| Embark | Disembark | Vessel | Duration | Voyage No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun 07-06-2026, 17:00Flushing, Vlissingen, Holland | Tue 09-06-2026, 10:00Den Helder, The Netherlands | Morgenster | 2 Nights | MS070626 |
Join the Tall Ship Morgenster for an authentic 2-day delivery voyage from Flushing to Den Helder, experiencing genuine North Sea sailing aboard this beautiful square-rigged vessel.
This is a true working passage with clear purpose: bringing Morgenster safely home under canvas. Setting course northward along the Dutch coast, we adjust to wind and weather as sailors have done for generations. Feel the salt spray, watch vast skies change, and experience the rhythm of life at sea.
Get hands-on with sailing, take the helm and haul lines, or simply enjoy the ship’s motion from deck. The camaraderie around shared meals and watches creates bonds unique to tall ship life.
In just two days, discover why the sea has captivated sailors for millennia through the creak of rigging, teamwork under sail, and those perfect moments when ship, wind, and crew align in timeless harmony.
| Vessel type / Rig | Brig |
| Guest Berths | 24 |
| Beam | 19.6ft |
| Draft | 8ft |
| Deck Length | 125ft |
| Overall Length | 151ft |
| Tonnage | 159 tons |
| Year Built | 1919 |
Beginners
No Previous sailing experience required
Short sea passage then up river to and through Brussels.
Step aboard the magnificent Tall Ship Morgenster in the historic maritime town of Flushing, known locally as Vlissingen, and embark on a spirited 2-day delivery voyage that captures the authentic essence of North Sea sailing. This compact adventure offers a genuine taste of traditional tall ship life as we make our way north along the Dutch coast to Den Helder, the proud home port of this beautiful square-rigged vessel.
Flushing itself deserves your exploration before departure. This characterful Zeeland port has witnessed centuries of maritime history, its promenade offering sweeping views across the Westerschelde estuary where great ships still pass. Wander the old boulevards, visit the MuZEEum to discover the town’s rich naval heritage, or simply sit at a waterfront cafe watching the constant dance of vessels navigating these busy waters. The town’s mixture of historic architecture and maritime atmosphere makes it worth arriving a day early to soak in the coastal ambience.
Once aboard Morgenster, you’ll quickly fall into the natural rhythm of life at sea. This is a true delivery voyage, meaning our purpose is clear and honest: to bring this proud tall ship safely back to her home port under canvas. There’s something deeply satisfying about this kind of passage, a voyage with purpose and intention. We’ll set our course northward, following the contours of the Dutch coastline, adjusting our sails and heading as the wind and weather dictate.
The North Sea reveals itself in all its moods during this crossing. Feel the salt spray on your face as Morgenster cuts through the waves, her tall masts swaying against vast skies that seem to stretch forever. Watch the changing light play across the water, from the soft glow of dawn to the golden wash of evening sun. The coastline slides past, a distant ribbon of dunes and scattered settlements, while seabirds wheel and cry overhead.
This voyage invites you to be as involved as you wish. Join the crew in the daily work of sailing: haul on the lines as we set and trim the sails, take your turn at the great wooden helm and feel the ship respond to your touch, stand watch on deck as the miles slip past beneath the keel. Learn the names of the rigging, understand how the wind fills each sail, discover the satisfaction of working together as a team. Or simply find your favourite spot on deck, breathe in the clean sea air, and let the hypnotic motion of the ship work its magic on your soul.
The camaraderie that develops aboard a tall ship is something special. Around the galley table, over hot coffee or a shared meal, stories are exchanged and friendships formed. There’s a unique bond that comes from sailing together, from sharing the same watches, the same weather, the same purpose. In just two days, you’ll find yourself part of something larger, a temporary crew united by the timeless rhythms of sail and sea.
