Sail Morgenster along the Normandy coast, from Ouistreham to Le Havre, on a hands-on tall ship voyage filled with history and adventure.

FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

Why choose this voyage?

This journey blends hands-on seamanship with coastal discovery. The stretch of water between Ouistreham and Le Havre is home to fast tides, dramatic headlands, and sheltered harbours. Sailing here means working with the elements—adjusting to shifting winds, trimming sails to make the best speed, and taking your turn on the helm as the ship moves along the coast.

Normandy’s maritime history is everywhere. From the fishing villages that once sent fleets to the Grand Banks to the wartime beaches that saw the largest seaborne invasion in history, this coastline is steeped in stories. Sailing past it aboard a traditional tall ship adds a new perspective, offering a connection to the past that can’t be found on land.

Setting sail from Ouistreham

Ouistreham is a port that has served sailors for centuries. If you arrive early, explore the town’s markets, visit the D-Day landing sites at Sword Beach, or climb the Ouistreham Lighthouse for a panoramic view of the coastline. The Pointe du Siège Nature Reserve, just outside town, is also worth a visit for its dunes and birdlife.

Morgenster will be waiting in the harbour, her masts rising above the fishing boats and ferries. Once aboard, the crew will show you to your bunk and run through a safety briefing before we slip lines and set sail. As we leave the harbour behind, the open sea stretches ahead, and the adventure begins.

Along the Way

The route north follows a coastline of high cliffs, long beaches, and historic ports. With steady winds, Morgenster will make good speed under sail, and you’ll take your turn standing watch, steering, and adjusting the rigging.

Depending on conditions, we may stop at Port-en-Bessin, a small fishing harbour known for its seafood and coastal charm, or Honfleur, one of France’s most picturesque ports, with timbered houses lining its historic quays. Each stop offers a chance to step ashore, stretch your legs, and take in the rich maritime culture of the region.

Evenings at sea are unforgettable. As the sun sets over the Channel, the ship settles into her course, and the sound of the wind in the rigging and the waves against the hull become part of the rhythm of life aboard.

Arriving in Le Havre

Le Havre is a city with a split personality—one part historic port, one part modernist masterpiece. The city was largely rebuilt after World War II, earning it a UNESCO designation for its unique architecture. Its deep-water harbour has welcomed sailors for centuries, making it a fitting end to a voyage along the Normandy coast.

If you have time before heading home, visit the André Malraux Museum of Modern Art, take a walk along the vast beachfront promenade, or explore the lively marina district with its cafés and seafood restaurants. The transition from sea to land is always a reflective moment—five days ago, you stepped aboard as a new crew member, and now, with miles under the keel and fresh skills in hand, you step ashore with a deeper connection to the sea.

Wind, Waves & Weather

Late June brings long days and steady winds, with prevailing westerlies providing good sailing conditions. The coastline offers some shelter, though tides can create lively sailing, especially near headlands. Expect a mix of open-water stretches and calmer inshore sailing, making for a well-balanced 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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