| Embark | Disembark | Vessel | Duration | Voyage No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thu 03-10-2024, 14:00Douarnenez, Brittany | Sat 12-10-2024, 11:00Baiona, Spain | Grayhound | 9 Nights | GR031024 |
Set sail on a 10-day voyage from Douarnenez, France, to Baiona, Spain, aboard Grayhound. Traverse the historic waters once roamed by smugglers and privateers on a lugger built for speed. Learn traditional sailing, become part of a close-knit crew, and experience the freedom of the sea. End your journey in the enchanting town of Baiona, steeped in maritime history.
This voyage is ideal for adventurers eager to step away from the digital clutter and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of nature. It’s perfect for those who love history, traditional sailing, and hands-on experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a curious newcomer, the journey from Douarnenez to Baiona offers an enriching escape into the world of wind and waves.
| Vessel type / Rig | Three Masted Lugger |
| Guest Berths | 8-10 |
| Beam | 19ft |
| Draft | 10.75ft |
| Deck Length | 64ft |
| Overall Length | 108ft |
| Tonnage | 56 tons |
| Year Built | 2012 |
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 is 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.
Some of the trips are more demanding than others. Make sure to read the voyage descriptions properly before you book your adventure. If you feel unsure please contact us and ask for further information. Classic Sailing +44 1326 53 1234
Set sail from the vibrant French fishing port of Douarnenez. This historic town is renowned for its picturesque quays, dotted with traditional wooden boats and bustling seafood markets. Douarnenez, with its deep maritime roots, offers a wealth of attractions and experiences that can enrich the journey of any sailing enthusiast before they set sail. If you’re able to arrive a day or two early, why not explore the town, including a visit to the excellent maritime museum, Port-Musée, and sample the local seafood, especially the famous Douarnenez sardines!
When you’re ready to join the ship, Grayhound’s friendly international crew will welcome you aboard and help you get settled in. As you leave the harbour, the open sea beckons!
The journey from Douarnenez to Baiona takes you along a route filled with natural beauty and diverse marine environments. As you navigate past Pointe du Raz, known for its dramatic cliffs and strong currents, you’ll experience a stark and compelling landscape and a sail that is both challenging and rewarding, regardless of your sailing experience. This area is also a prime spot for observing marine life, with dolphins and seabirds often seen accompanying ships along their route.
Continuing south, the coast of Northern Spain unfolds gradually, offering views of Galicia’s untouched beaches and craggy cliffs. This segment of your voyage provides a chance to appreciate the quiet majesty of the Atlantic coast, as well as the rich ecosystems that thrive in these waters.
Baiona is a gem waiting to be discovered. After concluding your sailing adventure, take time to explore the medieval streets of this charming town. Visit the impressive Monterreal Castle, now a parador with exquisite views of the surrounding seas. Stroll along the bustling promenade or relax on the pristine Playa America. For history buffs, the replica of La Pinta, one of Columbus’s ships that returned from the New World to Baiona, is a must-see.
A voyage across the sometimes challenging waters of the Bay of Biscay aboard Grayhound is a thrilling adventure and a profound learning experience. With no prior sailing knowledge required, this voyage is perfect for adventurers of all skill levels but do be aware that conditions in these areas are sometimes rough – sometimes it’s a millpond! Under the guidance of your expert crew, you’ll engage directly in sailing, learning how to harness the wind and waves while fostering teamwork and resilience. As you navigate through dynamic environments, you’ll not only encounter awe-inspiring natural beauty and wildlife but also discover new strengths within yourself. This journey promises not just to teach you the art of traditional sailing but to transform challenges into cherished memories and personal triumphs.
Some of our trips are more demanding than others. If you feel unsure whether this voyage is right for you, please contact us and ask for further information. Classic Sailing +44 1326 53 1234
October on the Atlantic can be as unpredictable as it is captivating. Expect a mix of brisk autumn winds and relatively mild temperatures, perfect for sailing. The Bay of Biscay is known for its variable conditions, which can challenge and thrill in equal measure. Skilled forecasting and expert seamanship will ensure you make the most of the prevailing winds and currents.
