Set sail from Porto, a historic city rich in maritime heritage and culture, and begin an unforgettable journey aboard the Oosterschelde. After departing the scenic Douro River estuary, we’ll sail southwesterly to Madeira, a volcanic island renowned for its rugged coastline and mild winter temperatures.
The five-day passage to Madeira offers a mix of activity and relaxation, with opportunities to steer, assist with sails, and enjoy the camaraderie of life on deck. Once there, explore Madeira’s natural beauty before continuing for another two days at sea towards Tenerife.
The voyage ends in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, where you can immerse yourself in its unique blend of city life and volcanic landscapes. Whether you stay on or continue with us on our journey to Cape Verde, this adventure offers the perfect mix of blue water sailing and cultural discovery.
Voyage
Vessel
VOYAGE HIGHLIGHTS
Sail from Porto, Portugal’s maritime gem, with its historic streets and iconic port wine.
Enjoy five days of ocean sailing to Madeira, assisting with sails and navigation.
Relax on deck, spot flying fish, and take in the warming weather.
Explore Madeira’s volcanic cliffs and lush landscapes, even in winter.
Sail two more days to Tenerife, watching for sea turtles along the way.
Arrive in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, a vibrant city with volcanic wonders.
Begin your adventure in Porto, a captivating city bursting with maritime heritage and cultural charm. Wander its historic streets, savour world-famous port wine, and take in the majestic views from the Douro River before setting sail. Portugal’s seafaring history resonates throughout the city, making it an ideal departure point for this blue water journey.
Board the stunning Oosterschelde and prepare for a voyage of discovery. Departing from the Douro River estuary, you’ll feel the thrill of open waters as we head southwesterly towards Madeira, a journey of approximately five days. The watch schedule offers a balance of involvement and relaxation. You’ll steer, assist with sails, and enjoy storytelling sessions on the aft deck. Between watches, unwind with a good book, or simply marvel at the changing scenery and ever-warmer temperatures.
Madeira is a highlight of the voyage, with its volcanic cliffs, lush greenery, and mild winter temperatures. Explore its rugged beauty or hike along its famed levadas. After our stop in Madeira, it’s another two days at sea. Watch for flying fish or perhaps a glimpse of sea turtles as the waters around you come alive.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, our final destination, offers an exciting blend of bustling city life and natural beauty. Consider extending your stay to visit Tenerife’s volcanic landscapes, vibrant markets, or the iconic Mount Teide. This voyage is part of a longer journey to Cape Verde, so you can choose to extend your adventure for an even more immersive sailing experience. Discounts available.
Start & End Port
Porto, Portugal
Porto, Portugal: A Classic Sailing Holiday Guide
Worthwhile Journeys
Porto is not just a gateway to the sea but a destination rich in history and culture. Its charm lies in its blend of eras and attitudes, offering an experience that extends well beyond its harbour.
Keeping in Touch
The exact location of your ship in Porto will be confirmed closer to your joining time. Note the ship’s contact number for any travel updates or delays.
What to Do in Porto
History
Porto’s Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of winding lanes, zigzagging staircases, and beautifully tiled churches at every turn. Roman ruins lie hidden beneath ancient storefronts, and the district retains its old-world charm as tripeiros (locals) gather in traditional plazas.
Culture
Porto is a city of contrasts, where narrow medieval alleyways meet baroque churches and stately beaux-arts boulevards. The São João Festival in June offers a vibrant snapshot of Porto’s enduring traditions. Art and architecture enthusiasts will enjoy Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Museu de Arte Contemporânea and Rem Koolhaas’ Casa da Música, both of which have turned the city into a cultural pilgrimage site.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor
The mouth of the Rio Douro offers breathtaking views, with Porto’s hilly skyline unfolding in a mix of architectural styles. Sailors will appreciate the dramatic approach to the city and the nearby Foz do Douro lighthouse.
Entertainment
Porto’s rejuvenated centre now hums with energy. Discover its lively bars, music venues, and boutiques that reflect a youthful vitality. Experience Fado music or explore the burgeoning art scene in new galleries.
Eating Out
Seafood lovers will find delights such as freshly grilled sardines, bacalhau dishes, and the hearty francesinha. For something truly local, try Porto’s tripe dishes, reflecting the city’s nickname “Tripeiros.”
Nature
The beaches of Matosinhos and the Douro River trails offer stunning escapes. Enjoy the rugged coastline or take a leisurely riverside walk amidst natural beauty.
Unique Features
Porto’s remarkable renaissance is evident in its efficient metro, ambitious urban renewal projects, and an emerging youthful energy. Its mix of history and modernity makes it truly distinctive.
Accommodation
Stay in Porto’s historic centre at boutique hotels such as Torel Palace Porto or indulge in the luxury of The Yeatman, a haven for wine enthusiasts overlooking the Douro River.
Porto enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Winters are mild and damp, spring is sunny and fresh, summers are warm and dry, and autumn brings cool, pleasant evenings.