As we approach Den Helder, there’s a sense of achievement, that quiet sailor’s pride that comes from bringing a ship safely home. Den Helder itself is worth exploring after arrival. As the Royal Netherlands Navy’s main base, it breathes maritime tradition. Visit the impressive Marine Museum housed in historic naval buildings, walk the fortifications that once guarded this strategic port, or stroll along Huisduinen beach where the North Sea meets the Wadden Sea. The town offers excellent seafood restaurants where you can celebrate your voyage over fresh fish and local beer, recounting the highlights of your time at sea.
This short voyage may span just two days, but aboard the Tall Ship Morgenster, every hour delivers rich experiences: the creak of timber and rigging, the teamwork of setting sail, the ever-changing seascape, the taste of salt on your lips, and those unexpected moments of beauty when everything aligns, the ship heels gently to the wind, and you understand exactly why people have been drawn to the sea for thousands of years.
This is a simple voyage with only a small amount of coastal sailing.
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.
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.
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.
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 or cell phone number with you in case you are delayed or there are any other problems on the day.
What to Do in Flushing
History
Flushing, known locally as Vlissingen, has been a key maritime gateway for centuries. It served as a vital naval base for the Dutch East India Company and has long been associated with shipbuilding and trade. The MuZEEum offers excellent insight into Zeeland’s maritime history, while the city’s sea defences and historic docks remind visitors of its importance in both war and commerce.
Culture
The city celebrates its seafaring roots through festivals such as the Sail de Ruyter event, named after Admiral Michiel de Ruyter, one of the Netherlands’ most famous naval heroes. During summer, open-air concerts, film nights, and maritime parades bring the harbour to life, offering visitors a glimpse of Dutch coastal culture at its best.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor
From a sailor’s perspective, Flushing’s approach is one of the most striking in the southern Netherlands. The Scheldt estuary opens wide to the North Sea, with large commercial vessels sharing space with fishing boats and yachts. The wind-swept promenade, lined with lighthouses and bunkers, provides an excellent vantage point to watch ships entering and leaving port. The nearby Pilotage Museum adds depth to the area’s nautical significance.
Entertainment
Flushing has a relaxed, nautical character. The waterfront bars and cafés, particularly around the Bellamypark, are ideal for sailors looking to unwind. The CineCity cinema and local music venues add variety, while neighbouring Middelburg offers further cultural options just a short train ride away.
Eating Out
Seafood is at the heart of Zeeland’s cuisine. Local specialities include mussels, oysters, and shrimp, best enjoyed at waterfront restaurants like Restaurant De Gecroonde Liefde or De Ruyter. The city’s bakeries and brasseries also offer hearty Dutch fare, ideal after a long voyage.
Nature
Beyond the port, Zeeland’s coastline offers long, sandy beaches and quiet dunes. The Nollestrand and Dishoek beaches are close to town, ideal for swimming or walking. Cyclists can follow well-marked coastal trails, and birdwatchers will find abundant life in the nearby nature reserves of Westerschelde and Veere.
Unique Features
Flushing stands out for its working maritime character. Unlike resort towns, it remains a living port where ocean-going ships pass within metres of the sea wall. Its mix of industry, history, and seaside atmosphere captures the true spirit of a sailor’s town.
Accommodation
For those extending their stay, Hotel Arion offers sea-view rooms directly on the promenade. The City2Beach Hotel provides a comfortable, modern option in the centre. For something quieter, Bed & Breakfasts in nearby Dishoek or Zoutelande offer local charm and easy access to the beach.
Official Tourist Website
https://www.vlissingen.nl/toerisme
Weather in Flushing
Winter is cool and often breezy, averaging 4–6°C with regular rain and clear breaks. Spring brings mild weather and fresh westerly winds. Summer temperatures sit around 20°C, ideal for sailing and outdoor activity. Autumn sees more wind and occasional storms, with temperatures gradually cooling to around 10°C.
