| Embark | Disembark | Vessel | Duration | Voyage No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wed 30-04-2025, 16:00Barcelona | Mon 05-05-2025, 10:00Toulon, France | Santa Maria Manuela | 5 Nights | SM300425 V12 |
Experience five days of hands-on sailing aboard Santa Maria Manuela, from the vibrant streets of Barcelona to the historic naval port of Toulon. A luxurious journey through Mediterranean culture, coastal landscapes, and historic seafaring.
| Vessel type / Rig | Gaff Schooner |
| Guest Berths | 50 |
| Beam | 33ft |
| Draft | 18ft |
| Deck Length | 173ft |
| Overall Length | 225ft |
| Tonnage | 992 tons |
| Year Built | 1937 |
This voyage will appeal to those who seek an authentic sailing adventure combined with the comfort of a beautifully restored heritage ship. It’s ideal for anyone intrigued by Mediterranean culture, from history enthusiasts to culinary explorers and avid sailors. With hands-on sailing activities, Santa Maria Manuela allows both seasoned sailors and newcomers to experience the thrill of tall ship sailing. For those looking to unwind, there’s ample opportunity to relax on deck, savour a drink at sunset, or explore captivating coastal cities.
Your adventure begins in Barcelona, Spain’s vibrant Catalonian capital, where Gothic and modernist architecture merge to form one of Europe’s most iconic skylines. Take in the sights of the Gothic Quarter, its narrow streets steeped in history, and visit landmarks such as the Barcelona Cathedral and the famed Sagrada Família. As you leave the lively cityscape behind, Santa Maria Manuela invites you to assist with hoisting the sails, a satisfying and memorable start to your Mediterranean voyage.
The journey eastward from Barcelona to Toulon offers you the chance to experience Mediterranean beauty from the deck of a magnificent tall ship. The coastal scenery is a medley of blue waters, gentle waves, and sunlit shorelines. With luck, you might spot local wildlife, including seabirds and playful dolphins skimming the surface near the ship. Knot-tying sessions and climbing the mast—if you’re feeling adventurous—are available, enhancing your hands-on sailing experience. Each evening, unwind with your fellow shipmates, sharing stories under a Mediterranean sunset.
As Santa Maria Manuela approaches Toulon’s historic harbour, you’ll be greeted by the striking limestone formations of Mont Faron and the city’s ancient fortifications. Toulon, a city with deep naval heritage, invites exploration. Wander the old town’s charming squares and fountains or visit Cours Lafayette, where the morning market adds a splash of colour to the town. Extend your stay to explore the National Museum of the Navy, which showcases fascinating ship models from the seventeenth century, or take a cable car up Mont Faron for sweeping views of the bay.
In late April and early May, the Côte d’Azur offers gentle breezes and mild temperatures, typically ranging between 15°C and 20°C. The sea conditions are generally favourable, with calm, clear waters making for a smooth journey. The Mediterranean’s steady winds allow for an enjoyable sailing experience, ideal for both relaxation and learning the ropes. Expect sunny skies, making it perfect for time on deck, whether taking in the views or diving into sailing activities.
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. While we hope you will enjoy taking part in the many aspects of sailing a traditional ship, please be aware that we can’t control the weather – there will be occasions when the conditions are just not congruent with sailing to your anticipated destination and an alternative itinerary will be offered. There may also be occasions when there isn’t the wind needed to sail and so the crew will utilise the ships engines (if installed). On rare occasions, the voyage may need to be delayed or cancelled – please see the vessel’s Terms and Conditions before booking.
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.
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.
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.
History
From the Gothic Quarter to the intricate details of Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia, Barcelona wears its history with pride. Make it a point to visit the Picasso Museum and explore the Montjuic Castle for a view steeped in history as well as scenery.
Culture
Between the distinct Catalan traditions, contemporary art scenes, and the annual La Mercè festival, Barcelona’s culture is as vibrant as its colourful architecture. Flamenco shows? A must-see. Even if you’re not usually one for a dance and a song, the passion here might just change your mind.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor
To the sailor’s eye, the coastline offers more than just a picturesque view. The nearby Garraf Coast with its chalky cliffs, or the Costa Brava up north, tell tales of maritime lore and present-day adventure. While Barcelona doesn’t have lighthouses steeped in legend, the surrounding rugged coastline offers enough drama for any sea tale.
Entertainment
Barcelona is a city that never sleeps. From the bustling Las Ramblas to the trendy bars in the Gothic Quarter, there’s something for every stripe of night owl. Jazz clubs and beachfront bars give a good account of the city’s diverse music scene.
Eating Out
Expect an array of culinary delights from tapas bars to Michelin-starred establishments. For those with sea legs who prefer sea food, there’s no shortage of that either. And don’t even think of leaving without trying a traditional paella.
Nature
The Montserrat Mountain is a quick train ride away and offers hiking and a monastery perched high in the hills. Closer to town, the city beaches offer a less rustic kind of natural beauty.
