trainers or sailing deck shoes. Sailing boots or wellies as the sea can come over deck if rough.
(An alternative to boots in summer is to bring another pair of flat shoes with a good grip in case the first pair get wet).
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.
Passport for all Voyages. (UK Customs Vessels can do spot checks anywhere around the coast, even if the ship is not going abroad. If you don't have a passport please contact us for advice)
(an EHIC Form from Post Office - Reciprocal Free Health Care in Europe)
Any medication, spare spectacles. Seasick tablets - check with your Doctor, which brand if you suffer from asthma or are on medication.
Musical instruments are always welcome.
A small amount of alcohol to have onboard during meals, when not sailing.
Review
Meeting a wonderful professional crew. The boat was beautiful and the care taken to make the trip engaging, fun and exciting was brilliant. The catering was top notch and the dining arrangements ideal to chat, laugh and become friends with all on board.
The crew of the Johanna Lucretia could not have been better. High professional standards combined with a friendly welcoming approach. Who could ask for more? - By Susan L. Guest Crew 2019
Johanna Lucretia under sail by Susan Lazer
There was no 'best bit' - it was all marvellous! Loved the sailing, the food, the company, the time ashore - and we had really lovely weather, which helped!
The enthusiasm of the crew, both for the Johanna Lucretia and for the work of the Island Trust, was infectious. The fact that they clearly enjoyed sailing and teaching others how to sail made all the difference for us 'first timers'.
"Totally excellent. I can not praise the crew enough, rarely do you find four individuals so well suited to their occupation. What ever was happening they were more than willing to show and explain what was happening and what to do. I learnt a lot. The food was always brilliant even under some quite rough conditions.
It would be good if it could be arranged so as we could climb aloft to enhance the experience even further.
I will certainly be back for another voyage!" - Isles of Scilly Trip on Johanna Lucretia
Vessel Gallery
We would love to see your photos of Johanna Lucretia if you have sailed on her in her long life as a charter and sail training vessel