Sailing trip along the Frisian island chain

FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

Setting Sail from Amsterdam

As the Eye of the Wind casts off from the vibrant heart of Amsterdam, you’ll feel the pulse of modern life slip away, replaced by the timeless rhythm of wind and wave. The IJsselmeer, a unique inland sea surrounded by charming Dutch villages, will be your first playground as you begin this six-day sailing adventure. Hoist the sails as you leave the Amsterdam metropolis, giving you an immediate immersion into the age-old art of traditional sailing.

Along the Way

The voyage will carry you through the captivating waters of the IJsselmeer before venturing out to the raw beauty of the North Sea coast. Expect to sail along the stunning Frisian island chain—a tapestry of green dunes, historic lighthouses, and an abundant variety of birdlife like terns and oystercatchers. You may even spot seals lounging on sandbanks as you pass by. You’ll navigate the ship past quaint fishing villages that look almost suspended in time, offering an intriguing contrast to the urban beginnings of our journey.

Arriving in Elsfleth

Our sails will finally catch the winds leading us to Elsfleth, Germany, a destination with significant historical ties to Eye of the Wind; The ship was first launched over 110 years ago at Lühring shipyard at Brake/Germany – just a few kilometres away from Elsfleth. Even today there is a shipyard plaque on board, which documents the year of construction 1911 – let us know if you find it!

If you choose to stay an extra day, you can visit the Maritime Museum, which offers fascinating insights into local nautical history. For those with a penchant for natural beauty, take a leisurely stroll down the idyllic Elsfleth Beach. Another option is to explore the Elsfleth Fairy Tale Path—a delightful walk that weaves folklore into the natural landscape.

WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER

In April, the IJsselmeer and North Sea can be pleasantly brisk, with daytime temperatures averaging around 10°C. The winds are generally westerly, ranging from moderate to fresh. While it’s spring, keep in mind the North Sea is never to be underestimated; it can throw in a good swell and choppy conditions. Layers and waterproofs are your friends.

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.

What to pack for a sailing holiday on the Eye of the Wind

Working Language on Board is German and English

Practical Advice for Eye of the Wind   

Practical Advice for Covid 19 and Eye of the Wind

What is Included

• Sailing Instruction
• All meals to include refreshments throughout the day
• Duvet, pillow and sheets
• Hand towels

What is not Included

• Waterproof jackets and trousers
• Alcoholic drinks but there is a bar on board
• Any entry visas required

What to Bring

Suitcases take up a lot of room in a cabin, so it is better to uses soft bags in a ship. A small rucksack for going ashore is useful.

• Eye of the Wind does not supply waterproof jackets and salopette type trousers. Please bring your own waterproof clothing.
• A mix of warm and wind proof clothing.
• Lots of thin layers is better than one thick layer in cold destinations.
• In tropical countries - long sleeves and long trousers to protect you from the sun
• Footwear on board needs a good grip and soft soles- the decks are wood or steel.
• Ashore stout, waterproof walking boots are best if you are in remote places.
• Eye of the Wind has electric sockets in all the cabins 240 V 
• Cameras, spare batteries, chargers if you need them
• Binoculars are handy for bird watching etc.
• Suntan lotion, hats, sunglasses
• Dont forget any regular medication, persciption glasses and spare
• Euros for bar bill 
• Passport, travel insurance, tickets etc
•  To get ashore is usually by dinghy so be prepared to get wet feet. Rubber boots or quick drying sandals - depending on the location.
• The ship provides hand towels but please bring a beach towel
• snorkel and mask for caribbean if you like snorkelling (travel tip: swimming goggles pack up smaller than a facemask)
• Bring insect repellant for Caribbean as can get mosquitos ashore in evening (rare at anchor)
• ear plugs can be handy 

Electricity

All the power to your plug sockets comes from the ship's generator which runs on deisel. The less the generators have to run to top up power, the nicer it is for the guests on board and also greener for the planet. Please don't bring loads of hairdriers, electric devices to charge.

There is no internet on board whilst at sea. 

A fabulous adventure! Words cannot convey the experience.

John, Tortola to Bermuda

Tortola to the Azores! What a great time. Thanks to Captain Pit and the crew. An awesome adventure with awesome people!"

F Coutreau

What a wonderful, lovely, great, awesome trip we've had from Malaga to Lanzarote! I loved and enjoyed every minute.

Thanks again for this wonderful experience. I miss you guys!

Andrea

Now that was a voyage! The EYE crew - all 10 - five women and five men - embody two words:

COMPETENT and KIND

And such a beautiful ship. Thank you beyond measure

Susan

With red sails against a blue sky, Eye of the Wind is a photogenic ship. If you have any new images we would love to see them since Eye of the Wind has only recently returned to our website. 

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