Sail to America’s 250th Anniversary – A rare event
Sail to America’s 250th anniversary aboard the historic tall ship Oosterschelde, crossing the Atlantic from the Bahamas to Virginia during a rare regulatory window allowing foreign tall ships into American ports for official celebrations.
This Atlantic crossing covers approximately 1,100 nautical miles through spring conditions, with hands-on participation in traditional seamanship, watch-keeping, and sail handling. Experience ocean sailing aboard a century-old three-masted schooner while developing skills under professional crew guidance. The passage takes advantage of Gulf Stream currents, with May weather typically bringing moderate winds and warming temperatures.
Oosterschelde’s presence in Virginia during the 250th anniversary means potential access to tall ship gatherings, maritime parades, and celebrations normally impossible for foreign vessels—opportunities that contrast sharply with routine yacht arrivals and won’t reopen for years.
Voyage
Vessel
VOYAGE HIGHLIGHTS
Sail aboard the historic tall ship Oosterschelde, built in 1918.
Approximately eight to ten nights at sea crossing the Atlantic.
Rare regulatory window allowing tall ship access to American ports.
Arrive as official participant in 250th Independence Day celebrations.
Hands-on participation in traditional square-rig and schooner sailing.
Cross approximately 1,100 nautical miles from Bahamas to USA.
Experience Gulf Stream currents and Atlantic marine environments.
Sail to America’s 250th anniversary aboard the historic tall ship Oosterschelde, crossing the Atlantic from the Bahamas to Virginia in time for Independence Day celebrations. This transatlantic passage combines genuine ocean sailing with a rare opportunity to arrive in an American port under sail—something US trade regulations normally restrict for foreign tall ships. The three-masted topsail schooner Oosterschelde, built in 1918 and distinctive with her black and white hull, will carry you approximately 1,100 nautical miles northward through Atlantic waters during May’s favorable spring conditions, arriving as part of official 250th anniversary commemorations rather than as just another yacht in the marina.
Expect active participation in sailing a traditional tall ship across the Atlantic, with hands-on experience in watch-keeping, navigation, and sail handling under professional crew guidance. You’ll spend approximately eight to ten nights at sea experiencing ocean sailing, developing practical seamanship skills, and sharing watches with fellow crew as Oosterschelde makes passage to Virginia’s historic coast for celebrations that welcome tall ships in ways rarely possible at American ports.
The Atlantic Passage Experience
The voyage from the Bahamas to Virginia covers open ocean sailing through varying conditions. May weather typically brings moderate winds and warming temperatures as you sail northward along the eastern seaboard. The passage takes advantage of the Gulf Stream’s northerly current, though Captain Maarten or Jan William determines the optimal route based on prevailing weather systems and conditions encountered.
Your days at sea follow the watch system common to traditional sailing vessels. Watches typically run in three or four-hour blocks, rotating so everyone experiences different times of day. You’ll learn to steer by compass, trim sails for optimal performance, and understand how Oosterschelde responds to wind and sea conditions. The professional crew teach everything from basic rope handling to navigation skills at a pace that suits you.
Between watches, you’re free to read, rest, photograph seabirds, or simply absorb the experience of being days from land with only wind for propulsion. Dawn watches reveal the ocean in soft light. Afternoon sailing often brings dolphins alongside. Night watches under stars provide perspective on the universe rarely achieved on land. The physical activity and fresh air mean you’re genuinely tired when off-watch, and most adapt to the watch system within a couple of days.
Learning Traditional Seamanship
Oosterschelde’s rig combines square topsails forward with fore-and-aft sails on the main and mizzen masts, giving you experience with both configurations. Square sails require coordinated crew work—several people hauling together on braces to swing the yards, others tending sheets. You’ll learn the specific vocabulary of traditional sailing and why precision matters when the captain issues instructions in challenging conditions.
Sail changes happen based on wind strength. As wind builds, you might help furl the topsails. As wind moderates, you’ll help set additional canvas. Each evolution involves coordinated teamwork, with crew members positioned strategically around the deck. Helming—steering the vessel—becomes increasingly enjoyable as you understand how Oosterschelde responds to different conditions.
Navigation aboard the Oosterschelde relies on chart plotters, GPS, radar and AIS. You see how the watchkeepers use these systems in practice and how they work together on a long passage. When time and conditions permit, the crew may also offer a short demonstration of sextant sights so you can observe traditional methods as they were once used at sea.
