Morgenster

Embark	Disembark	Vessel	Duration	Voyage No
Mon 25-05-2026, 17:00Shoreham, West Sussex	Thu 28-05-2026, 10:00Ostend, Belgium	Morgenster	3 Nights	MS250526

Voyage Description

IDEAL VOYAGE FOR…

Meet the Morgenster: A Floating Masterpiece
The Morgenster is no ordinary ship; she’s a square rigger, demanding a good sized crew to make her truly come alive. It’s a bit like directing an orchestra; every hand plays a part in creating a harmonious journey under the expert guidance of the skipper/Captain/Conductor Jakob, he just makes it look so easy. From hoisting the sails to steering the ship, there’s a role for everyone, and you’re encouraged to dive in as much as you wish.

You should know that you are ok on a longer voyage that may include rough seas.

Crossing the Channel

Step aboard the tall ship Morgenster in Shoreham-by-Sea for a three-day Channel crossing that ends in celebration.

Shoreham is a harbour steeped in shipbuilding history, with a working port and an old town of narrow streets, waterfront pubs, and views across to the South Downs. It’s worth arriving early to walk along Shoreham Beach or visit nearby Brighton for its lively seafront and maritime museum.

Once aboard, you’ll sail eastward across the English Channel, one of the busiest and most storied stretches of water in the world. As the sails fill and the ship heels gently, you’ll sense the pulse of a working square-rigger.

Each watch brings something new, seabirds cutting across the bow, distant ships at night, and the rhythm of sea and sky taking over from the shore. You can take the helm, help set the sails, or simply enjoy the movement of the ship through open water. The Channel crossing is short but satisfying, offering enough sea time to understand why traditional sailors spoke of the sea as both challenge and companion.

After two nights at sea, the Morgenster will make her approach to Belgium, gliding into the harbour at Ostend in time for “Oostende voor Anker.” The festival transforms the port into a living showcase of maritime heritage. Hundreds of traditional vessels, from fishing boats to grand tall ships, fill the quays. Maritime music, ship tours, and demonstrations draw thousands of visitors, all celebrating the seafaring traditions of Europe. As a member of the crew, you’ll be part of that spectacle.

Ashore, you might explore Ostend’s broad promenades, sandy beaches, and Art Deco architecture. The Mercator, a famous Belgian training ship, lies nearby and is open to visitors. With its mix of hands-on sailing, coastal history, and festival atmosphere, this voyage offers both adventure at sea and a warm welcome ashore.

Going out on the bowsprit gives you a great perspective of the rest of the ship!

WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER

The English Channel in May normally has good weather, if you had to name the least windy month May springs to mind.

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.

Start & End Port

Shoreham, West Sussex

Worthwhile Journeys
Shoreham, West Sussex, sits neatly between the South Downs and the sea, just west of Brighton. It’s a quiet working port with a strong maritime identity and a welcoming local community. If your Classic Sailing voyage starts or ends here, take time to explore before or after your trip. This isn’t simply a staging point; it’s a destination worth discovering. The harbour, the river, and the coastal paths all tell stories of trade, tides, and the English Channel.

Keeping in Touch
Your ship’s exact berth will be confirmed closer to joining time. You’ll receive details by email. Make sure you have the vessel’s mobile number with you in case of delays or last-minute questions on the day.

What to Do in Shoreham

History
Shoreham’s maritime history is woven through its narrow streets and old harbour. The Shoreham Fort, built in 1857, stands guard over the harbour entrance, offering panoramic views of the coast. The Marlipins Museum, one of the oldest secular buildings in Sussex, holds a fascinating collection of local maritime artefacts, ship models, and trade memorabilia.

Culture
A short stroll from the quay, Shoreham’s town centre hosts regular markets, local art galleries, and live performances at the Ropetackle Arts Centre. Summer brings outdoor concerts and community festivals on the riverfront. Brighton, just ten minutes east by train, adds further cultural weight with its theatre scene, independent shops, and coastal events.