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
From the UK
Travelling to Flushing is simple. The Harwich–Hook of Holland ferry connects directly with Dutch rail lines, and from Rotterdam or Amsterdam, trains run to Flushing in about two hours. Alternatively, Eurostar services from London to Rotterdam offer easy onward connections.
From Europe
Flushing is well connected by train from major Dutch cities such as Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and The Hague. Bus links from Belgium and northern France are frequent, and nearby Middelburg provides good transport connections.
From North America
Fly to Amsterdam Schiphol or Brussels. From either airport, take a train to Flushing, with travel times between two and three hours. Both routes offer frequent services and scenic views of the Dutch countryside.
From Australia
Typical routes connect via Dubai, Doha, or Singapore to Amsterdam. From there, direct trains run regularly to Flushing, taking about three hours.
When Is the Best Time to Book a Flight?
Domestic travel: Book 1–2 months in advance.
International travel: Plan to book 3–6 months ahead.
Holiday travel: Secure your tickets 3–10 months in advance.
High-demand periods: Start monitoring fares as early as possible.
Spring, summer, or autumn international trips: Look at least 4–6 months before departure.
Extra Tips for Finding Cheap Flights
Travel off-peak, avoid busy travel periods, and consider midweek flights. Explore alternative airports, check airline websites for direct deals, and use flight trackers such as Google Flights or Hopper. Signing up for fare alerts or newsletters like Jack’s Flight Club can help you spot sudden price drops.
Tools to Help You Save
Tools like Skyscanner’s Savings Generator can provide insights into the best booking windows for your trip, ensuring you get the most value for your money.
With these tips, planning your next trip doesn’t have to break the bank. Start early, stay flexible, and explore your options for the best results.
Den Helder sits at the northern tip of the North Holland peninsula, making it a strategic gateway to the Wadden Sea and the North Sea.
If you are joining a traditional-boat voyage with us at Classic Sailing, spending extra time in Den Helder gives you the chance to shift from ship-mode to shore-mode: exploring, relaxing, absorbing maritime heritage and coastal scenery. Treat the port as part of the journey, not just a start point.
Preparing in this way helps you make the most of your time before or after the sailing leg.
History
Den Helder’s naval and maritime history is rich. The town has long served as the base for the Dutch navy and various fortifications.
Visit the Willemsoord complex, formerly the naval dockyard, now housing museums and maritime heritage.
Also worth a stop: Fort Kijkduin, which overlooks the coast, and for deeper exploration, Fort Harssens — a former fortress on military terrain open via guided tour.
Culture
Den Helder is not only about maritime infrastructure. The city centre is compact, undergoing transformation, and has a range of shops, cafés and eateries for a comfortable stay.
There are local events and light-festivals (for example a “Helder Light” festival) and the culture of the sea and dunes is embedded in local traditions.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor
Approaching Den Helder by sea you pass the narrow Marsdiep channel between the mainland and the island of Texel, a channel known for strong currents.
From the sea you will see the coastline of Den Helder with its lighthouses, forts, naval base and dune-backed beaches. The long view out to the Wadden Sea and across to Texel is special.
A vantage point for sailors: the light-tower Lange Jaap (once the tallest cast-iron lighthouse in Europe) is visible in the area.
Entertainment
After a day on the water, Den Helder offers restaurants, bars and relaxed nightlife inside the former naval yard area at Willemsoord. You can enjoy fresh seafood, local beers or a quiet drink by the harbour.
For music or local culture check the listings at the local theatre and cultural venues around the marina quarter.
Eating Out
Being a coastal town the seafood is very fresh and local cuisine strong. Seek out fish grills and restaurants specialising in Dutch and Belgian seafood dishes. A dinner by the water at the marina offers a fine conclusion to a day of sailing.
Nature
Den Helder offers dune-backed beaches, sea winds, and the Wadden Sea — a UNESCO World Heritage site just off the coast.
There are walking and cycling routes along the dunes, and from a sailor’s point of view the tides, currents and tidal flats around Marsdiep are worth observing.