“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.”
Jenny H.E., Netherlands
Departure from the Bahamas
Nassau provides your starting point, with warm Caribbean waters and steady trade winds. If you arrive early, the city offers colonial architecture, the vibrant fish market at Potter’s Cay, and historical forts overlooking the harbor. The crew use departure day for final provisioning, safety briefings, and ensuring Oosterschelde is properly prepared for the Atlantic crossing. You’ll stow your gear, receive your cabin assignment, meet fellow crew members, and begin learning the vessel’s layout.
The Bahamas’ position at the edge of the Gulf Stream makes it an ideal departure point for northbound passages. As you leave the islands behind, the water deepens from turquoise shallows to the dark blue of open Atlantic.
Arrival in Virginia, USA
Your arrival brings you to Virginia’s historic waters during the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence—and you’ll arrive in a way that’s normally impossible for foreign tall ships. US trade regulations, particularly the Jones Act, severely restrict foreign-flagged vessels from operating in American waters or carrying passengers between US ports. These regulations are eased only for major national celebrations, creating rare windows when tall ships can visit American ports and participate in official events.
This means Oosterschelde’s arrival isn’t just another yacht showing up—it’s part of official 250th anniversary commemorations. The vessel will be welcomed as a participant in celebrations, with access to tall ship gatherings, maritime festivals, and events that recognize traditional sailing vessels as cultural ambassadors. We are unsure exactly what will be happening in Richmond as yet.
Virginia played a central role in America’s founding, and the 250th anniversary brings extraordinary celebrations across coastal communities. Virginia’s ports include Norfolk with its major naval base and maritime heritage, nearby Yorktown where the decisive Revolutionary War battle was fought, and access to Chesapeake Bay’s protected waters and historical sites. Celebrations span multiple days around July 4th with fireworks over the water, tall ship parades, historical reenactments, and festivals showcasing Virginia’s coastal culture.
Consider extending your stay in Virginia to fully experience the celebrations and explore sites like Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown. Many guests book accommodation ashore to attend multiple events and transition gradually from life at sea back to land-based routine.
“I’ve just completed my fourth voyage in four years and it was like a big family holiday! The best part of the voyage was our last sailing day when Maarten let the guest crew sail the Oosterschelde while keeping an eye on us. 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.”
Richard D., British Columbia
Life Aboard Oosterschelde
Oosterschelde, built in 1918, brings over a century of sea-going experience to this passage. Originally constructed as a cargo schooner, her steel hull has proven itself across Atlantic crossings, Arctic voyages, and ocean passages worldwide. At 50 meters (164 feet) length, she’s substantial enough to handle ocean conditions comfortably while maintaining traditional working vessel character.
Accommodation is in shared cabins with proper berths—real beds with mattresses, not hammocks. Cabins typically sleep 2-4 people, with same-gender arrangements in conventional sleeping areas. All cabins have ventilation, reading lights, and storage for personal gear. Bathroom facilities are shared, with proper marine toilets, sinks, and hot water showers.
Meals are prepared fresh daily by the ship’s cook. Expect tasty, well-prepared food providing the energy needed for active sailing. Breakfast includes hot coffee, fresh bread, eggs, and fruit. Lunch is often simpler, allowing the cook to prepare properly for dinner—roasted meats, fish, vegetables, varied international cuisine. Dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. Shared meals in the beautiful saloon create community, with everyone gathered around tables discussing the day’s sailing.
Piano
An unusual feature for a tall ship is the upright piano in the saloon, I have spent wonderful evening’s at the end of voyage singing along to sea shanties and other songs accompanied by the piano.
The saloon serves as the social center when weather drives people below, with long tables, bench seating, bookshelves of maritime literature, and portholes providing natural light. The vessel maintains a well-stocked bar with reasonable prices—purchases are recorded and settled at voyage end. On deck, protected areas allow comfortable sitting even during inclement weather, though most prefer being on deck whenever conditions allow.
Solo travelers are common on these voyages—approximately 75% of Classic Sailing guests travel independently. The small crew size, typically 24-30 guests plus professional crew, creates naturally social atmosphere. Friendships develop quickly during shared watches and meals.
