Mon 23-03-2026, 17:00Paramaribo, Suriname, South America
Fri 03-04-2026, 09:00Le Marin, Martinique
Oosterschelde
11 Nights
OS230326
Paramaribo, Suriname’s vibrant capital, sets the stage for your journey aboard the majestic ‘Oosterschelde.’ Spend a day discovering Fort Zeelandia and historic plantations before embarking on an unforgettable voyage. As the Suriname River widens into the Atlantic, the trade winds fill the sails, and your hands-on adventure begins.
Sailors will feel the thrill of navigating open waters en route to Grenada. Known as the ‘Spice Island,’ Grenada enchants with rainforest hikes, cascading waterfalls, and the Underwater Sculpture Park. From there, we head to Saint Lucia, where the iconic Pitons rise above the Caribbean Sea. Explore this lush island by hiking its peaks or unwinding on its beaches.
The journey concludes in Martinique, a French Caribbean treasure. Le Marin’s tranquil bay offers the perfect spot for a final swim and a festive celebration aboard before disembarking. This 11-day voyage blends serene seafaring, cultural discovery, and island-hopping adventures.
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Voyage
Vessel
VOYAGE HIGHLIGHTS
Paramaribo’s colonial charm and attractions like Fort Zeelandia provide a vibrant start.
Sail the Atlantic, mastering navigation and hoisting sails under expert guidance.
Grenada’s spice plantations, rainforests, and Underwater Sculpture Park offer sensory delights.
Saint Lucia’s Pitons and beaches invite exploration and relaxation.
End in Martinique with a swim and a celebratory evening in Le Marin’s picturesque bay.
Start your sailing adventure in the tropical vibrance of Paramaribo, the capital of Suriname. Nestled along the Suriname River, this bustling city offers a rich tapestry of colonial history and cultural charm. Take your time to explore highlights like Fort Zeelandia, a well-preserved 17th-century fortress, or the serene Frederiksdorp plantation, a glimpse into Suriname’s historic agricultural roots. The ‘Oosterschelde’ welcomes you aboard, with her three tall masts and classic charm. After a warm introduction to the crew and ship, enjoy your first meal as the sun sets over this lush riverside city.
Sailing down the wide, green Suriname River, you’ll feel the excitement build as the Atlantic Ocean opens up before you. The next few days are dedicated to the rhythms of life at sea. You’ll hoist sails under expert guidance, take the helm, and immerse yourself in celestial navigation while the steady trade winds carry us northwest. The sapphire expanse of the ocean contrasts beautifully with the white sails above, providing moments of reflection and awe.
Your first landfall is Grenada, the ‘Spice Island.’ Here, dense rainforests, pristine beaches, and cascading waterfalls await. Adventurous hikers can explore trails that weave through lush greenery, while snorkellers and divers can marvel at the iconic Underwater Sculpture Park. Grenada’s spice plantations add a sensory layer to the experience, where the air is infused with the rich aromas of nutmeg and cinnamon.
From Grenada, we sail to Saint Lucia, where the Pitons dominate the skyline with their striking volcanic peaks. Anchored near Soufrière, the island invites exploration, whether it’s a challenging hike up the Pitons for panoramic views or a relaxing afternoon soaking in the island’s natural beauty and tranquil beaches.
The final leg of the voyage brings us to Martinique, a French Caribbean gem. In Le Marin’s sheltered southern bay, the crystal-clear waters invite a celebratory swim before an evening of camaraderie on board. The festive atmosphere captures the spirit of adventure and the friendships forged during your journey. After breakfast on the final morning, a short taxi ride will take you to Martinique’s international airport, which connects seamlessly to Europe and North America.
Start & End Port
Paramaribo, Suriname, South America
Paramaribo, Capitol of Suriname.
Caribbean Sunrise
Caribbean Sunrise
How to Get There
UK If you’re travelling from the UK, your most straightforward option to get to Paramaribo, Suriname, is by air. Flights commonly layover in Amsterdam before reaching Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport in Paramaribo.
Europe Much like those travelling from the UK, European adventurers will find flights are the most efficient route. Most flights from major European cities connect through Amsterdam.
North America For those journeying from North America, direct flights are rare. Connections typically occur in Miami or in Caribbean airports.
Australia Australians looking to visit Paramaribo will need to prepare for a long haul. Flights usually have multiple layovers, often in the United States and the Caribbean.
What to Do in Paramaribo
History Paramaribo boasts an intriguing blend of colonial architecture and history. Key places to visit include Fort Zeelandia, a 17th-century fortress, and the Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral, one of the largest wooden structures in the Western Hemisphere.
Culture Suriname’s diverse cultural mosaic is reflected in Paramaribo. Festivals like Diwali and Eid are celebrated with gusto. Traditional Maroon and Amerindian crafts can be found in local markets.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor While you’re all experienced sailors, you’d be remiss to not take in the coastal views of the Suriname River. While your tall ship rests, make your way to the boardwalk in Paramaribo for an unhindered view of the river’s mouth, an awe-inspiring experience even for seasoned seafarers.
