Embark	Disembark	Vessel	Duration	Voyage No
Sun 30-06-2024, 17:00Bordeaux, France	Sat 06-07-2024, 10:00Brest	Morgenster	6 Nights	MS240630

Voyage Description

Setting Sail from Bordeaux

You join Morgenster in Bordeaux – the capital of red wine! After settling in and getting acquainted with your crewmates over dinner, you’ll have the chance to look around town and perhaps sample some of it’s local wines. Next morning, you’ll embark on an exiting and scenic trip along the Gironde river, famous for it’s strong tidal effects. Once past the Cordouan lighthouse, it’s clear ocean water towards the extreme west of France.

Along the Way

Along the way, you’ll be greeted by myriad of breath taking landmarks and a rich array of wildlife. Starting with the UNESCO-listed Bordeaux riverfront, a marvel of classical and neoclassical architecture, your voyage takes you past the dramatic rock formations of Les Aiguilles de Port Coton at Belle Ile, a natural spectacle. The serene Ile de Sein, steeped in myth and legend, offers a rugged, untamed landscape. Witness the maritime tradition alive in Douarnenez and the artistic heritage of Camaret sur Mer, crowned by the UNESCO-listed Vauban Tower.

Keep an eye out for an array of seabirds, the playful dolphins in the Bay of Biscay, and if you’re fortunate, the elusive basking sharks. Each moment of this voyage is a chance to encounter the unique beauty and history that this coastal passage holds.

There are several options for stops and opportunities to explore along the way. Depending on weather, these could include:

Belle Ile: This beautiful island offers breathtaking cliffs and serene beaches. Keep an eye out for the abundant birdlife and the iconic Les Aiguilles de Port Coton.
Concarneau: A gem with a walled old town, Concarneau is a blend of maritime tradition and natural beauty. The fishing port and marina add to its lively atmosphere.
Ile de Sein: This small island boasts a rich history and rugged landscape. It’s a place where you can truly feel the power of the ocean.
Douarnenez: Known for its maritime museum and traditional boats, it offers a glimpse into Brittany’s seafaring heritage.
Camaret sur Mer: A picturesque fishing village, renowned for its artists and the Vauban Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Arriving in Brest

Upon arrival in Brest, if you have the luxury of an extra day, immerse yourself in this vibrant port city. Explore the National Maritime Museum, housed in a 17th-century castle, or stroll through the botanical gardens. The Océanopolis aquarium is a must-visit for marine life enthusiasts.

WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER

Expect a mix of conditions on this July voyage. The Bay of Biscay can be lively, with moderate winds and waves, making for exhilarating sailing. As you approach Brittany, the weather is typically milder, with occasional mist and lighter breezes, perfect for enjoying the scenic coastlines.

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.

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 01872 58 00 22 and we can chat through your concerns and possibly find options that might suit you better.

Start & End Port

Bordeaux, France

Bordeaux Wine Cellar

Bordeaux, France

How to Get There

From the UK

Flying is the most straightforward way to get to Bordeaux from the UK, with Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport offering good connections. If you’re more of a landlubber, consider taking the Eurostar and TGV trains for a scenic journey. Ferries to nearby French ports are also an option, followed by a drive to Bordeaux.

From Europe

If you’re coming from within Europe, the train is a convenient choice. Bordeaux is well-connected to major cities like Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam. Driving through the French countryside is also a viable option if you’re up for a road trip.

From North America

For those coming from across the pond, you’ll likely land in Paris first. From there, you can either catch a domestic flight to Bordeaux or take the TGV train for a more leisurely journey.

From Australia

It’s a long trek from Australia, usually with layovers in places like Dubai or Singapore. Once you reach Paris, you can catch a connecting flight to Bordeaux.

What to Do in Bordeaux

History

The city is a treasure trove of historical landmarks. From the UNESCO-listed Bordeaux Historic Centre to the iconic Grosse Cloche and Bordeaux Cathedral, there’s plenty to explore. The Cité du Vin offers a modern take on the history of wine.

Culture

Bordeaux is a hub of artistic and cultural activities. The Bordeaux Opera and various art galleries offer a feast for the senses. Annual festivals like the Bordeaux Wine Festival and the Dance Biennale add to the city’s cultural richness.

Sites of Interest to a Sailor

The Garonne River is the city’s aquatic backbone, offering stunning views and a unique perspective of Bordeaux. A short drive away, the Bay of Arcachon awaits, providing a different kind of sailing experience.