The Professional Crew
Captain Maarten Dijkstra and his professional crew bring decades of combined experience sailing Oosterschelde across oceans. The crew typically numbers 6-8 people: first mate managing deck operations, engineer maintaining systems, cook preparing meals, and able seamen handling watches and guest instruction. They’re skilled teachers who understand that guest crew ranges from complete beginners to experienced sailors.
You’re encouraged to participate as much or as little as you choose, though most find themselves increasingly involved as confidence builds. The physical demands are moderate—you don’t need exceptional fitness, but should be comfortable moving around a vessel that heels and pitches. Tasks are matched to various capability levels.
“The skipper and crew were very friendly, helpful and informative. Accommodation and food was very good. We enjoy the technicalities of sailing a large vessel and the passage planning involved.”
May Atlantic passages offer opportunities to observe marine life. Dolphins sometimes escort the vessel, riding the bow wave or hunting nearby. Various seabirds follow ships across open water—petrels, shearwaters, and gulls that spend their lives ranging across ocean distances. Whales migrate along the Atlantic coast during spring months, though sightings cannot be guaranteed.
The night sky at sea reveals stars with clarity rarely experienced on land. On clear nights, you’ll understand why sailors navigated by celestial bodies for millennia. The crew can point out navigation stars and explain how traditional celestial navigation works alongside modern GPS.
The ocean environment changes noticeably as you sail northward—water temperature, sea state, and weather patterns shift between the Bahamas’ subtropical waters and Virginia’s more temperate zone. Flying fish become common in Gulf Stream waters, sometimes landing on deck overnight.
Practical Information
Why This Voyage is Unusual
For experienced sailors wondering why not simply charter a yacht and sail to Virginia independently: US maritime regulations make that approach far less rewarding. The Jones Act and related regulations severely restrict foreign-flagged vessels from operating in American waters. Private yachts arriving from the Bahamas face bureaucratic hurdles, limited port access, and no special welcome—you’re just another foreign vessel clearing customs.
Oosterschelde’s participation in official 250th anniversary celebrations means entirely different treatment. The vessel arrives as an invited participant in commemorative events, with access to tall ship gatherings, maritime parades, and ceremonies closed to general marina traffic. You’ll be part of deck tours where Americans interested in traditional sailing visit aboard, asking about your crossing and the vessel’s history. The welcome extended to tall ships during major national celebrations contrasts sharply with routine yacht arrivals—this is cultural exchange and historical commemoration, not just cruising.
This regulatory window won’t reopen for years. Major American celebrations that justify easing restrictions for foreign tall ships occur rarely—the next comparable opportunity might not come until America’s tricentennial in 2076. If you’ve considered sailing to America aboard a traditional vessel, this represents an exceptional chance that experienced sailors recognize as genuinely unusual.
Experience Requirements
No previous sailing experience is required, as the professional crew will teach you everything from basic rope handling to navigation skills at a pace that suits you. However, it might be sensible to know you enjoy being at sea before setting off on this long voyage. If you’ve never sailed overnight before, consider a shorter voyage first to confirm you’re comfortable with the motion and lifestyle.
You should be reasonably fit and able to move around a vessel that heels and pitches in ocean conditions. Most tasks don’t require great strength—technique and teamwork matter more than individual power.
What’s Included
The voyage price includes all meals and accommodation aboard, safety equipment, instruction and guidance from the professional crew, and participation in sailing the vessel. Not included: flights to the Bahamas, accommodation before joining or after leaving the vessel, travel insurance (required and must cover maritime activities), personal bar bills, and shore excursions.
Solo Traveler Information
Solo travelers are very welcome. Shared cabins offer both economy and security, with same-gender arrangements. The small crew size and watch system naturally create social connections—you’ll get to know fellow crew members during shared watches, meals, and deck work. Many previous guests specifically mention the friendships formed during passages as voyage highlights.
Booking Considerations
This voyage will be popular due to the unique timing with America’s 250th anniversary celebrations and the rare regulatory window allowing tall ship access to US ports. If you’re interested, enquire early about availability. Classic Sailing has connected guests with traditional sailing experiences for 28 years and can answer questions about what to expect, what to pack, and how to prepare.
