Azores – North Atlantic to Ullapool

Azores to Ullapool Ocean Passage Aboard Tecla

Join an extraordinary ocean passage aboard the magnificent three-masted schooner Tecla, sailing from the volcanic beauty of the Azores to the dramatic Scottish Highlands port of Ullapool. This 1,300-nautical-mile ocean passage across the North Atlantic offers an authentic tall ship experience, where you’ll become part of the crew, learning traditional sailing skills while crossing one of the ocean’s most storied routes.

Tall Ship Tecla

Horta

Your adventure begins in Horta, the historic sailing crossroads of the Atlantic. This unspoilt Azorean port town on Faial Island has welcomed ocean voyagers for centuries, and its famous marina walls are covered with paintings left by sailors from around the world. Before departure, explore the cobbled streets lined with cafes and maritime museums, visit the dramatic volcanic landscape of Capelinhos, or take a day trip to the stunning Caldeira crater. You can make it a fun day out by hiring an EV Scooter and walking around the Caldera, I thoroughly recommend it. The island’s whale-watching opportunities are exceptional, and you might spot sperm whales, dolphins, and even blue whales in these rich Atlantic waters. The local cuisine blends Portuguese traditions with Atlantic seafood, offering wonderful dining experiences before you set sail.

As Tecla departs Horta, you’ll experience the thrill of sailing away from land on a vessel that embodies over a century of maritime heritage. Built in 1915, this tough Dutch ketch has been excellently  maintained and offers a perfect blend of traditional character and modern safety standards. The passage north takes you through waters that have challenged and inspired sailors for generations, following routes once traveled by fishing fleets, explorers, and merchant vessels connecting Europe with the

New World.

Life at Sea

Life aboard Tecla quickly develops its own rhythm as you settle into the watch system and daily routines of ocean sailing. You’ll take your turn at the helm, feeling the powerful vessel respond to your touch as she surges through the Atlantic swells. Learn to set and trim the canvas, working alongside experienced crew to get the best out of the wind. The professional crew are excellent teachers, patient and encouraging as they share their knowledge of navigation, seamanship, and the ways of the sea.

The ocean crossing itself is an immersive experience that few people ever encounter in our modern world. Days unfold with a timeless quality as you disconnect from the rush of daily life and attune yourself to the natural rhythms of wind, weather, and the movement of the vessel. Watch the sunrise paint the eastern horizon in brilliant colours, spend afternoons reading in a sheltered corner of the deck, and gather for communal meals where stories and laughter flow freely. The night watches hold a special magic, with darkness revealing the Milky Way in breathtaking clarity and bioluminescence sparkling in the bow wave. You might spot whales breaching, dolphins riding the bow wave, or seabirds that follow the ship for days, each sighting a reminder of the ocean’s abundant life.

What is ‘Hands on Sailing’ ?

Weather permitting, the itinerary follows a northeasterly course, though the captain will adapt the route to make best use of wind and weather conditions to ensure a safe and timely passage. The changeable weather  conditions provide excellent learning opportunities as the crew adjusts sail configurations and you gain practical experience in handling a traditional vessel through varied sea states.

As you grow closer to the United Kingdom and Ireland you leave the deep waters of the Atlantic Ocean and sail over the continental shelf that sailors call the Western Approaches. Your first sighting of land could be the Isles of Scilly, Fastnet or the Pembroke Peninsula of Wales. Who knows? It’s all part of the excitement of a landfall!   

Now you are entering the Irish Sea with Wales to the East and Ireland to the west, somewhere there is also the Isle of Man. Next on your way is the St Georges Channel where Northern Ireland nearly meets Scotland. The skipper will be looking to catch the strong north going tide before it sets against you.#

Through St George’s Channel

The towering peaks of the Scottish Highlands are now all around you as their dramatic profiles create one of Britain’s most spectacular coastlines. Sail though the Western Isles and the Minches before Tecla navigates through the entrance to Loch Broom, a sea loch that cuts deep into the mountainous landscape, its shores rising steeply from the water’s edge as you  finally arrive in harbour at Ullapool.

