Atlantic Crossing: Guadeloupe to Azores

 

An Introduction to Grayhound 

GRAYHOUND is one of the largest sailing luggers in the world today. She was built in Cornwall in 2012 and has a 20m long hull, is 33m overall and a canvas area of 470 square meters. The original plans were those of a three masted lugger from 1776. Luggers from that time were built for speed and swiftness ideal for privateering, smuggling…or for hunting the latter! “Pirate hand-break turns” and cannon firing are always on the menu on Grayhound!

As voyage crew you do not have to have any prior sailing experience or knowledge to join on Grayhound. A positive attitude and a wish for adventure is all! Our experienced crew will make sure that you comfortably and eagerly hoist the sails, make fast the ropes, participate in the manoeuvres, steer the ship and ready the anchor. It is all hands-on and you will be a crucial part of getting to our desired destination. You will learn fast while enjoying the feeling of freedom the ship offers as you get humbled by the sea. 

FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

This isn’t just a trip; it’s an adventure you won’t soon forget. Set sail with us on an authentic Cornish Lugger from Guadeloupe, an island paradise famous for its sugar cane fields, rum distilleries, and volcanic landscapes. The atmosphere here is laid back and relaxed, so take some time before your voyage to sink your feet into the sandy beaches or explore the waterfalls in the tropical forests.

Our voyage takes us across the deep blue ocean, offering you a much-needed digital detox, completely in the hands of nature. With balmy weather and the promise of overnight sailing, we immerse ourselves in Celestial Navigation. That’s right, we navigate using the sun, the stars, our paper maps, and a sextant. No prior experience is needed. Our seasoned crew will teach you all the ins and outs of handling a traditional boat, from hoisting sails and tying knots to taking reefs and steering.

As we leave the sight of land behind, powered by the trade winds, expect at least two weeks of undiluted connection with nature. Keep your eyes peeled for oceanic wonders like whales, turtles, dolphins, flying fish, and birds ranging from tiny Petrels to massive Albatrosses. You’ll be part of night watches, helping us navigate and maintain the boat.

There’s no better place to forget your worldly worries. The crew takes care of everything, so you can let go of your stress, engage in deep conversations, and explore the meanderings of your mind. And if the weather allows, we’ll even indulge in some ocean swimming—there’s nothing quite like the thrill of swimming over 5000 metres of deep ocean, with no land in sight.

Finally, we approach the Azores, an archipelago offering dramatic volcanic landscapes, abundant whale watching opportunities, and strong gin and tonics to toast our oceanic achievement. It’s worth spending a few extra days here; the islands are an adventurer’s dream. Hike through ancient lava tubes, swim in crater lakes, or just enjoy the local cuisine before you reluctantly head back to the ‘real’ world.

Don’t wait too long to book your spot. These Atlantic passages sell out fast!

You will learn how to sail a traditional Cornish Lugger. Whether you are an experienced sailor or not there is plenty to learn. Professional sailors are always surprised by Grayhound’s combination of sturdiness and sensitivity to the wind. She is nimble! There’s no limit to what you can learn about navigation and traditional sailing.

The Irish Sea is beautiful, mysterious and rich in history. We may find anchorages in Ireland or Wales, before setting a course for Land’s End. Grayhound was built in Cornwall from Cornish oak, so when she rounds Land’s End she’ll be giving a nod to her birthplace. Depending on the forecast, Grayhound might make a stop on the South Coast of Cornwall to restock and recharge before the final channel crossing to Douarnenez.

WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER

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. This is a passage-making voyage, however, so there will be a need to make up the miles, and that can mean sailing in slightly stiffer conditions than on a round trip. The Irish Sea and English Channel can both get a little punchy, but Grayhound is a solid seagoing ship and will take good care of you.

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 Grayhound

What is included

• Duvets, linen, pillows
• Sailing instruction
• All meals on board (professional chef)
• Tea, coffee, biscuits, fruit and day time snacks.
• Night watch snacks (if applicable)
• You don't have to do the cleaning, but help with the washing up is always appreciated.
• Waterproof and insulated jackets and trousers
• Life Jacket and safety equipment, we also have child automatic life jackets.
• Charging facilities for phones, cameras and tablets etc.

What is not included

• Towels
• Travel to joining port
• Tours, shore expeditions with any hire vehicle or local guide (optional & shared costs)
• Personal travel insurance See Topsail Insurance LINK
• There is no bar on board so you might like to bring a bottle or two of wine to enjoy with meals. You can also buy organic sailed cargo wine, red, white and rose onboard.

What to Bring

Don't forget, Grayhound is 108ft overall so she will not always fit into small yacht marinas and she will often have to anchor off in the bay or port. Be prepared to get into a small boat with your luggage and pack sensibly protecting any vulnerable items like cameras. Grayhound has waterproof and insulated flotation jackets and trousers on board which are very warm. In summer or hot locations you may wish to bring some lightweight waterproofs. Even in the Caribbean you can get tropical downpours or spray on deck when sailing in strong winds. A mobile phone so you can ring the ship in an emergency or if you are running late on joining day. Also it means we can contact you if we have to change the joining port for any reason. Grayhound's phone number will always be supplied with your balance confirmation e-mail. Shoes with a good grip for deck & aloft Rubber Boots or second pair of shoes for wet weather or getting in/out of dinghies Swim suit & beach towel. You are welcome to bring snorkel and mask - especially worth it in the Caribbean or Cape Verde. Suntan lotion & sunglasses - consider sunblock and lip salve protection in Canaries, Cape Verde, Trans Altantic, Caribbean. Sun hat / warm hat, scarves, gloves Clothes that dry quickly. Mix of warm, waterproof & windproof layers Small rucksack for going ashore Travel insurance documents/tickets Personal medicines/ spectacles Spending money/passport Camera/binoculars etc Phone chargers. 240 generator on board UK three pin sockets. We welcome musical instruments and you can plug in ipods or CDs into ships stereo. There are storage areas for each bunk . Please pack in a soft rucksack or bag. A torch is useful as a few baggage spaces are at the foot of bunks with reading light at other end. There is no alcohol to buy on board, so you are welcome to bring a bottle or two to drink with meals. If you decide to buy some on arrival You can also buy Grayhound t shirts, mugs and Breton tops from our ship's shop we accept pounds or euros.

 

Thank you so much to all the Grayhound crew for an unforgettable adventure. I cannot imagine a kinder and better crew with which to sail.

Caroline

Thanks all for a great time, I really enjoyed it. Fastest Channel crossing I have managed!

Barney

An unforgettable experience

Jonathon

We've had two idyllic sailing trips. One particularly fantastic day scrambling over big volcanic rocks down a deep craggy valley to a black sand beach with dramatically high cliffs. Grayhound was waiting, attracting attention because she's so beautiful and unique. Swimming out to her in the clear waters o the Atlantic rates as one of life's highlights.

Grayhound Guest

Fantastic, exhilarating and an honour to be on such a ship.

Des

Excellent company of genuine all round sailors. The wind in my face and the swell beneath. 5 stars for welcome, accommodation on board, safety, quality of sailing, food, skipper and crew.

Barry

Outstanding and unforgettable experience. Loved learning the lug rig, meeting the crew and other guests, playing an active role on board.

Charlie

Brilliant sail on an interesting boat with friendly and knowledgeable people.

Steve

Three masted lugger Grayhound is a unique sight and a joy to take photos of. Not only does she look very unusual as it is a rig not seen much now, she has a mission to deliver cargoes under sail, so she is the darling of the press. 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.