Sites of Interest to a Sailor
Approaching Shoreham from seaward, sailors pass the distinctive breakwaters and modern harbour entrance, marked by twin green and red lights. To the west, Worthing’s broad sands stretch out; to the east, Brighton’s skyline rises with its pier and observation tower clearly visible. From the South Downs above Mill Hill, you can look down over the River Adur and the sea lanes beyond—perfect vantage points for weather watching.

Entertainment
Evenings in Shoreham are relaxed and friendly. Riverside pubs such as The Bridge Inn and The Ferry serve local ales and seafood. The Ropetackle hosts jazz, folk, and comedy nights year-round, and Brighton’s nightlife is close enough for those seeking something livelier.

Eating Out
Fresh fish from the harbour features on many local menus. The Sussex Produce Company and Into the Blue restaurant both champion regional ingredients. For something casual, Shoreham’s beach cafés and riverside eateries make ideal spots to watch the sunset over the Adur.

Nature
Shoreham Beach Nature Reserve is a haven for coastal wildlife and seabirds. The South Downs National Park lies just inland, offering excellent walking routes with sea views. The Adur Ferry Bridge links the town to the beach, creating easy access for anyone wanting to combine sailing with coastal exploration.

Unique Features
Shoreham combines small-town calm with direct access to Brighton’s vibrancy and London’s transport links. It remains a working port where fishing boats, yachts, and cargo vessels share the same water—something increasingly rare on the south coast.

Accommodation
The Crabtree Guest House and The New Sussex Hotel both provide good mid-range options near the waterfront. For a touch of luxury, the Harbour Hotel in Brighton is just a short train ride away and ideal for a night ashore.

Official Tourist Website
https://visitshoreham-by-sea.com

Weather in Shoreham
Winter brings cool, often windy conditions with average temperatures around 6°C. Spring is mild, with increasing sunshine and calmer seas. Summer is pleasantly warm, usually between 18–22°C, ideal for coastal sailing. Autumn often stays settled until late October, with crisp air and changing light—excellent for photography.

Sea and Beyond: A Responsible Mariner’s Guide
If you’re travelling to or from Shoreham, consider taking the train. Brighton and Shoreham are both on the mainline between London and the south coast, with direct services from London Victoria, Gatwick Airport, and other regional hubs. Trains are frequent and reliable, cutting your carbon footprint significantly compared to driving or flying.

Special Interests
If you’d like us to help you explore a personal interest—perhaps coastal walking, maritime art, or historic shipyards—let us know when you book.

How to Get There

From the UK
Shoreham-by-Sea railway station lies on the main coastal route between Brighton and Portsmouth. Regular trains run from London Victoria, London Bridge, and Gatwick Airport to Shoreham (average journey 1 hour 20 minutes). Drivers can use the A27 coast road, connecting Shoreham easily with Brighton, Portsmouth, and Southampton.

From Europe
Ferries from Dieppe, Caen, and Le Havre arrive at Newhaven or Portsmouth, both within easy reach of Shoreham by train or road. London Gatwick Airport, less than an hour away by train, offers numerous European flight connections.

From North America
Fly into London Gatwick (the closest airport) or London Heathrow. From Gatwick, take the direct train to Shoreham-by-Sea. From Heathrow, transfer by train or coach to Gatwick or central London before continuing south.

From Australia
Flights from Sydney, Melbourne, or Perth connect via Middle Eastern or Asian hubs to London Heathrow or Gatwick. From either airport, it’s straightforward to reach Shoreham by train or hire car.

When Is the Best Time to Book a Flight?
Domestic travel: book 1–2 months ahead.
International: 3–6 months in advance.
Holiday travel: 3–10 months early.
High-demand periods: monitor prices early.
For spring to autumn voyages, book 4–6 months ahead for the best value.

Extra Tips for Finding Cheap Flights
Travel midweek and off-peak. Compare nearby airports like Heathrow and Gatwick. Use flight trackers such as Google Flights or Hopper to watch fares. Subscribing to flight deal alerts like Jack’s Flight Club can reveal sudden discounts.

