| Embark | Disembark | Vessel | Duration | Voyage No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mon 24-03-2025, 16:00Fuerteventura | Sat 29-03-2025, 10:00Santa Cruz, Tenerife | Santa Maria Manuela | 5 Nights | SM240325 V05 |
Discover the Canary Islands aboard the heritage schooner Santa Maria Manuela, sailing from Fuerteventura to Tenerife. This voyage offers hands-on sailing, scenic island stops, and unforgettable Atlantic views.
| 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 resonate with those seeking a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery aboard an elegant, four-masted heritage schooner. If you’re keen to experience life at sea, the crew on Santa Maria Manuela will guide you in sail handling, helming, and learning classic maritime skills. Those who enjoy natural landscapes will find this voyage especially appealing, with opportunities to witness the varied beauty of the Canaries, from Fuerteventura’s golden beaches to La Gomera’s green ravines and Tenerife’s volcanic vistas. It’s also ideal for individuals looking to escape the bustle of traditional tourist hotspots and immerse themselves in the serene charm of lesser-known islands.
Your journey begins on the tranquil shores of Fuerteventura, where the Santa Maria Manuela awaits. This island is renowned for its pristine beaches and striking volcanic landscapes. Take time to enjoy the sweeping dunes and turquoise waters of Corralejo Natural Park, a breathtaking prelude to the adventure ahead. Onboard, the crew will welcome you and introduce the vessel, allowing you to settle in before heading out into the Atlantic, ready to experience the rhythms of life at sea.
As Santa Maria Manuela sails along Fuerteventura’s coast, you’ll be treated to an uninterrupted view of the island’s unique, almost otherworldly landscapes. The crew will offer guidance and insight into traditional sailing techniques, so you’ll have a chance to take the helm or help hoist the sails as we navigate toward La Gomera. This stretch of the Atlantic may bring sightings of marine wildlife, including playful dolphins and the occasional whale, reminding you of the vast and wild ocean world beneath the waves.
Upon reaching La Gomera, the scene changes dramatically. This island’s rugged terrain, green valleys, and ancient laurel forests present a stark contrast to the sun-drenched beaches of Fuerteventura. Spend time exploring La Gomera’s quiet villages like Agulo, where traditional Canarian charm is alive and well, or wander the Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its thick, misty forests and impressive hiking trails.
As you leave La Gomera, the silhouette of Tenerife’s towering Mount Teide dominates the horizon. This volcanic peak, Spain’s highest, provides a striking backdrop for the final leg of the voyage, guiding you into Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
The journey concludes in Tenerife’s capital, Santa Cruz, known for its welcoming atmosphere and rich cultural offerings. If you have the chance to extend your stay, take time to explore San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a historic city with beautiful colonial architecture and cobbled streets. Alternatively, head to Mount Teide for a closer look at the island’s volcanic landscape, with trails offering panoramic views across the Canaries. Santa Cruz itself also has plenty to offer, from local markets to vibrant bars and restaurants where you can enjoy Canarian specialities such as gofio and papas arrugadas with mojo sauce.
March in the Canary Islands brings mild, enjoyable conditions with temperatures generally ranging from 18°C to 23°C. While the skies are mostly clear, occasional light showers may pass through, adding a fresh ocean scent to the air. The Atlantic waters here are generally calm, though this time of year can sometimes bring a moderate breeze, perfect for sailing. These conditions make for comfortable passage-making and delightful sailing, with steady winds that are suitable for newcomers and seasoned sailors alike.
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.
Flights to Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura is well connected with affordable flights from across Europe, as it’s a beloved winter sun destination. Regular flights, often including those from regional airports, make it accessible for international travellers, and discount airlines frequently serve the island. Check your flight options in advance, as Fuerteventura receives visitors from around Europe year-round.
Arriving at Puerto del Rosario
Puerto del Rosario’s harbour is one of the main ports in Fuerteventura, with ample space but limited dedicated berths for tall ships, as larger cruise liners and commercial vessels generally take precedence. Captains may have to dock at whichever berth the port authorities allocate, which could vary. This flexibility is essential when planning your arrival.
