Pilgrim is on her summer holidays in Cornish waters for a change. Set as many red sails as possible and turn a few heads along the Roseland and Lizard coastlines. The open bays along this unspoilt and rugged coast provide numerous anchorages for big sailing ships and drowned river valleys are an ideal playground for a sailing trawler with a deep keel.
Voyage
Vessel
VOYAGE HIGHLIGHTS
74ft length on deck historic sailing trawler
South West expert.
Friendly and helpful instruction
Freshly cooked food and accommodation all onboard.
Cornwall provides a great opportunity to see the Cornish coastline at its best. As Pilgrim has wide decks and professional team to take the helm and to help raise the sails this is a perfect voyage for beginners and experienced sailors alike.
VOYAGE HIGHLIGHTS
74ft length on deck historic sailing trawler
South West expert.
Friendly and helpful instruction
Freshly cooked food and accommodation all onboard.
Comfortable berths
FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION
Pilgrim Brixham Trawler
Pilgrim is a regular visitor to Falmouth and the West Country and the crew are very much at home in the Cornish waters and she is often seen sailing along the south west coast and always receives a warm welcome when visiting local ports. She can take up to 10 guest crew and there is plenty of room for all on her wide decks.
On a sailing voyage we never use the word itinerary, as skippers will always be aiming for the best sailing and shore landings for the forecast and most idyllic or sheltered anchors and ports. They are as keen as you to include some of the highlights described, but you have to go with Mother Nature, not fight her. The description below is based on what we think might be possible, based on past trips, or experience, but no destination is guaranteed on a sailing voyage.
Joining and departing Pilgrim in Falmouth, a historic and active port, have a look around the area before you board, visit the National Maritime Museum Cornwall or the Tudor Pendennis Castle overlooking the Fal.
From Falmouth, the opportunities of where to sail are endless, you might head up the Fal and explore the river, or anchor in the picturesque Helford River. If the conditions suit, you might make your way east to Fowey and Polruan. The two towns of Fowey and lesser known Polruan sit on opposite banks. Both have narrow streets, quaint pubs with great river views, and plenty to see on the water.
Although there is no fixed itinerary, you will most likely explore the coastline, visit secluded anchorages, have chance to wander ashore in seaside villages and towns as well as sit back and relax on board this wonderful vessel as she sails. Under full sail Pilgrim is quite a spectacle and in heavier winds, her versatile ketch rig ensures she is well balanced for all conditions.
WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER
The Lizard Peninsula protects Falmouth Bay from much of the SW swell, and if the wind blows from the North West or North you have plenty of flat water sailing all along the coast from Lands End to Plymouth. The drowned river valleys or rias offer a tranquil escape if conditions off the coast get a bit too sporting. Tucked up the Fal, Helford or Fowey river you can enjoy the wildlife in the oak woods and salt marshes or find a waterside inn.
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
Waterproofs
Start & End Port
Falmouth, Cornwall
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, but sometimes the ship can also be at anchor. Read the vessel’s joining instructions carefully for full details.
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.
All meals to include refreshments throughout the day
Bed linen, duvet, pillows
What is not included
Waterproof jacket and trousers
Alcoholic beverages
Towels
What to Bring
Please limit yourself to one soft bag or rucksack as there is limited storage space on board. No suitcases please!
Pilgrim does not provide waterproofs. So you need to bring waterproof jacket and trousers These don't have to be sailing waterproofs. Any good outdoor waterproofs should keep you warm and dry. If you are sailing on a longer voyage or in early spring or autumn you will find the sailing or mountaineering salopette type waterproof trousers will keep you warmer than walking trousers with waist. If you need any advice please ring us on 01872 580022
Waterproof jacket and trousers
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.
Scillies trips – Walking boots are useful and can be these can be worn on Pilgrims deck too
A small rucksack is useful for going ashore – especially on sailing and walking and Scillies voyages.
Camera, binoculars, sketchbook, a relaxing read.
Passport for French Voyages, Reciprocal Free Health Care card in Europe.