Ullapool

Your arrival in Ullapool marks the triumphant conclusion of your Atlantic crossing. This picturesque fishing village, laid out in a grid pattern by the British Fisheries Society in 1788, sits on a sheltered bay with stunning views across the loch to the mountains beyond. The white-washed buildings lining the waterfront create a welcoming sight after days at sea. As you secure Tecla alongside the harbour wall, there’s a profound sense of achievement that comes from having crossed an ocean by sail. Consider extending your stay to explore this gateway to the Scottish Highlands. Walk the nearby Munros, visit the pristine beaches of the Outer Hebrides via the ferry from Ullapool, or simply enjoy the warm hospitality of the local pubs where you can share tales of your voyage over a dram of Highland whisky. The surrounding landscape offers countless hiking opportunities, from gentle coastal walks to challenging mountain climbs, all showcasing the raw beauty of northwest Scotland.

Likely Weather

This voyage typically takes place in late spring or early summer when the North Atlantic weather patterns are most favorable for northward passages. During this season, you can expect moderate temperatures ranging from 15-20 degrees Celsius, though conditions can be variable and the Atlantic can present anything from calm seas to challenging weather that tests both vessel and crew. The longer daylight hours of the northern latitudes mean extended time on deck to enjoy the sailing. All itineraries are subject to weather conditions and the captain’s judgment, as safety and the wellbeing of all aboard remain the primary considerations. However, the start and end port dates and times are fixed elements of the voyage.

Whether you’re an experienced sailor seeking an ocean passage or a newcomer eager to learn traditional seamanship, this voyage aboard Tecla offers an unparalleled adventure. The combination of serious offshore sailing, genuine crew participation, and the timeless beauty of a classic vessel creates memories that last a lifetime.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What level of sailing experience do I need for this voyage?

No previous sailing experience is required for the Azores to Ullapool passage on Tecla. The professional crew will teach you all necessary skills, from basic rope handling to helmsmanship and sail setting. Experienced sailors are equally welcome and will have opportunities to develop their offshore passage-making skills. Everyone participates according to their ability and comfort level, with the crew ensuring all guests feel confident and engaged throughout the voyage.

Look here for My First Voyage

How long does the voyage take and how many nights will we spend at sea?

The passage from the Azores to Ullapool covers approximately 1,300 nautical miles and typically takes 14 days depending on weather and wind conditions. You will spend all nights aboard at sea during this ocean crossing, making it a true blue-water sailing experience. The exact duration can vary as the captain will choose the most favorable route and may adjust speed to ensure comfortable sailing conditions.

See our article on Ocean Passages

What are the sleeping arrangements and facilities like aboard Tecla?

Tecla accommodates up to 12 guests in comfortable twin ensuite cabins below deck. Each cabin has its own private bathroom facilities, and berths are equipped with reading lights and storage for personal belongings. The main saloon serves as a communal gathering space for meals, relaxation, and socializing. While traditional in character, the ship meets modern safety standards and provides a cozy, atmospheric environment for your ocean passage.

What is the watch system and daily routine like during the passage?

The crew operates on a watch system, typically rotating every 4 hours, which ensures the vessel is always properly crewed day and night. You’ll be assigned to a watch team and will participate in steering, lookout duties, and sail handling under the guidance of professional crew members. Between watches, you’ll have time for rest, reading, and enjoying life aboard. Meals are served at set times and everyone gathers in the saloon, creating a strong sense of community. The rhythm of watch-keeping creates a unique experience of timelessness and connection to traditional seafaring.

What should I bring and what are the weather conditions likely to be?

