Explore the Scillies Archipelago from your own Tall Ship

 

FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

You’ll join Phoenix in Falmouth and have an evening to settle in, getting to know your fellow sailors over dinner and enjoying your first cosy night on board. The following morning you’ll set sail.

It’s a short but serious sea passage to reach the Scillies archipelago, and as such the Skipper will want to time it just right given the conditions. You may enjoy some Cornish coasting first, or you may strike straight out for Land’s End and the islands beyond to make the most of a favourable wind. The crew will teach and guide you all the way. After 10-12 hrs and about 30 miles we will reach the Isles of Scilly and head for anchorage by one of its 55 islands.

The weather will play a large part in deciding in which of the other islands you visit, but there is so much to explore it would be impossible to squeeze it all in anyway! Keep an eye on the water as Dolphins, Seals, Minke Whales, Basking Sharks and Sunfish call the waters around the Islands home. You may even spot puffins!

Drop anchor by sandy white beaches, rocky sea cliffs and secluded coves. The crystal clear waters and the (hopefully) mild and sunny weather will invite you for a swim or a relaxed beach stroll. You could also hike to one of the many historical sites and learn more about the rich and dramatic history and archaeology of the Scillies.

You’ll have the chance to climb the rigging (although this is definitely not compulsory!). There’s no better place to view the stunning scenery than from the top of the mast.

After a few days of island hopping, it’s time to make passage back to the mainland.

WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER

A granite archipelago where the boundary between the land and sea is re-drawn with every tide. The Isles of Scilly are part of Cornwall, but have an island culture and climate shaped by Atlantic Ocean and warm Gulf stream that flows past the islands. You are out in the Atlantic here, so the swells can be long and large, and the wind sometimes gusty. However being an archipelago with endless bays, channels and lees in which to shelter, there’s usually some calm water to be found somewhere if the weather picks up!

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.

What to pack for a sailing holiday on Phoenix

Included

• Sailing Instruction
• Safety Equipment (Life jackets and harnesses)
• All meals on board & refreshments throughout the day
• Soft drinks on board
• Bed linen, duvet, pillows
• A real adventure!

What is not included

• Toiletries
• Alcoholic beverages (these can be purchased on board- consumption is at the discretion of the Skipper)
• Towels
• Wellie boots
• Waterproof jackets & trousers 

What to Bring

Please limit yourself to one soft bag or rucksack as there is limited storage space on board. No hard suitcases please!

Phoenix does not provide waterproof jacket and trousers to guest sailors, so please bring a properly waterproof jacket and trousers on all voyages. These don't have to be expensive sailing oilskins, walking and cycling waterproofs are usually adequate and much lighter to pack, so there really is no need to buy a coastal sailing jacket (unless you really want an excuse to invest in your future sailing). If you need any advice, or lack of a jacket is preventing you participating, contact Classic Sailing.

• Proof of Covid 19 vaccination dates & status (See our terms & conditions: Basically to be safe for all guests and crew in a confined space we ask that you keep your covid vaccination status up to date with appropriate boosters. All crew and volunteers will be expected to be vaccinated too). This is especially important for any trips outside UK waters.
• Passport for European or Ireland Voyages, Reciprocal Free Health Care card in Europe.
• Hats for sun and cold weather.
• At least two sets of warm clothes - layers e.g. tracksuit bottoms, shirts, fleece jacket, wool jumpers, thick socks, and neck scarf. It can get cold at sea even in mid summer. If you'd like to climb the rig, make sure you bring some clothes that you don't mind getting a little tar-stained!
• Swim suit, towel, and suntan lotion.
• A wetsuit for wild swimming if you would like to bring one.
• Flat shoes with a good grip e.g. trainers or sailing deck shoes.
• Sailing boots or wellies 
• (An alternative to boots in summer is to bring another pair of flat shoes with a good grip in case the first pair get wet).
• All terrain type sandals are great for dinghy trips ashore – but you do need shoes which protect your toes for sailing.
• Walking boots are useful and can be these can be worn on deck too
• A small rucksack is useful for going ashore
• Camera, binoculars, sketchbook, a relaxing read.
• Any medication, spare spectacles. Seasickness tablets and/or pressure point wristbands- check with your Doctor, which brand if you suffer asthma or are on medication.
• RYA Cruising Logbook or similar if you want to log your sailing experience e.g. sea miles, night hours
• Musical instruments are always welcome!

 

A truly memorable experience on an iconic tall ship. The crew were outstanding - welcoming, cheerful and thoroughly professional. A novice sailor, I nonetheless found myself accepted and encouraged to participate fully in sailing the ship from hauling on the sheets to going aloft. I hope I'm fortunate enough to sail with them again.

Peter

Good accommodation, professional and helpful crew, very good food!

Anon