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.
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.
Grayhound has her own berth at Port Rhu and the port is small enough for you to be able to easily spot her distinctive wooden masts.
For those eager to experience the charm of Douarnenez, Brittany, myriad transport options can usher you to its doorstep.
From the UK:
One of the most straightforward routes is by taking a ferry from Plymouth to Roscoff, which is just a short drive away from Douarnenez. Those keen on travelling by rail can catch the Eurostar to Paris and then take a TGV to Quimper. Once at Quimper, Douarnenez is easily accessible via bus or car.
From Europe:
Travelling by TGV train to Quimper is advisable, with connections available from major European cities like Brussels, Amsterdam, or Geneva.
From North America:
Your journey will likely begin with a flight into Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. From there, a domestic flight to either Quimper or Brest airports can be taken. Upon reaching either of these airports, Douarnenez can be reached by renting a car or hopping on a coach/bus.
From Australia:
Flights will typically land in Paris or other significant European hubs. Subsequent domestic flights or trains will get travellers to Quimper, after which they can proceed to Douarnenez.
Should you choose to drive to Douarnenez, be assured that parking facilities are in place. For finding or reserving parking spaces, it’s advised to check out JustPark.
History:
Douarnenez is rich in maritime history. A standout attraction is the Port-Musée (Port Museum), where visitors can immerse themselves in centuries of naval tradition through ancient boats and exhibits.
Culture:
The town is a cultural beacon, with festivals such as the Fête des Bateaux (Boat Festival) showcasing traditional boat parades. Furthermore, the locale offers a mix of Celtic-inspired music and contemporary arts for visitors to enjoy.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor:
With its twin harbours, Port Rhu and Port du Rosmeur, Douarnenez is a sight to behold for sailors. Those with a passion for sailing can also embark on tours to explore the Bay of Douarnenez in all its glory.
Entertainment:
Nighttime in Douarnenez is lively, thanks to its pubs and clubs that echo with traditional Breton tunes. On special occasions, visitors might even catch a performance of the traditional ‘Fest Noz’ dance in the town’s squares.
Eating Out:
A gastronomic delight awaits food lovers. From the renowned ‘kouign-amann’, a caramelised pastry, to fresh seafood dishes like mussels and oysters, there’s much to relish. And, of course, one can’t leave without sampling the local cider.
Nature:
The town is surrounded by natural beauty. Take a walk on the Plomarc’h trails, explore ancient ruins, or relax on the Sables Blancs beach. Those looking for scenic views won’t be disappointed with the coastal paths on offer.
Unique Features:
Douarnenez boasts of a legend that sets it apart: the tale of the sunken city of Ys. According to lore, this city lies submerged beneath the town’s bay waters. The story of King Gradlon and his daughter Dahut adds a layer of mystique to this already captivating destination.
Sustainable Travel Carbon Offset Schemes
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.
If you’re flying in from the UK, you can take a direct flight to Vigo Airport, the closest airport to Baiona. From there, Baiona is just a short taxi ride, bus journey, or car drive away. For those who fancy a more leisurely approach, ferries operate from the UK to Northern Spain, allowing tourists to drive to Baiona while soaking up the scenic beauty of Spain.
For travellers from other parts of Europe, both direct and connecting flights are available to Vigo Airport. Additionally, Baiona is accessible through the European train network, particularly for those travelling from neighbouring countries such as France or Portugal.
For visitors from North America, while direct flights to Vigo might be limited, there are abundant connecting flights via other major Spanish cities, like Madrid or Barcelona. The same goes for tourists coming from Australia; most will transit through key European cities such as London or Madrid.
