Sail from Spain to France on a Square Rigger! A True, Mini Offshore Adventure

FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

Why choose this voyage?

This is a passage for those who want to sail properly—not just be a passenger. The route from A Coruña to the Gulf of Morbihan offers everything from open-sea crossings to coastal navigation, with a chance to experience square-rig sailing at its best. You’ll be part of the crew, and encouraged to get hands-on with all aspects of sailing to keep the ship moving. Whether it’s your first time on a tall ship or you’ve sailed before, Morgenster’s crew will guide you through the skills needed to handle a vessel like this.

With good winds, we’ll ride the Atlantic swells north, passing rugged cliffs and fishing harbours. As we approach Brittany, the coast softens, revealing sandy bays, historic lighthouses, and the maze of islands that mark our final approach to the Gulf of Morbihan. The journey will challenge you, reward you, and—like all true sailing adventures—stay with you long after you’ve returned to dry land.

Setting sail from A Coruña

A Coruña is a city with deep maritime roots. If you arrive a day early, visit the Tower of Hercules, the world’s oldest working lighthouse, or explore the waterfront, where the glass-fronted galerías reflect the ever-changing Atlantic skies. For those interested in Spanish naval history, the San Antón Castle offers a glimpse into the city’s seafaring past.

Morgenster will be docked in the harbour, her masts towering above the fishing boats and yachts. The crew will be on hand to welcome you aboard, show you to your cabin, and introduce you to the ship. After a safety briefing and a tour of the deck, we’ll slip lines, raise sail, and set out into the Atlantic, leaving the lights of Spain behind as the adventure begins.

Along the Way

The first few hours are about getting to know the ship—how she moves, how the sails respond, and how to work as a team. You’ll be part of one of 3 watches for the duration of your voyage – 4 hours on, 8 hours off. When it’s your watch, you’ll take turns at the helm, adjusting sails, and keeping a lookout.

The route north follows one of Europe’s great maritime highways, passing capes and headlands that have been navigational landmarks for centuries. The first leg takes us along the Galician coast, where deep inlets, known as rías, cut into the land. If the wind is in our favour, we’ll push further offshore, making the most of the open water before turning towards France.

Sailing across the Bay of Biscay in late May can mean anything from brisk westerlies to calm, glassy seas. Dolphins are common here, often playing in the bow wave, while seabirds wheel overhead, far from land. The further north we go, the more the landscape softens, with the jagged cliffs of Spain giving way to Brittany’s rolling headlands and long sandy beaches.

The final approach into the Gulf of Morbihan is a striking change—tidal currents replace the ocean swells, and the water turns a deep green, dotted with islands and fishing harbours. The transition from open sea to this sheltered haven is something every sailor remembers.

Arriving in Gulf of Morbihan

Landfall after a passage always carries a sense of achievement. The Gulf of Morbihan, with its maze of channels and inlets, is a peaceful place to reflect on the journey. The Breton port of Vannes, with its medieval streets and lively waterfront, is well worth exploring if you have time before heading home.

Sailing a square-rigger across open water is about more than just covering miles. It’s about stepping away from the modern world, working as part of a crew, and experiencing the raw beauty of the sea. Whether it’s your first time on a tall ship or one of many, the lessons learned and the memories made will last long after you step ashore.

Wind, Waves & Weather

Late May is a good time to sail this route, with prevailing westerlies and mild temperatures. The Atlantic swell is always a factor, but Morgenster is built for these waters, riding the waves with ease. The Bay of Biscay has a reputation for rough weather, but at this time of year, conditions are often fast, fresh, and exhilarating rather than extreme. As we enter the Gulf of Morbihan, the sea flattens, giving a gentle end to an otherwise lively voyage.

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. 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.

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.

AGILITY & FITNESS

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.

What to pack for a sailing holiday on Morgenster

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

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.

• Morgenster 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.
• Morgenster has European 2 pin sockets 240 V
• Cameras, chargers and video recorders
• 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.

Online Reviews

 

I loved it.

I loved everything about my week. The crew were fantastic, the ship was beautiful, the singing on the deck was great fun, the dolphins were around a lot. It was brilliant!

Least enjoy - Nothing.

Why do I Sail?

I love the ocean and have always loved boats. For this particular voyage I was also researching a children's book involving mermaids and pirates!

Liz K sailed in 2017

 

What was the best bit?

Climbing in the rigging, unfurling the sails on the yardarm. 
The cameraderie between the paid and guest crew was second to none. A fantastic atmosphere. Singing in the evenings on deck accompanied by guitar and trumpet. New Year on St Lucia, we celebrated the New Year 3 times (once for Dutch/European time, once for GMT and once for Caribbean time).
The sun glinstering off the ocean surface like a thousand shards of broken mirror.......flying fish like small humming birds skimming over the surface of the water, dolphins on New Years day: what a start to 2019!
Too wonderful to describe, a life changing experience, I want to pack in my job and sail the world! (making plans now) - Carol from Caribbean Season 2019. 

Great experience, will definitely be doing it again.  Climbing the rigging was the best bit. 'First time' sailor. John M July 2018

"Thank you for a very nice trip, some hours on Kattegatt this afternoon. Beautiful boat, nice and joyful captain and crew. I loved it! Wish you all a really nice trip during Tall Ships Races. And I would love to join again someday for a longer trip." Camilla A. June 2017

Thank you Harry, Mariann and all your wonderful crew for an amazing week on Morgenster. Great food Will, such patient climbing instruction Michelle, fun birthday outing Evy and lovely guests from 80 to 22 years old. So many highlights but sailing at night with sparkling dolphins at the bow was truly breathtaking!" Sue G.

Just returned from 11 days sailing round Cape Verde. The whole experience was exceptional - friendly, knowledgeable and caring crew; wonderful sailing (the 4am night watch experience was particularly magical!); interesting trips exploring the islands; and great food." Julia G-F

Thank you Harry, Marian, Joost, Rene, Hessel & Willie for a fantastic week's sailing. I'll be humming sea shanties and saying "o nay!!!" for days! I really hope to sail with you again. Happy New Year" Kerry Mc C.

Had a fantastic trip around Cape Verde, Jan/Feb 2016. Lovely crew, felt like a family. Thanks to you all xxxx. Really special people and a holiday to remember. My penguins X" Louise G

What a fantastic time, thanks to everyone on the Morgenster both crew and passengers hope to see you all again, maybe next year?" George Mc L

Harry, Marian and their crew make your stay on board the Morgenster wonderful!" Aleike K

What was the best bit?

The trip was fabulous. The crew were incredibly supportive and even helped me overcome enough of my fear to get out onto the first yard. I felt that I was included in everything and that my contribution, however small, was appreciated. The food was excellent and there were plenty of drinks and snacks throughout the day. We had gorgeous weather all the way. I really enjoyed it. - Caribbean Season 2019 by Amanda G. 

Tall Ship Morgenster in action and images. 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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