Entertainment Nightlife in Paramaribo is vibrant, with bars and clubs offering a mix of local and international music. Dance the night away to the rhythm of Surinamese drums or enjoy a quiet evening at a jazz lounge.
Eating Out From Creole to Javanese, the dining scene in Paramaribo is as diverse as its people. For an authentic taste, try ‘moksi-alesi’, a mixed-rice dish beloved by locals.
Nature Suriname is often called the ‘beating heart of the Amazon,’ and for good reason. Natural reserves like Brownsberg Nature Park offer hiking and bird-watching, and the beaches of Galibi are famous for turtle nesting.
Unique Features The Central Market in Paramaribo is unlike any other. Here you’ll find a dizzying array of tropical fruits, exotic fish, and herbal medicines. The market itself is a testament to the country’s ethnic diversity and a unique feature you shouldn’t miss.
Accommodation Known hotels in the area include the Torarica Hotel & Casino and Courtyard by Marriott Paramaribo for those who prefer a touch of luxury. Eco-resorts are also popular among travellers keen to experience Suriname’s natural beauty.
Official Tourist Website For more detailed information on what Paramaribo has to offer, visit the Suriname Tourism Foundation website at Suriname Tourism Foundation Website.
So, why stay landlocked when you can experience the rich tapestry that is Paramaribo? Consider this a nudge from one set of sea-lovers to another.
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.
Le Marin, Martinique
Le Marin, Martinique: A Classic Sailing Destination
Worthwhile Journeys
Le Marin is more than a starting or finishing point for a voyage; it’s a vibrant destination worth exploring. Spend an extra day here to discover its blend of Caribbean charm, nautical heritage, and lush landscapes. It’s an opportunity to enrich your sailing adventure.
Keeping in Touch
You’ll be informed of your ship’s location before joining. Keep the ship’s contact details handy for any last-minute updates or issues.
What to Do in Le Marin
History
Le Marin boasts a rich maritime past. Visit the Église Saint-Étienne, an 18th-century church overlooking the harbour. Its architecture and serene interior speak to the island’s colonial history. For more, explore nearby Fort-de-France and the Schoelcher Library, which highlights Martinique’s cultural evolution.
Culture
The town comes alive with local music, dance, and Creole traditions. If your visit coincides with Carnival, you’ll experience vibrant parades and festive energy. The market near the marina offers local crafts, spices, and culinary treats that reflect the island’s culture.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor
Approaching Le Marin by sea is an experience in itself. Its sheltered harbour, surrounded by lush hills, is one of the Caribbean’s finest anchorages. Sailors will appreciate the stunning coastline dotted with coves, reefs, and beaches. Headlands like Pointe Dunkerque offer sweeping views of the turquoise waters.
Entertainment
Relax in local bars with live music or enjoy waterfront dining under the stars. The marina area offers a lively atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after days at sea.
Eating Out
Le Marin is a haven for food lovers. Try fresh seafood dishes such as grilled lobster, Creole curries, and accras (fried fish fritters). La Marina restaurant offers stunning views alongside a menu celebrating local ingredients.
Nature
Beyond the marina, explore hiking trails leading to hidden beaches and lush rainforest. The nearby Savane des Pétrifications, a unique semi-arid landscape, offers dramatic contrasts to the tropical greenery.
Unique Features
Le Marin stands out for its perfect blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and nautical significance. Its modern marina is the largest in the Lesser Antilles, attracting sailors from around the globe.
Accommodation
For extended stays, consider Hotel Résidence Marine or Le Cap Est Lagoon Resort. These offer comfort and proximity to the marina for easy access to your voyage.
Weather in Le Marin
Le Marin enjoys a tropical climate. Winters (December–February) are warm and dry, with temperatures around 26°C. Spring and summer (March–August) are hotter, averaging 28°C, with occasional rain showers. Autumn (September–November) sees increased humidity and rainfall but remains warm, ideal for lush scenery.
Sea and Beyond: A Responsible Mariner’s Guide
Travelling sustainably can enhance your experience. Offset your carbon footprint by researching sustainable travel methods or investing in carbon credits.
Special Interests
Le Marin is perfect for marine enthusiasts, divers, and eco-tourists. If you’d like recommendations tailored to your interests, let us know.
How to Get There
From the UK
Direct flights to Fort-de-France are available from London. From there, it’s a scenic drive to Le Marin. Ferries from Guadeloupe or Saint Lucia are also an option.
From Europe
Flights from Paris to Fort-de-France are frequent. Many European cities offer connecting flights via Paris or Amsterdam.
From North America
Major US hubs, such as Miami and New York, offer connections to Fort-de-France. From Canada, flights are available with layovers in the US or Europe.
From Australia
Reach Le Marin via stopovers in Los Angeles and Paris. It’s a long journey, but the destination is well worth the effort.
When Is the Best Time to Book a Flight?
Book flights 3–6 months in advance for international trips. Spring and summer are popular sailing seasons, so plan ahead for the best deals.
Meta Description
Discover Le Marin, Martinique: a vibrant port town offering rich culture, stunning coastal views, fresh seafood, and unique attractions for sailors.
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.