To ensure a smooth boarding process, consider booking a flight that arrives well before your embarkation time. Arriving a day early and staying in a local hotel is often wise to avoid any last-minute rush or delays.
Smaller vessels may be able to berth at designated marinas, where finding the ship is more straightforward, and we can provide precise docking details in advance.
Docking Information
As with many ports, the exact berth assignment in Puerto del Rosario is usually finalised a few days before arrival and may be subject to change. We’ll update you as soon as the port authorities confirm your vessel’s location. Be sure to keep your confirmation email handy, especially the ship’s contact number, to ensure seamless communication on the day.
Take a Photo of Your Ship
For ease, carry a photo of your ship, particularly if you plan to use a taxi to reach the berth. Taxi drivers will likely be familiar with the quickest route through the port’s complex layout. If you’re walking from the main bus station with luggage, plan your route carefully or ask locals for directions to avoid any unnecessary detours.
A Day Out in Puerto del Rosario
Begin your day in Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura’s vibrant capital, with a stroll along the waterfront. You’ll find a relaxed promenade with views across the Atlantic and an array of sculptures and street art showcasing local culture. Pause at one of the many sea-facing cafés for breakfast or a mid-morning coffee while taking in the ocean breeze.
Next, venture into the town’s commercial centre, where you’ll discover artisan shops and boutiques offering everything from hand-crafted goods to local fashion. The town’s main market, Mercado Municipal, is the place to sample Fuerteventura’s unique produce, including local cheeses and seasonal vegetables.
For a cultural touch, visit the Miguel de Unamuno House Museum, dedicated to the writer’s time in exile on the island. The museum provides insight into the island’s history and literary heritage, adding a reflective note to your day. Art enthusiasts may also enjoy the Sculptures Park, an outdoor collection of works by Canarian artists scattered throughout the town.
If you fancy some time on the beach, Playa Chica is a short walk from the port. With calm, clear waters and golden sands, it’s ideal for a quick swim or a leisurely beachside walk.
When it’s time for lunch, try one of the town’s local restaurants for Canarian seafood specialities or traditional “papas arrugadas” (wrinkled potatoes) with “mojo” sauce, a signature Fuerteventura dish. Fresh seafood, including octopus and local fish, is a staple here and pairs well with a local wine.
As the day winds down, make your way back along the harbour promenade, where you’ll have panoramic views of the setting sun. In the evening, choose from a variety of local eateries, each offering a blend of Spanish, Canarian, and international cuisine. For a taste of the island’s charm, finish with a cocktail or a glass of wine under the stars.
Sustainable Travel Carbon Offset Schemes
Your travel to Fuerteventura can be made more sustainable by supporting carbon offset schemes. Here are some options:
If any provided links change or do not work, please let us know so we can keep this information updated. Safe travels, and enjoy Fuerteventura’s unique blend of culture and natural beauty.
There are cheap flights to Tenerife from all over Europe as it is a major winter sun holiday destination. You can probably find a flight from regional airports too. There are too many discount airline options to mention.
The harbour in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is huge, with two marinas and miles of harbour wall and quaysides for cruise ships and bigger tall ships. Berths for tall ships are small fry for the port authorities as the bigger more profitable ships get priority, so the sailing ships captain will have to go where ever the port authority puts them, and they may not get to stay there for very long.
Please book a flight that gets in at a sensible time for you to get to the ship on time, even if it means getting there the day before and booking into a hotel.
If your vessel is small enough to get into one of the marinas then we can usually be a bit more specific as to where to find the ship beforehand.
The ships exact location in port is often controlled by the port authorities and they will only allocate a docking position a few days before. You will be informed as soon as possible of their exact joining location.
Any changes will be communicated to you before your voyage start date. Make sure you make a note of the ship’s number found in your confirmation email in case of any problems on the day.
Take a Photo of your Ship
We recommend you take a photo of your ship with you to show taxi drivers so they can get to to the right ship!