Physical Considerations
Ocean passages involve sustained motion as the vessel responds to swells. Some people experience seasickness initially, though most adapt within 24-48 hours. Medication is available, and the crew have extensive experience helping guests adjust. Once adapted, many find the constant motion soothing.
The watch system means interrupted sleep patterns, but most people adapt within a couple of days, learning to sleep when opportunity permits. The physical activity and fresh air mean you’re genuinely tired when off-watch.
The itinerary is subject to weather conditions and the captain’s discretion. However, the advertised departure from the Bahamas and arrival in Virginia remain firm commitments.
“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, rolling around in the middle of the open sea on the deck of an authentic lovely Dutch schooner brilliant! A life changing experience of the open sea.”
Rex (Steve W.), UK
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need sailing experience to join this transatlantic passage?
No previous sailing experience is required, as the professional crew will teach you everything from basic rope handling to navigation skills at a pace that suits you. However, it might be sensible to know you enjoy being at sea before setting off on this long voyage. This Atlantic crossing involves approximately 8-10 nights at sea, which means sustained periods without seeing land. If you’ve never sailed overnight before, consider booking a shorter voyage first to confirm you’re comfortable with the motion, watch system, and lifestyle. The crew are experienced teachers who work with complete beginners through to accomplished sailors.
What is included in the voyage price for Oosterschelde’s passage to Virginia?
The voyage includes all meals prepared fresh daily, accommodation in shared cabins with proper berths, all safety equipment and foul weather gear, comprehensive instruction from the professional crew, and full participation in sailing the vessel. You’re welcome to stand watches, help with sail handling, take the helm, learn navigation, and engage with all aspects of operating a traditional tall ship. Not included are flights to reach the Bahamas, accommodation before joining or after leaving the vessel, travel insurance (required and must cover maritime activities), personal bar bills, and shore excursions. Classic Sailing can provide detailed breakdown when you enquire about specific departures.
Why is arriving by tall ship in America for the 250th anniversary special?
US trade regulations, particularly the Jones Act, severely restrict foreign-flagged vessels from operating in American waters. These regulations are eased only for major national celebrations like the 250th anniversary, creating rare windows when tall ships can visit American ports and participate in official events. Oosterschelde arrives as an invited participant in commemorative celebrations, with access to tall ship gatherings, maritime parades, and ceremonies—not as just another yacht clearing customs at a marina. This welcome and level of participation in anniversary events is impossible during normal circumstances and won’t reopen for years. For experienced sailors, this represents a genuinely unusual opportunity that standard yacht charters to America cannot match.
How many passengers sail aboard Oosterschelde and what is the crew structure?
Oosterschelde typically carries 24 guests up to plus 6 professional crew members. This relatively small number means everyone participates actively in sailing operations and the social atmosphere remains intimate. The professional crew includes the captain, first mate, engineer, cook, and able seamen. The guest-to-crew ratio ensures individual attention for learning, with instruction adapted to your experience level. During watches, you’ll work directly with crew members who can answer questions and demonstrate techniques.
What should I pack for an Atlantic crossing to Virginia in May?
May Atlantic passages require layered clothing adaptable to changing conditions. Essential items include moisture-wicking base layers (avoid cotton), warm mid-layers like fleece, waterproof outer layers for rain and spray, sun protection including hat and high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses with retaining strap, soft-soled deck shoes with good grip, and a headlamp for night watches. Include any prescription medications with extras, seasickness medication if concerned, basic toiletries in soft bags, camera equipment with waterproof protection, and a water bottle. Classic Sailing provides comprehensive packing lists upon booking. Don’t overpack—storage in cabins is limited. The vessel provides foul weather gear, safety harnesses, and life jackets.
For daily tall ship news and voyage updates, follow Classic Sailing on Facebook — over 64,000 sailors already do. facebook.com/ClassicSailing
Start & End Port
Nassau, Bahamas
Worthwhile Journeys
When sailing to or from Nassau, Bahamas, take time to explore the destination beyond its port. This lively capital offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that complements your time at sea. Plan for an extra day or two to fully immerse yourself in the charm and character of this Caribbean gem.
Keeping in Touch
You’ll be notified of your ship’s exact location closer to the joining date. Make a note of the ship’s contact number for any unforeseen delays or issues.