Tools to Help You Save
Skyscanner’s Savings Generator and Google Flights’ Explore tool can both help identify the cheapest times to fly. Staying flexible with dates often makes a significant difference.

Parking
Public parking is available around Shoreham Harbour and the town centre. To find or reserve a space, visit https://www.justpark.com.

Ostend, Belgium

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 Ostend

History
Ostend’s maritime past runs deep. Once a modest fishing village, it became the summer retreat of Belgian royalty and an important naval base. The Atlantic Wall Museum provides an insight into the city’s strategic wartime role, while the Mercator, a three-masted training ship turned museum, offers a fine introduction to Belgium’s seafaring heritage. The Mu.ZEE gallery also traces Ostend’s place in the nation’s artistic and cultural evolution.

Culture
Ostend hosts several lively festivals throughout the year, including the Theater aan Zee arts festival in summer and the Crystal Ship street art event each spring. The annual Paulusfeesten brings open-air concerts, food stalls, and dancing to the city’s old quarter, a welcome celebration for any sailor coming ashore.

Sites of Interest to a Sailor
Approaching Ostend by sea, you’ll spot its long breakwaters and the distinctive white lighthouse at the harbour entrance. The North Sea coast here is broad and open, with steady winds ideal for sailing. Ashore, the promenade and the Royal Galleries frame views of passing ships, while the nearby harbour locks and fish market reveal daily working life tied to the sea.

Entertainment
After time aboard, Ostend offers a relaxed but vibrant scene. Beachfront cafés and bars stretch along the promenade, many with live music through the summer. The Kursaal Casino hosts concerts and comedy, and local pubs such as Lafayette or the Penny offer an unpolished charm popular with sailors and locals alike.

Eating Out
Seafood is central to Ostend’s culinary identity. Try freshly caught shrimp, mussels, or sole in one of the harbour restaurants, or head inland for Flemish classics paired with local beer. De Mosselbeurs and Kombuis are well-regarded for straightforward, quality dishes that suit a sailor’s appetite.

Nature
Beyond the city, the dunes and coastal reserves of Raversyde and Zwin offer space to walk and breathe sea air. The beaches stretch for miles, with cycle paths and birdwatching points along the way. For a change of pace, hire a bicycle or take a short tram ride to explore the Belgian coast.

Unique Features
What sets Ostend apart is its blend of working port and seaside resort. It retains the grit of a real harbour town while offering culture and comfort. Few North Sea ports provide such easy access between ship, sea, and city centre.

Accommodation
For those extending their stay, the Hotel du Parc offers Art Deco charm near the seafront, while Thermae Palace provides spa facilities within walking distance of the marina. Smaller guesthouses and apartments are plentiful and well-suited to sailors looking for a night or two ashore.

Official Tourist Website
https://www.visitoostende.be/en

Weather in Ostend
Winters are cool and often breezy, with temperatures around 5°C. Spring brings clearer skies and fresh winds from the sea. Summers are mild, typically 18–22°C, ideal for sailing and sightseeing. Autumn sees shorter days but often calm, sunny spells before winter storms set in.

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
Eurostar trains connect London to Brussels, with onward trains to Ostend taking around an hour. Dover to Calais ferries, followed by a short drive or train journey, are also an option. Flights to Brussels or Ostend-Bruges Airport are available but less convenient than train travel.

From Europe
Ostend is well served by rail links from Brussels, Bruges, and other European cities. Buses connect from Paris, Amsterdam, and Cologne, while flights to Brussels offer easy onward connections.

From North America
Travellers can fly from major hubs such as New York, Boston, or Toronto to Brussels, then take the train to Ostend in under two hours. Amsterdam and Paris are also useful gateways.

From Australia
Typical routes connect via Dubai, Doha, or Singapore to Brussels. From there, the train to Ostend offers a comfortable and scenic continuation of the journey.

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.

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

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.

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.