Entertainment

When the sun sets, Bordeaux comes alive. The city offers a range of nightlife options, from bars and clubs to live music venues, catering to all musical tastes.

Eating Out

Bordeaux is a culinary paradise. Whether it’s gourmet dining or a simple café experience you’re after, the city has something to offer. And let’s not forget, the wine is exceptional.

Nature

For those looking to connect with nature, the Landes Forest and the Dune of Pilat offer a refreshing break from city life. Hiking, cycling, and even paragliding are among the outdoor activities you can indulge in.

Unique Features

What makes Bordeaux unique is its seamless blend of old and new, from its architecture to its relationship with the Garonne River. Every visit offers something new, making Bordeaux a city that never ceases to surprise.

Special Interests

If you have a special interest that you would like to find out about for this port or to tell us about, we would love to hear from you.

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.

Adam Purser

Brest

Worthwhile Journeys

You are going to be spending some time in the ports you embark and disembark from. These aren’t just logistical points; they’re opportunities for further enrichment. Take an extra day to discover what’s beyond the harbour. It’s not merely about filling time; it’s about making the entire journey worthwhile.

Keeping in Touch The exact location of your ship may not be known until closer to your joining time, you will be informed by email once the exact position has been confirmed. Make sure you take a note of the ship’s mobile/cell phone number with you in case you are delayed or there are any other problems on the day.

What to Do in Brest

History Brest is a living history book where the pages keep turning. The Château de Brest is a must-see, revealing layers of the city’s past, from medieval fortifications to WWII history. The National Navy Museum within the castle adds another layer of maritime heritage.

Culture The city’s festivals offer a glimpse of Brittany’s unique heritage. Astropolis, a summertime electronic music festival, may not be traditional, but it’s thoroughly Breton in spirit. The Festival of the Sea, held biennially, is a celebration of all things maritime and resonates deeply with any sailor’s soul.

Sites of Interest to a Sailor Head to the Pointe de Corsen for an awe-inspiring view where the Atlantic meets the Channel. While you’re at it, visit Phare du Petit Minou, a lighthouse that’s more than just a beacon for ships. It’s a beacon for the soul, especially during sunset or sunrise.

Entertainment Brest isn’t exactly Ibiza, but it’s no slouch either. The dockside bars offer local ciders and ales, while you’ll find a smattering of live music venues tucked away in the heart of the city.

Eating Out Brittany is famed for its seafood, so make a beeline for a waterside bistro and ask for the catch of the day. Don’t forget to try a local crêpe, or galette if you prefer something savoury.

Nature A bit further afield, the Armorique Regional Natural Park offers unparalleled hiking opportunities and splendid coastal scenery. If you’re looking for a bit of surfing or beachcombing, Plage du Moulin Blanc shouldn’t disappoint.

Unique Features What sets Brest apart is its gritty charm. This isn’t a glamourous Riviera resort; it’s a working port city with an edge, and that’s precisely its appeal.

Accommodation Well-known places include the Hôtel Center and the more upscale Oceania Brest Centre. For some relaxation, consider a day at the Les Sables Blancs Spa, though I suspect most sailors might find the sea breeze enough.

Official Tourist Website For more information, the Brest Tourist Office is your best bet.

Weather Brest Winter can be cold, wet, and windy but rarely extreme. Spring offers milder temperatures and fewer tourists. Summer is the most pleasant time, though it can get busy, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C. Autumn is similar to spring but with more unpredictable weather.

Sea and Beyond: A Responsible Mariner’s Guide Since you’re already investing in a unique sailing adventure, why not extend that spirit to your travel choices? Opt for more sustainable methods of transport where possible like trains, coaches or sharing a car. If you fly, and we realise this may well be the case, you could research some ways to offset the carbon created by the flight.

Special Interests If you have a special interest that you would like to find out about for this port or to tell us about, we would love to hear from you.

How to Get There

UK Direct flights to Brest from London take under two hours. Trains from London to Brest are also an option, requiring a change in Paris.

Europe From Paris, you can catch a high-speed TGV train that will whisk you to Brest in about four hours. There are also regional flights from cities like Lyon and Marseille.

North America No direct flights, so you’ll likely connect through Paris or another European hub. Then take either a domestic flight or train to Brest.

Australia The most straightforward route involves a long-haul flight to a major European city like London or Paris, followed by a shorter connecting flight or train journey to Brest.

Kit List

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.

Review

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.

Vessel Gallery

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.