Please bring a passport on French trips or any 6 day voyage like Scillies where France could be an alternative venue.
Any medication, spare spectacles. Seasick tablets - check with your Doctor, which brand if you suffer asthma or are on medication.
RYA Cruising Logbook or similar if you want to log your sailing experience e.g. sea miles, night hours
Musical instruments are always welcome.
Pilgrim does not always have wine bottles for sale on board so you are welcome to bring modest quantities of alcohol e.g. to drink with evening meals, but drinking whilst sailing is not allowed.
Review
.
Summer 2019
Did you think of the Captain/Skipper and the paid crew?
Excellent
What did you think of the food quality?
Excellent
How was the sailing?
Just right
Did you have any rough weather?
None
Did you feel the voyage had?
A good mix of sailing and ashore.
What was the best bit?
Sailing on Pilgrim was amazing I loved every moment, she is totally beautiful!
Swimming ashore and snorkelling from Pilgrim to the beach.
Building a fire and BBQ on the beach!
Hoisting the main and all singing “ what shall we do with the drunken sailor”!!!!
What was the worst bit?
Having to leave Pilgrim and return to life back on land at the end of our adventure!
Saying goodbye to the amazing crew and new friends, I had such a great time with a great bunch of people, I needed a longer voyage and really didn’t want it to end!
Why do you sail? It really helps us to know your specific reasons.required
I have sailed all my life with my Dad, he had various boats over the years and I have such happy memories of our holidays onboard.
I love the freedom and peace being on the water and being propelled by the wind, it’s so natural and relaxing. I’m completely stress free and in my comfort zone aboard, I cherished every moment.
Any other comments
I couldn’t recommend my experience of crewing on Pilgrim enough. Skipper Richard, first mate and chef Julie, Bruce and Bob were all so professional, calm and such great company.
Being aboard a beautiful classic ship is such a privilege, it’s a total joy to be part of her crew! I’m missing it every day and looking forward to planning another adventure next year! - Thanks Di for the great review! Summer 2019
Di F . Pilgrim
Summer 2019
What was the best bit?
Helping to set sails, handling ropes and being looked after by a very friendly Skipper and crew, in particular by Lynn who made us very welcome and kept informed of everything happening on the boat. Although I am a BCU coach for Canoe/Kayak it was an experience not to be missed. Thank you all for a very enjoyable days sailing. - By Peter B. Summer 2019
Summer 2019
What I enjoyed the most was?
Every bit from the moment I stepped aboard I was among friends.
The worst bit was?
Getting my sea legs on the first day !
Why do you sail?
I sail for the adventure, the comradery, the hands on experience of sailing, to visit new places to have fun and create great memories.
Voyage Summary
The first time I sailed on Pilgrim (2018)I had the best time ever. I booked a second voyage this year and it was even better. I can't wait to for the next time.
Sailing on Pilgrim isn't just a holiday it's an adventure full of new experiences, friendship, laughter and fun.
Kate T June 2019
For the sheer joy!
What was the best bit?
Heading away from shore far enough to catch the wind which in any case obliged in the afternoon by increasing
What was the worst bit?
Thinking we might be becalmed initially in Brixham harbour
Why do you sail?
For the sheer joy of being on the water
Any other comments
A super day assisted by lovely sun and cloud - By Penny D - Summer 2019
For the Thrills and Excitement!
"I had a fantastic few days sailing on the pilgrim, the experience was well past my expectations and this was the result of the crew. The skipper, Richard clearly very experienced and dedicated to everyone’s safety and enjoyment. The first mate, Julia who works tirelessly to ensure everyone is safe, clearly very experienced and knowledgeable in sailing the pilgrim, also very focused and dedicated because not only is Julia the first mate she is the cook, where here she dedicates herself too ensure everyone is well fed with some fantastic food.. a real hard worker and a credit to pilgrim. Crewmen, Bruce.. smashing guy who also is dedicated in ensuring everyone on board is safe and having fun. Crewmen, Bob.. smashing guy the same dedication ensuring the safety of everyone, however needs much more practice in playing the penny whistle.. Crewmen, Tanya.. who herself is recent to pilgrim clearly dedicated to her roll ensuring we on board were safe and enjoying the experience.. A fantastic crew who all work very hard in making this an unforgettable experience.." - April 2019
Best bits: THE FORCE 9 GUST AT THE APPS TO SALCOMBE. ABOUT TURN AND HAD A GOOD RUN BACK TO DARTMOUTH. HELMING THE BEAST. GREAT SHIP,CREW AND A VERY GOOD SKIPPER, AND A BIG THANK YOU TO LINDA IN THE GALLEY" - Eddie P Review April 2019.