Sea and Beyond: A Responsible Mariner’s Guide
Consider taking a train or coach to Porto to reduce your environmental impact. If flying is necessary, look into carbon offset schemes to minimise your footprint.
How to Get to Porto
From the UK
Direct flights are available from major cities like London and Manchester. For a scenic journey, take trains via Paris and Madrid.
From Europe
Porto is easily accessible by flights, buses, and high-speed trains from Lisbon or Madrid.
From North America
Flights from hubs like New York and Toronto often connect through Lisbon or other European cities.
From Australia
Fly to Porto via stopovers in Dubai or Doha, with connections through European hubs like Frankfurt or Paris.
When Is the Best Time to Book a Flight?
For international travel to Porto, book your flights 3–6 months in advance, especially for the busy summer season.
Santa Cruz, Tenerife
Santa Cruz, Tenerife travel.
There are cheap flights to Tenerife from all over Europe as it is a major winter sun holiday destination. You can probably find a flight from regional airports too. There are too many discount airline options to mention.
The harbour in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is huge, with two marinas and miles of harbour wall and quaysides for cruise ships and bigger tall ships. Berths for tall ships are small fry for the port authorities as the bigger more profitable ships get priority, so the sailing ships captain will have to go where ever the port authority puts them, and they may not get to stay there for very long.
Please book a flight that gets in at a sensible time for you to get to the ship on time, even if it means getting there the day before and booking into a hotel.
If your vessel is small enough to get into one of the marinas then we can usually be a bit more specific as to where to find the ship beforehand.
The ships exact location in port is often controlled by the port authorities and they will only allocate a docking position a few days before. You will be informed as soon as possible of their exact joining location.
Any changes will be communicated to you before your voyage start date. Make sure you make a note of the ship’s number found in your confirmation email in case of any problems on the day.
Take a Photo of your Ship
We recommend you take a photo of your ship with you to show taxi drivers so they can get to to the right ship!
You can usually see the ships masts on the other side of the harbour, but the taxi drivers will know the shortest route to get to that berth. If you are the independent type with a rucksack walking from the bus depot, chose your route with care, or ask a local, or you could end up walking miles without finding the cruise ship / public entry to the dock.
A day out in Santa Cruz.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital city of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, offers a fantastic range of activities and attractions for a memorable day out. Here’s a description of a day in Santa Cruz de Tenerife:
Start your day by exploring the vibrant city center. Take a stroll along the wide avenues and admire the beautiful architecture, blending traditional Spanish and modern styles. Begin at Plaza de España, a picturesque square with a large artificial lake that reflects the surrounding buildings. Enjoy the lush gardens and fountains while savoring a leisurely breakfast at one of the nearby cafés.
Next, head towards the iconic Auditorio de Tenerife, a stunning architectural masterpiece known for its unique design resembling a giant wave or a sail. Take a moment to appreciate the grandeur of this concert hall and capture some photos of the magnificent structure against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean.
From there, make your way to the bustling Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África, a lively market where locals gather to buy fresh produce, meats, and other goods. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, sample local fruits, and perhaps purchase some traditional Canarian products or souvenirs.
For a touch of culture, visit the Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre (Museum of Nature and Man), located in the heart of the city. This fascinating museum showcases the natural and cultural history of the Canary Islands, featuring exhibits on archaeology, anthropology, and the unique flora and fauna of the archipelago. Explore the collections, including mummies, Guanche artifacts, and interactive displays that provide insight into the islands’ rich heritage.
Afterward, take a short stroll to the Parque García Sanabria, a lush urban park filled with exotic plants, sculptures, and colorful flower beds. Find a shaded spot and relax, or perhaps grab a snack from one of the park’s cafes while enjoying the tranquil ambiance.
To satisfy your appetite, head to the coastal area of Santa Cruz and indulge in a seafood lunch at one of the local restaurants. Try some of the freshly caught fish, octopus, or Canarian-style potatoes known as “papas arrugadas.”
In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, enjoying the refreshing sea breeze and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. If you’re up for some shopping, browse the numerous boutiques and department stores lining the streets, offering everything from designer brands to unique local crafts.
As the day draws to a close, make your way to the Parque Marítimo César Manrique, a stunning saltwater swimming complex designed by the renowned Canarian artist César Manrique. Relax in the sun, swim in the crystalline pools, or unwind in the jacuzzis, all while admiring the striking architecture and surrounding palm trees.
Finally, end your day by savoring a delicious dinner at one of Santa Cruz’s many restaurants, where you can indulge in a variety of international cuisines or savor traditional Canarian dishes. Pair your meal with a local wine or a refreshing tropical cocktail to complement the flavors.
With its vibrant atmosphere, cultural attractions, delightful cuisine, and beautiful coastal setting, a day out in Santa Cruz de Tenerife promises to be a delightful and enriching experience.
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.
Kit List
What to pack for a sailing holiday on Oosterschelde
Included
Sailing Instruction
Safety Equipment (life jackets and harnesses)
All meals to including 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.
Oosterschelde 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.