Unique Features
Gaudí’s architecture sets Barcelona apart. A leisurely stroll in Park Güell feels like walking through a whimsical daydream.
Accommodation
Consider staying at the iconic W Barcelona or the charming Hotel Neri in the Gothic Quarter. For a relaxing experience, the Majestic Hotel & Spa offers wellness services to rejuvenate you for your next sailing adventure.
Official Tourist Website
For the most comprehensive information, visit the [Barcelona Tourist Office](https://www.barcelonaturisme.com/).
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.
UK
Direct flights from major UK airports make Barcelona easily accessible. Alternatively, you can opt for a train journey that will take you through France, with a chance to catch the scenery en route.
Europe
Barcelona is well-connected by train to various European cities like Paris, Lyon, and Zurich. Buses and coaches also provide a budget-friendly option.
North America
Several airlines operate direct flights from major cities such as New York and Toronto to Barcelona.
Australia
Though there are no direct flights, several one-stop options are available, most commonly via cities like Doha or Dubai.
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.
Toulon is a charming port city on the Mediterranean coast in the south of France, known for its rich maritime history and scenic beauty. It serves as a major naval base and is well connected, making it accessible for sailors and travellers from across Europe.
Getting to Toulon Toulon is accessible by flights from major European cities, with Toulon-Hyères Airport located about 25 minutes from the city centre. Alternatively, Marseille Provence Airport is about an hour’s drive, offering an extensive network of budget airline options. For those travelling by train, Toulon is well-connected with France’s high-speed TGV network, making it easy to reach from Paris and other cities.
The Port Area The Port of Toulon is a large and bustling harbour, hosting a range of vessels from tall ships to naval vessels and cruise ships. It has several dedicated marinas and quaysides, but like many large ports, the exact docking location of your ship can vary. Port authorities may change berthing assignments based on traffic and availability, and tall ships may not always be prioritised.
If your vessel is allocated a specific marina, we will do our best to notify you in advance. Should this be the case, you will be informed of the precise docking details as soon as we have confirmation.
Arriving at the Right Berth To help you locate your ship, we recommend taking a photo of the vessel to show to taxi drivers or Port Officers, as they’re often familiar with the layout of the port and can help you navigate efficiently (and to help with the occasional language barrier!) If you’re feeling adventurous and travelling light, it’s possible to walk from Toulon’s central bus or train stations, though keep in mind that the port area can be expansive.
A Day Out in Toulon Toulon offers a delightful mix of cultural sights, natural beauty, and Mediterranean charm, making it an excellent place for exploration. Start your day with a visit to Toulon’s Old Town, a labyrinth of narrow lanes with charming squares, markets, and Provençal architecture. Begin at Place Puget, a lively square surrounded by quaint cafes and shops.
From there, head to the morning market at Cours Lafayette. This vibrant street market is famous for its local produce, artisanal goods, and fresh seafood. Sample some Provençal olives, cheeses, or pastries and experience the authentic flavours of the region.
For a touch of culture, visit the Musée National de la Marine, located near the harbour. This fascinating museum provides insight into Toulon’s naval heritage, featuring exhibits on the French navy, shipbuilding, and maritime exploration.
Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the Mourillon district’s beautiful sandy beaches. There, you can unwind, take a dip, or enjoy lunch at one of the many seafront restaurants, where you can indulge in fresh seafood and Mediterranean fare.
In the afternoon, consider taking the cable car up Mont Faron. This scenic journey offers breathtaking views of Toulon and the surrounding coastline. At the top, there’s a memorial dedicated to the Allied landings in Provence during World War II, as well as hiking trails and panoramic viewpoints.
As the day winds down, relax with a drink at one of the cafés in the Place de la Liberté, Toulon’s main square. For dinner, savour Provençal dishes or fresh seafood at a local bistro, paired with regional wines from nearby vineyards.
Sustainable Travel Carbon Offset Schemes For those seeking to offset their carbon footprint while travelling to Toulon, there are reputable carbon offset programmes that support sustainable projects globally.
We had the most amazing time. The crew were so friendly and helpful, the food was great throughout, and the cabins were really comfortable. We both climbed the rigging as the sun was setting over Porto Santo to round off a brilliant last day with the new friends we met. Thanks for the wonderful experience.
Ian & Dayna
I have sailed many times on tall ships, this is by far the best yet.
Richard
Terrific crew and ship and a lovely passage to the Azores. Crew and guests were very good and patient with someone who only spoke English. This is a terrifically well run vessel. Excellent accommodation, well serviced by a professional crew. All very friendly, helpful and willing to give information throughout. Many opportunities to get involved in most aspects of the ships operations. Very many thanks.
Keith
An amazing ship and amazing crew.
David
We had a terrific and adventurous time on board during Sachsen Sail in the Bay of Biscay. Thank you to all Santa Maria Manuela crew members!
Mario
Un voilier merveilleux avec un équipage très sympathique. Merci pour tout.
A splendid ship with a very kind crew. Thank you for everything.
Marie-Francoise
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