Eddie P - Pilgrim Guest Feedback Photo
Relax and de-stress
Wow, what can I say about my first trip on the beautiful Pilgrim with Classic Sailing - it was amazing! I am still smiling about the utterly brilliant weekend. The Skipper Richard and crew of Colin, Lynda, Jess and Jack could not of made me feel more welcome! I booked this trip as a bit of an escape from the day to day normal life on the land and it was well worth it; I returned home more relaxed, a little sunburnt but wanting to just jump straight back on board! It was great fun being allowed to be involved with raising the sails and learning a little bit of history about the vessel. If you are thinking about booking a voyage, be in a day trip, weekend or longer....do it! I could not recommend it more highly and as a single traveller I also felt at ease and safe while on the whole voyage. And the wonderful crew could cater gluten and dairy free. The added bonus of it being the Falmouth Classic and Sea Shanty Festival meant there was music and a little rum to go around!" - By Kate R - Summer 2019
Early morning light, photo by guest crew member Kate.
“50th Birthday, Pirate Party!! Arrgh.....”
"I hired the Pilgrim for my birthday party in October. It was brilliant, fantastic I could not have wished for better. We had the hot buffet and it surpassed all my expectations I had assumed that it would be catering packs of ready made dishes! It was NOT, it was all homemade and delicious. The crew couldn't do enough for us and made the day even more special. If you want to do something a bit different for a big birthday and something that your guests will talk about for a long time then I would highly recommend The Pilgrim as a venue." Sophie H - Private Charter - 2017
Another wonderful trip with a brilliant crew for hospitality
Pilgrim is a fantastic heritage restoration project that deserves everyone's support. I have sailed on her twice now and on both occasions the party has had a most wonderful experience sailing experience. The crew members are all very professional and caring and skipper Brendan a joy who keeps everyone engaged and involved. Pilgrim is a solid construction with plenty o interest or everyone. Get out there and appreciate her" Terry H, Trip Advisor Report Reviewed September 2, 2016
“Best Birthday Ever”
This trip was one of the best experiences of my life and something I will never forget. From turning up a little late (us not the crew) and them waiting to go through everything until we were totally happy through to the helping us off the boat! Safety brief provided and we were then told to get stuck in, hoisting sails and pulling ropes, learning about the boat and sea. Food was wonderful and very tasty. Beds were comfy and you could hardly tell you were on the sea! (Weather dependant I'd imagine!) Crew were faultless and very knowledgable about the boat and it's history and you can tell they have a true passion for their jobs. I would certainly return again and will be recommending to all I know! From a very Happy Birthday Girl! Tashargh, comment by mobile phone Aug 2016
“One Way Trip to Falmouth from Brixham”
I returned last night from an amazing sailing experience, from Brixham to Falmouth. All the crew were amazing. Brendon the Skipper, young but extremely knowledgeable and happy to take time to share his experiences, Linda did her fair share of hauling ropes and sails as well as providing all refreshments and meals as if by magic!! We had two overnight stays on board, one in Salcombe and one meandering up the Fowey past the Ferry and Daphne du Maurier's house waking to atmospheric mist!! We experienced all weathers and all seas!!! I really missed the Pilgrim today and wish I had been able to carry on to the Scilly Isles and hope to take another longer trip in the future." Thank Wendy F, Reviewed August 7, 2016
Vessel Gallery
Restored Brixham Sailing Trawler Pilgrim 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.
