Mousehole Sea, Salt & Sail Festival

 

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 is always on the menu on Grayhound!

FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

Joining the Ship

Your voyage aboard Grayhound begins in Falmouth, a town rich in maritime heritage. The town is a delightful place to explore, with opportunities to learn about Cornwall’s seafaring traditions and enjoy its coastal attractions. If you’re able to, we recommend arriving a day early to explore Falmouth and the surrounding area. Visit the National Maritime Museum Cornwall and see the national small boats collection. Grab lunch at Windjammer Café, you can sit out on the balcony and watch the hustle and bustle of the harbour below – you’ll likely be able to see Grayhound from there!

There are also 2 train stations right in the town, close to the harbour, making travel to Falmouth easy and perfect for exploring further afield to see Cornwall’s many visitor attractions such as the Eden Project, Tintagel Castle and the Minack Theatre to name just a few.

After joining and getting acquainted with the ship, crew and fellow guests, you’ll set sail! Heading out, you pass Black Rock, which is easily identified by the dark, brick, cone-shaped base and Isolated Danger Mark (two circles, vertically stacked). See Pendennis Castle om your right and St Anthony’s Head Lighthouse on the left. You’ll cruise past the Helford River and its idyllic creeks and woodland. Then later you’ll round the Lizard Peninsula, giving you a chance to glimpse the Lizard Lighthouse standing sentinel at mainland Britain’s southernmost point.

As you make your way through Mount’s Bay, the iconic St Michael’s Mount looms large, Not to be forgotten, the bustling fishing port of Newlyn serves as a prelude to Mousehole, signalling that your destination is near.

Along the Way

Mid-June is a splendid time for wildlife spotting along the Cornish coast. The waters are teeming with life, and the weather generally allows for clear views of both sea and sky. Between Falmouth and Mousehole, you’ll likely have the chance to encounter a captivating array of marine species. Seals and dolphins are a frequent delight in these waters, particularly common dolphins and bottlenose dolphins. Keep an eye out for their dorsal fins breaking the surface as they dart around the boat or ride the bow wave. You might also spot harbour porpoises, though they’re generally a bit shyer and less showy than their dolphin cousins.

Birdwatchers will have a field day. Gannets are a magnificent sight, plunging into the sea at great speeds to catch fish. Guillemots and razorbills are often seen closer to the cliffs, and you may even spot a puffin or two as you approach the more isolated parts of the coast, though they’re a rarer sight. Cormorants and shags are also abundant, often seen diving for fish or perched on buoys and rocks, drying their wings in the sun.

Mousehole Sea, Salt & Sail Festival

Arriving in Mousehole aboard Grayhound, you’ll be more than just spectators at the Sea & Salt Festival; you’ll actively partake in the celebrations. Activities are often varied, but you’re likely to find anything from sea shanty performances to boat races, and of course, ample opportunities to sample the local seafood. It’s as though the whole village throws open its doors to honour the sea, its gifts, and the people who’ve made a living from it for generations.

Beyond the festival’s bounds, Mousehole itself is a treasure trove of Cornish culture and maritime history, offering you an unparalleled opportunity to dive deep into the essence of traditional sailing and coastal life. All in all, it’s a journey and event that has the potential to transform casual onlookers into passionate sailors, under the vast sky and atop the ever-changing sea.

Mousehole to Penzance

After the fun of the festival , you’ll leave Mousehole for Penzance. You’ll find yourself sailing past Newlyn once again. If you didn’t get a chance to appreciate it on the inbound trip, now’s the time to take in the sights and sounds of one of the busiest fishing ports in the UK. It’s a working testament to Cornwall’s maritime and fishing heritage, and a fascinating contrast to the more leisurely atmosphere of Mousehole.

Upon nearing Penzance, the vista shifts from natural beauty to architectural charm. The town’s promenade and historic buildings will come into view, offering a blend of Cornish tradition and Georgian elegance. It’s like sailing into a different chapter of Cornwall’s rich maritime story.

Although a shorter sail compared to your earlier journey, the Mousehole to Penzance stretch offers its own unique set of joys. From the robust activity of Newlyn to the stately grandeur of St Michael’s Mount and the genteel air of Penzance, it’s a route that provides a bit of everything—a fine way to round off what I’m sure will have been an unforgettable maritime adventure.

WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER

In mid-June, you’re sailing into some of Cornwall’s best weather—mild to warm temperatures and favourable winds generally from the southwest. It’s the sort of climate that makes for lively yet manageable sailing, ideal for both newcomers and seasoned mariners. Sea conditions are usually moderate, offering a gentle introduction to ocean sailing without too much drama. The visibility is often excellent, perfect for soaking up those Cornish views and spotting an array of marine wildlife. All in all, it’s a brilliant time to be out on the water, balancing comfort and adventure in true Cornish style. Just pack for both sun and spray, and you’ll be more than ready for whatever the sea decides to serve up.

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 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.