The natural landscape invites a longer stay to explore beyond the harbour.
Unique Features
What sets Den Helder apart is the combination of active naval history, coastal defence structures and a working port, alongside natural landscapes of dunes and tidal flats. Few places integrate the maritime-industrial and natural so closely.
For someone joining a tall-ship or traditional schooner voyage, Den Helder offers immediate context: the sea, the sailing routes, the history of ships and sailors.
Accommodation
Extend your stay by choosing a hotel or spa in or around Den Helder. Several hotels occupy former naval buildings or sit by the water, offering comfortable rooms after your sailing week. Workshops or spa days nearby also help you relax.
Check the official local tourist site for current hotel listings.
Official Tourist Website
https://www.denhelder.online/en/
In winter temperatures hover around 4-8 °C, with strong sea winds, grey skies and frequent showers.
In spring expect 8-15 °C, clearer days, and decent sailing weather though breezes remain fresh.
In summer typical highs reach 18-22 °C, with long daylight hours and decent conditions for sailing and shore activities; sea wind keeps it comfortable.
In autumn temperatures drop back to 10-15 °C early and perhaps 5-10 °C later, with increased storm risk and changing sea states.
For sailors the key is wind direction, tides and currents — even in summer you’ll need layers and windproofs.
Use train or coach journeys where practical rather than flights. From nearby major cities or other parts of Europe consider rail links or bus rather than driving alone. If you fly, check carbon offset options.
Choose local accommodation and dining that support the community. As sailors we understand the value of sea, air and land working in balance — treat Den Helder and its environment with respect.
If you have a special interest (for example naval architecture, fortifications, the Wadden Sea ecosystem or tidal current phenomena) then we can provide tailored suggestions for Den Helder (such as a guided tour of Fort Harssens or a visit to the Dutch Navy Museum).
Let us know what you fancy and we’ll dig in.
From the UK:
Fly from London or regional UK airports into Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS). From Schiphol take a direct train to Den Helder. Ferries from the UK to the Netherlands (for example Harwich → Hook of Holland) then train to Den Helder are also feasible.
From Europe:
Den Helder is accessible by train from Amsterdam, Utrecht and other Dutch cities. International rail (Belgium/Germany) to Amsterdam then onward.
From North America:
Fly into major European hubs such as Amsterdam, London, Frankfurt or Paris. Then connect to Amsterdam Schiphol and onward by train to Den Helder. Allow for at least one lay-over.
From Australia:
Typical route: Australia → major Asian or Middle-East hub (e.g. Singapore, Dubai) → Amsterdam Schiphol → train to Den Helder. Note long travel and multiple segments.
When Is the Best Time to Book a Flight?
Domestic travel: 1-2 months ahead.
International travel: aim 3-6 months ahead.
Holiday travel (peak summer): 3-10 months ahead.
Spring, summer or autumn international trips: look at least 4-6 months ahead.
Start monitoring fares early.
Extra Tips for Finding Cheap Flights
Travel off-peak, consider mid-week flights, alternative airports, sign up for alerts, use incognito mode, and check airline websites for exclusive offers.
Tools to Help You Save
Use flight-tracker tools such as Google Flights, Hopper, and deal-alerts like Jack’s Flight Club to catch price drops.
Planning ahead and staying flexible often yields the best value.
Adam, Jess & team, thanks for suggesting the beautiful Morgenster.
Just back from a most wonderful week's sail from Falmouth to Cherbourg via channel islands.
V.tidy, well run & brilliantly crewed boat. Skipper a 'yes you can' man, few rules, all very relaxed & Dutch. Fab sunny weather a bonus too.
Utterly magical trip.
Churrrrs,
Naomi
Thank You all, guys.
I've had a wonderful time, i've got hooked. I fell in love with the ship, the sea and sailing.
You'll be hearing from me.
Cheers,
Miki
May 2025
- 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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