You can usually see the ships masts on the other side of the harbour, but the taxi drivers will know the shortest route to get to that berth. If you are the independent type with a rucksack walking from the bus depot, chose your route with care, or ask a local, or you could end up walking miles without finding the cruise ship / public entry to the dock.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital city of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, offers a fantastic range of activities and attractions for a memorable day out. Here’s a description of a day in Santa Cruz de Tenerife:
Start your day by exploring the vibrant city center. Take a stroll along the wide avenues and admire the beautiful architecture, blending traditional Spanish and modern styles. Begin at Plaza de España, a picturesque square with a large artificial lake that reflects the surrounding buildings. Enjoy the lush gardens and fountains while savoring a leisurely breakfast at one of the nearby cafés.
Next, head towards the iconic Auditorio de Tenerife, a stunning architectural masterpiece known for its unique design resembling a giant wave or a sail. Take a moment to appreciate the grandeur of this concert hall and capture some photos of the magnificent structure against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean.
From there, make your way to the bustling Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África, a lively market where locals gather to buy fresh produce, meats, and other goods. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, sample local fruits, and perhaps purchase some traditional Canarian products or souvenirs.
For a touch of culture, visit the Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre (Museum of Nature and Man), located in the heart of the city. This fascinating museum showcases the natural and cultural history of the Canary Islands, featuring exhibits on archaeology, anthropology, and the unique flora and fauna of the archipelago. Explore the collections, including mummies, Guanche artifacts, and interactive displays that provide insight into the islands’ rich heritage.
Afterward, take a short stroll to the Parque García Sanabria, a lush urban park filled with exotic plants, sculptures, and colorful flower beds. Find a shaded spot and relax, or perhaps grab a snack from one of the park’s cafes while enjoying the tranquil ambiance.
To satisfy your appetite, head to the coastal area of Santa Cruz and indulge in a seafood lunch at one of the local restaurants. Try some of the freshly caught fish, octopus, or Canarian-style potatoes known as “papas arrugadas.”
In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, enjoying the refreshing sea breeze and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. If you’re up for some shopping, browse the numerous boutiques and department stores lining the streets, offering everything from designer brands to unique local crafts.
As the day draws to a close, make your way to the Parque Marítimo César Manrique, a stunning saltwater swimming complex designed by the renowned Canarian artist César Manrique. Relax in the sun, swim in the crystalline pools, or unwind in the jacuzzis, all while admiring the striking architecture and surrounding palm trees.
Finally, end your day by savoring a delicious dinner at one of Santa Cruz’s many restaurants, where you can indulge in a variety of international cuisines or savor traditional Canarian dishes. Pair your meal with a local wine or a refreshing tropical cocktail to complement the flavors.
With its vibrant atmosphere, cultural attractions, delightful cuisine, and beautiful coastal setting, a day out in Santa Cruz de Tenerife promises to be a delightful and enriching experience.
By selecting sustainable travel options and actively participating in carbon offset initiatives, you can make a positive impact while journeying to or from your voyage.
Here are some suggestions for carbon offset websites.
UK: One popular carbon offset website in the UK is “Clear” who offer a range of carbon offset projects and solutions for individuals, businesses, and organisations. They provide detailed information about their projects and allow users to calculate and offset their carbon footprint online.
North America: In North America, “Terrapass” is a well-known carbon offset website. Terrapass offers carbon offset projects across the United States and Canada. They provide options for individuals, businesses, and events to calculate and offset their carbon emissions. Terrapass also offers additional resources and information on sustainable living.
Europe: A popular carbon offset website in Europe is “MyClimate.” MyClimate provides carbon offset projects and solutions for individuals, businesses, and travel. They offer a carbon footprint calculator and allow users to support various sustainable projects worldwide. MyClimate focuses on promoting climate protection and sustainability.
Australia: “Greenfleet” is a prominent carbon offset website in Australia. Greenfleet focuses on planting native forests to offset carbon emissions. They offer individuals and businesses the opportunity to calculate and offset their carbon footprint by contributing to tree planting projects across Australia. Greenfleet provides detailed information about their projects and the positive environmental impacts they create.
Please note that these carbon offset websites may vary over time, so it is recommended to research and explore multiple options to find the most suitable one for your needs.
If any of these links do not work it would be kind of you to inform us, many thanks.
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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