What to Do in Nassau, Bahamas
History
Nassau’s history is entwined with piracy, colonialism, and maritime trade. Visit the Pirates of Nassau Museum for an interactive dive into its swashbuckling past. Explore Fort Charlotte or Fort Fincastle, both offering panoramic views and insight into Nassau’s strategic importance. The Pompey Museum sheds light on the island’s slavery history and its journey toward emancipation.
Culture
Junkanoo, a vibrant festival of music and dance, takes place around Christmas and New Year, showcasing the Bahamian spirit. Straw Market offers handmade crafts and souvenirs, while the National Art Gallery highlights local artistic talent.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor
Sailing into Nassau provides a stunning view of its turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. Landmarks like the Paradise Island Lighthouse greet sailors with historic charm. Explore secluded coves like Clifton Heritage National Park, ideal for anchoring and snorkelling.
Entertainment
Nassau offers lively nightlife, from waterfront bars to casinos at Atlantis Resort. Local music venues play reggae, rake-and-scrape, and calypso, providing an authentic island vibe.
Eating Out
Seafood lovers will delight in Nassau’s conch dishes, grilled snapper, and lobster. Dine at Arawak Cay, known for fresh Bahamian cuisine, or indulge in fine dining at Graycliff Restaurant.
Nature
Cable Beach and Blue Lagoon Island are perfect for unwinding after a voyage. The island also offers opportunities for hiking through lush landscapes, like those found at Ardastra Gardens.
Unique Features
Nassau stands out with its colourful colonial architecture and its role as a historic pirate haven. Its crystalline waters and coral reefs attract divers and sailors alike.
Accommodation
Extend your stay at hotels such as The Ocean Club or British Colonial Hilton. Budget-friendly options include smaller boutique hotels and guesthouses.
Weather in Nassau, Bahamas
Nassau enjoys warm weather year-round. Winter offers mild temperatures averaging 21–24°C. Spring and summer see highs of 27–32°C, with brief afternoon showers. Autumn brings warm breezes and fewer crowds.
Sea and Beyond: A Responsible Mariner’s Guide
Minimise your environmental impact by choosing sustainable transport options and researching carbon-offset programmes for your flight.
Special Interests
Let us know if you’d like recommendations tailored to your interests, from snorkelling spots to cultural tours.
How to Get There
From the UK
Direct flights to Nassau from London Heathrow are available with British Airways. Connecting flights are an option via Miami or Atlanta.
From Europe
Fly from major hubs like Paris or Frankfurt via US cities. Some airlines offer connecting flights through Canada.
From North America
Nassau is accessible with direct flights from New York, Atlanta, Miami, and Toronto.
From Australia
Travel via Los Angeles, connecting to Nassau through Miami. Consider stopovers in the US to break up the long journey.
When Is the Best Time to Book a Flight?
For Nassau, book international flights 3–6 months in advance. Look for deals during the quieter hurricane season (June–November).
Richmond, Virginia USA
Worthwhile Journeys: Richmond, Virginia
You’re 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.
Richmond sits where the fall line of the James River meets the coastal plain—a geographical sweet spot that made it Virginia’s capital and a pivotal city in American history. While most sailors focus solely on the Chesapeake Bay’s waters, those who venture upriver to Richmond discover a city where history reverberates through cobblestone streets, revolutionary spirit mingles with Southern charm, and some of America’s most compelling stories unfold.
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/cell phone number with you in case you are delayed or there are any other problems on the day.
What to Do in Richmond
Historic Sites and Battlefields – Walk the cobblestones of Church Hill to St. John’s Church or visit the American Civil War Visitor Center at Tredegar along the James River.
The James River and Canal Walk – Follow this 1.25-mile urban pathway that reveals Richmond’s maritime heritage and the dramatic rapids that made it a port city.
Monument Avenue and Museum District – Stroll the tree-lined boulevard’s Victorian architecture and visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts with its impressive free collection.
Food and Drink Scene – Sample farm-to-table Southern cuisine, explore over thirty craft breweries, or visit the historic 17th Street Farmers’ Market operating since 1737.
What Makes Richmond Stand Out – Richmond holds a unique position as the former Confederate capital now grappling honestly with its past, featuring dramatic urban whitewater rapids in the city centre and representing the historic head of navigation where maritime culture meets inland America.
Official Tourist Website: https://www.visitrichmondva.com
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.