Vigo also serves as a primary railway station, linking Baiona with the rest of Spain. Those who prefer bus or coach travel will find frequent services running between Vigo and other major Spanish cities, and local buses provide seamless connections between Vigo and Baiona.
For tourists who are keen on driving, Baiona is easily accessible by car. The journey, especially down Spain’s western coast, is replete with picturesque views. And if parking is a concern, the website JustPark (https://www.justpark.com/) is an excellent resource to find and reserve parking spaces in Baiona.
History:
One of the crown jewels of Baiona’s historical legacy is the Monterreal Fortress. Standing as a testament to the town’s rich past, it offers panoramic vistas of the town and the nearby Cies Islands. Those keen on maritime history must visit the Museum of Navigation to learn about the voyages of the Pinta, one of Christopher Columbus’s ships.
Culture:
The essence of Baiona’s culture is best experienced during the Arribada Festival. This event celebrates the return of the Pinta, and the town comes alive with medieval markets, traditional Spanish music, and enthralling costume parades.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor:
Baiona’s marina is a great spot to head to the Cies Islands. It’s a sailor’s paradise, the bay, with its captivating coastal views, offers various sailing tours that allow visitors to explore the coastline and nearby islands.
Entertainment:
By night, Baiona transforms into a hub of entertainment. The town boasts a myriad of bars, pubs, and clubs that play everything from traditional Flamenco to modern hits. Regular Flamenco nights are a treat for dance enthusiasts.
Eating Out:
When it comes to food, Baiona is a gastronomic delight. The town, especially renowned for its seafood, offers delicacies like fresh oysters and octopus. A walk through the cobbled streets of the old town reveals a plethora of tapas bars and traditional Spanish restaurants that promise a culinary journey.
Nature:
Nature lovers can revel in the lush rainforests around Baiona or take up hiking in the tranquil surroundings of Monte Boi. The Cies Islands, part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park, are home to dream-like beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Unique Features:
What truly sets Baiona apart is its perfect blend of history and modernity. The potential UNESCO World Heritage status of the Cies Islands, coupled with the town’s historical landmarks and its modern-day vibrancy, ensures that Baiona remains an unparalleled tourist destination.
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.
Note
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.
Sailing on Grayhound in the Caribbean, March 2024
James recently shared his feedback from his voyage on Grayhound, sailing from St. Lucia to Guadeloupe from 6th to 12th March. He thoroughly enjoyed the experience, rating it as amazing, but he felt the need to share some insights.
The crew comprised 11 people, including a professional skipper, a young mate, a cook, and the boat's Swedish owners, Willie and Oscar. The passengers included two Americans, Connor and Leah, along with James and Nigel Sharp, who was there to write an article about the trip. A young couple joined as volunteer crew but lacked experience, which somewhat impacted the dynamics.
James appreciated the diverse age range and found the mixed sleeping arrangements manageable, though he noted the challenges of sleeping in tropical heat. His prior experience on classic boats like Pilgrim and Johanna Lucretia helped him enjoy working on the boat, though he advises that physical fitness is essential for activities like using the hand winch and rowing in the Caribbean heat.
A significant aspect of the trip was the administrative process of checking into each Caribbean island, which James found somewhat tedious. He also highlighted that Grayhound is a vegetarian boat, which, while not a major issue for him, did limit the culinary experience of the Caribbean.
Despite some minor issues, James emphasises that future passengers should be prepared for a more casual and less professional experience on Grayhound, compared to other vessels. He always felt safe and enjoyed the boat's beauty, describing the atmosphere at times as akin to a 'happy hippy expedition'. The owners' approach to running Grayhound as a business seemed more focused on enjoyment, including evenings with drinks and beach BBQ’s.
Overall, James is grateful for the experience and open to future sailing adventures. He also stayed on in the Caribbean for an extra week, offering to share his discoveries with others. He's curious about Nigel Sharp's upcoming article in Classic Boat, noting Nigel's mixed impressions during the trip.
This is a summary of the comments by James March 2024
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.
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