Pack layers of warm, waterproof clothing as North Atlantic weather can be changeable and cooler than the Azores, especially as you sail north. Essential items include waterproof jacket and trousers, warm fleece or woolens, non-slip deck shoes, sun protection, and personal toiletries. The vessel provides safety equipment including harnesses and lifejackets. Late spring and early summer offer the most favorable conditions with moderate temperatures and longer daylight hours, though you should be prepared for potential rain and variable winds. A detailed packing list is shown below.

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 very 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.

 

 

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Not all sailing areas require the same gear, the same foul weather equipment or even the same shorts. But some items you must always bring. In this kit list we hope to give you a small insight in what to bring, but of course, please consider this list might not encumber all that you would wish to take!
Very important is that your bag or small suitcase needs to be stored in the room, under your bed, there is limited space – so bring a foldable bag! the following is Tecla's standard included/excluded and kit list. Below this you can find more specific info and kit lists dependant on sailing area.

What's Included (Standard)

• Coffee and tea
• Blanket, sheets, pillow and covers (for longer voyages there will be clean bed linen)
• 3-4 crew members guiding the group
• 1 towel
• For longer voyages you can wash clothes once halfway through the voyage

What's not Included (Standard)

• Soda and alcoholic drinks 
• Landing fees and Paid excursions ashore
• Transfer to and from the vessel
• Visa if needed
• You can not wash clothes on board on shorter voyages

What should you always bring

• Soap (preferably parabens and plastic free)
• Tooth brush & Toothpaste
• Comfortable clothing
• Socks (at least until halfway through the voyage)
• Underwear (at least until halfway through the voyage)
• Binoculars (if you like bird watching, we have a pair on board, but it stays in the back close
  to the navigational area, it does not go on hikes)
• Sunscreen
• Photocamera (or you can ask other guests for their pictures)
• Chargers for electrical equipment – there is 220v with central European plugs and a usb
  plug in the cabin
• Day pack rug sack or small bag for hikes.
• Water bottle for hikes
• A good mood and an open mind
• Passport
• Visa if required
• Valid Insurance papers
• Personal Medicines
• Seasickness pills if you need them

Ocean Crossing

When the ocean crossing is not part of the Southern Ocean sailing (so no South Georgia or Antarctica included) the crossings are usually in warm weather. Going from North to South, please be advised that the weather in the Falkland Islands is cool and wet! So also bring at
least one set of warm clothing.

• Waterproof jacket (can be sailing gear, but hiking gear, light weight jackets are very nice as well)
• Waterproof pants
• T shirts (at least 5)
• Shorts (at least 2)
• Long pants
• Light / cool footwear with grip on deck (can be flipflops or sandles)
• Waterproof boots / footwear
• Swimming outfit
• Sunhat
• Merino wool thermal wear (can be light weight)
• Water bottle (yes it said so in what always to bring, but during warm days, this is really a must!)

Greenland & Iceland

If there are any items you usually take on your hikes, and they are easy to take in your luggage, don’t forget to bring them!

• Hiking waterproof pant
• Hiking waterproof jacket
• Wool sweater
• A lightweight down jacket can be very nice
• Warm head wear
• Buff or neck scarf
• Gloves against the cold, not necessarily for sailing
• Long pants
• T Shirt
• Sweater
• Merino Wool full under layer (at least 1 full set, depending on length voyage, 2 sets)
  

Falkland, South Georgia & Antarctica

On the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Antarctica there are different levels of Bio-Security we will have to comply with. To make it easy on yourself we recommend you bring one set of hiking gear that you would like to use on shore, that is completely cleaned at home. This means Velcro is cleaned and does not contain any seeds or pollen. Your pockets are empty of any seeds, pollen, sand etc. Your boots are cleaned, no sand or mud on them.
This way, getting ready for the first landing becomes a walk in the park. For more information on Bio Security, please contact us.

These surroundings can be very cold, especially on longer watches. And also because these areas are protected, we ask you to take at least two sets of wet weather gear, with one of them at least completely clean. If you have sailing gear, perfect, but also bring some light weight, waterproof hiking gear. We recommend goretex pro of any brand. This is tough and durable. Often easy to clean and light weight.