Oosterschelde 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
Hobart to Christchurch New Zealand
Oosterschelde OS121224 Voyage Feedback
Hi Adam
On the plus, the crew including Captain and cook were excellent. I saw orca whales, dolphins and various birds. Grant, the ornithologist researcher gave a couple of talks which I thoroughly enjoyed. There was a Christmas meal onboard (see photo below) which was nice. There was a mix of weather from strong winds and rain to days when the wind was absent so the ship had to motor.
As a relative novice sailor compared to the more experienced sailors, I found one or two days when the night watches coincided with these rough conditions challenging to maintain a footing.
I found the break when the ship docked for 2 days at Bluff a welcome relief from sailing and a chance to explore ashore at Invercargill.
I am glad I went on the voyage as I knew it would be a challenge. This would suit the more experienced sailor. However I would still give it 5 out of 5 even though I was not completely suited to it.
Frank
Great trip on a wonderful ship. Crew were very friendly, helpful and professional. The passengers were also very friendly and a real mix of interesting people. I had a great first time on a big sailing ship.
At the Helm
Steve H - July 2023
Cape Verde & Caribbean Crew
Together with my husband Bert we were on the trip around the Cape Verde on the Oosterschelde and had a great time. The crew was fantastic and very friendly. They showed us what has to be done to sail a beautiful ship like this. Made some new friends among the passengers and it was a trip I will not forget for a long while. And who knows when we will meet again. Thanks" Jenny H E. from NL
I've just completed my fourth voyage in four years and it was like a big family holiday! Familiar faces welcomed us aboard, we met up with guests and friends from previous voyages and the islands that we visited in the French West Indies were beautiful. The best part of the voyage was our last sailing day when the "lunatics took over the asylum". Maarten let the guest crew sail the Oosterschelde from St Lucia to Martinique (while keeping an eye on us to make sure that neither we or the ship were in danger) It was hard work but safe to say that I learned a lot more on that day, having to think about what I was doing, rather than just being told what to do. We are just about to book our next voyage" Richard D. British Columbia
What was the best bit? Variety of sailing and the islands visited.
What was the worst bit? One rough passage.
Why do you sail? We enjoy the technicalities of sailing a large vessel and the passage planning involved. We generally enjoy off-shore sailing.
Any other comments The skipper and crew were very friendly, helpful and informative. Accommodation and food was very good.- Phillip B - Cape Verde
Ocean Passages
Credit to Robbin Conner - Oosterschelde Ocean Crossing from Cape Verde to Rotterdam
Canada Tall Ships Race Participants
So happy to have sailed from Miramichi to Quebec! So good to be on this beautiful grand old lady with only nice and funny people. Miss you all! And for this moment especially Richards' breakfast. Thank you so much Jenny Edward Richard Jan-Willem Jurriaan and Maarten, and all the other guests for this wonderful and amazing time. Love and hugs xxx Ernst and Ellen V.
The dream come true! What a georgous trip I had between Québec and Halifax! A part of me will be onboard forever... Il will be back to you, most beautiful ship of the world! I will be back, Oosterschelde! What a crew! What a captain! Marteen, I could write a novel with you as the major character! You are an amazing guy, a good, a great man! Your team is fantastic! I am now back ashore but... "I must go down to sea again... "
" C'est pas l'homme qui prend la mer
C'est la mer qui prend l'homme "
Pierre-Luc. Canada
Now is the hour that I must say goodbye, soon you'll be sailing far across the sea. We'll meet again, don't know where, don't know when. Maybe in the south pacific or around Cape Horn. Captain Arian, I would sail anywhere in the world with you, your crew and Oosterschelde. Warren C. New Zealand
The Word from European Voyages
Just sailed on the Oosterschelde across the North Sea to the Netherlands! Great taste of sailing would recommend to anyone who is thinking of dipping their toe in. Loved every second of it, hauling ropes out in the elements (mainly with the Sun on my back) rolling around in the middle of the North Sea on the deck of an authentic lovely Dutch schooner brilliant! A life changing experience of the open sea, next stop RYA competent crew! Many thanks to Adam and Classic Sailing for all the arrangements at such short notice and thanks too to all the crew for looking after me and feeding me so well. Be warned though life ashore afterwards can seem very hum-drum." Rex aka Steve W
I want to thank the crew for the three magnificent days passed on board, between "Golfe du Morbihan" and "Le Havre". I sailed on numerous occasions on about ten different ships, and this sailing on Oosterschelde is the best experience I ever had. I was impressed by the good performances of the ship, and by the way the crew adjusts sails permanently so that the ship always gives the best ; it was an immense pleasure to participate of my best in all these operations. I regret that our different languages did not allow us to communicate more, because all the crew members were really very nice and very thoughtful with us. I have now only an envy: to embark again on Oosterschelde, to be on the deck to participate in the laborers of sails, to climb on the mast to help the crew, and to share again these excellent moments given by sailing on Oosterschelde !!! " Excuse my bad English, Gilbert P. Vernon, France
Vessel Gallery
Three Masted Topsail Schooner Oosterschelde 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.