For the cold

• Merino wool 180/200gr thermal underwear (at least 3 sets)
• Down jacket (if possible 800/900gr filling is the best)
• Down jacket (700gr) or windstopper jacket
• Woolen sweater
• Warm head wear
• Buff or neck scarf
• Gloves against the cold, not necessarily for sailing (two pairs)
  

For the Rain

• Waterproof footwear
• Waterproof hiking footwear
• Waterproof hiking jacket
• Waterproof hiking pants

In the cold, making layers is important. If there is no rain, most 800gr down jackets with a merino wool layer underneath are warm enough. If it rains, most jackets do not fit over the down jacket. Therefore we recommend layer one merino wool, layer two a woollen sweater, layer three a thinner down jacket or wind stopper and layer four your water proof jacket.

Of course we understand that not everybody has these items in their closet. Please contact us if you are unsure what to pack.

North West Passage or Taste of the North West Passage

Summer in the Northern Territories of Canada can be cold, but they can be beautiful and warm as well. During the 2019 voyage we have had days of 2 degrees and days of 19 degrees. We had nights of 0 degrees, but also nights with a warm land breeze, where a woollen sweater and merino under layer were enough.

• Hiking waterproof pants
• Hiking waterproof jacket
• Wool sweater
• Warm head wear
• Buff or neck scarf
• Gloves against the cold, not necessarily for sailing
• Long pants
• T Shirt
• Sweater
• Merino Wool full under layer (at least 3 full sets)
• Down jacket (if possible 800/900gr filling is the best)
• Down jacket (700gr) or windstopper jacket
• Waterproof boots
• Hiking shoes

Tecla a Taste of the North West Passage 2024

Glad you liked our journey!

Feel free to post a link so others may see.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X06b4Xfs0hc

Have a great new year!!!

All the Best, Carr Clifton

This trip fulfilled my desire for adventure sailing as we transited the north coast of Iceland, along the Arctic Circle. Even though it was rough, the boat and crew performed admirably.

Bruce

An enjoyable week in less than ideal weather conditions. The crew were competent and friendly, the catering excellent. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend a voyage on Tecla.

Jonathan

A great mix of sailing in Scottish waters, some super hikes and an opportunity to see some of the immensely important historical sites in the Orkneys and Sheltands.  

Mooring alongside in the Fair Isles was a great privilege.  

The ocean passage to the Faroes was quiet but as a result we were blessed with clear skies whilst slinking in and out of the islands and some of the best coastal views one could hope to see anywhere.  

The ocean passage to Iceland was a bit of a bimble until we were 60 miles off and then it got exciting.  Thanks to a great skipper and permanent crew we snuggled into a fjord whilst the cruise ship ran aground in Reykjavik harbour.  A good holiday, an adventure and fun.

K

Any initial doubts as to the number and experience of the crew were very quickly dispelled and we were impressed with the knowledge and the handling skills of the skipper and the 2 mates. Every opportunity was taken to enhance our enjoyment on both voyages and at every stage we were made to feel relaxed and under no obligation to crew the ship under sometimes testing (but enjoyable) conditions. As an observation, we must congratulate the skipper for her culinary skills under difficult conditions..........the food was perfect for the voyage.

Geoff

A delight. A competent and engaging professional crew, an interesting voyage with some challenges and some great rewards. Good companions to make the log spin around.

Mike

Brilliant. I would do it again tomorrow. And good value too. The food was excellent. I loved the spicy meatballs and my wife loved the fresh langoustines.

Steve

Most enjoyable classic sailing with great food, a true sense of teamwork, great guidance and a good sense of humour. Can't get any better. 

Thomas

Globe trotting Tall Ship Tecla in action and images. This historic gaff ketch is our Polar Specialist, with expeditions to Antarctica and through the Northwest Passage, but she also has fantastic voyages in sunnier climes. 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.