| Embark | Disembark | Vessel | Duration | Voyage No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sat 20-04-2024, 16:00Nice, France | Thu 25-04-2024, 10:00Ajaccio, Corsica | Santa Maria Manuela | 5 Nights | SM200424 |
Join a brilliant five-day adventure in Nice, a city rich in maritime history. Once we set sail, you’re not just a passenger; you’re part of the crew. Help with the sails, learn some knots, and share sea tales.
Next stop is Port Torres, where Roman history and Sardinian culture are on the menu. Explore Asinara National Park, a natural gem with a storied past, as we journey to our final destination, Ajaccio.
Celebrate the voyage’s end with a deck BBQ and wander through Ajaccio’s, birthplace of Napoleon and its historic sites.e often against the prevailing winds so the engines may play a major part in the voyage.”
“Terrific crew and ship and a lovely passage to the Azores. Crew and guests were very good and patient with someone who only spoke English. This is a terrifically well run vessel. Excellent accommodation, well serviced by a professional crew. All very friendly, helpful and willing to give information throughout. Many opportunities to get involved in most aspects of the ships operations. Very many thanks.“
Keith
| Vessel type / Rig | Gaff Schooner |
| Guest Berths | 50 |
| Beam | 33ft |
| Draft | 18ft |
| Deck Length | 173ft |
| Overall Length | 225ft |
| Tonnage | 992 tons |
| Year Built | 1937 |
Nice: The Starting Line We embark in Nice, a Mediterranean gem with a maritime history that reaches back to its days as the Roman naval base, Nikaia. Spend some time wandering the Promenade des Anglais or soaking up the atmosphere in Vieux Nice before we cast off.
Sailing to Sardinia Once onboard, we set our course towards Sardinia. Here’s where you get to join in. You’re welcome to help the crew with setting the sails and even take a turn at the helm. Feeling a traditional sailing ship respond to your touch is something you won’t easily forget.
Skill Building and Relaxation Throughout the journey, we offer knot classes for those keen on learning a nautical skill. If weather permits, there’s also the chance to climb the mast or simply kick back on the bowsprit. A daily ritual worth mentioning is a sunset drink on deck to wind down and recap the day’s adventures.
Port Torres: Time Travel in Sardinia Our first port of call is Port Torres. This Sardinian jewel was founded by none other than Julius Caesar. Savour some local dishes at the waterfront eateries and take some time to visit the Roman ruins, thermal baths, and Antonine Palace. If shopping is your kind of exploration, the local markets won’t disappoint.
Asinara National Park: A Tale of Two Eras We navigate past Asinara National Park, Sardinia’s second-largest island with a unique history. Once a quarantine zone and prison, it’s now an ecological haven. Its beaches, particularly dusted with white quartz pebbles, are considered some of the most beautiful in Sardinia.
Ajaccio: The Final Chapter We round off our voyage in Ajaccio, the Corsican birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. As we drop anchor, we have a deck BBQ to celebrate the voyage, share stories, and perhaps plan the next adventure. Once we’ve said our goodbyes, the old port and historic sites of Ajaccio offer a fitting end to a journey steeped in maritime history.
Rich in history and culture
Five days of hands-on sailing blended seamlessly with rich cultural and historical visits. Are you ready to come aboard?
When embarking on a sailing adventure, it’s important to understand that the word “itinerary” takes on a flexible meaning. This isn’t a road trip where you can plan each stop down to the minute. Instead, we embrace what we call a dynamic itinerary. Our skippers are as excited as you are to experience the voyage’s potential highlights, but the ultimate guide here is Mother Nature. We navigate in harmony with her, never against her.
So, what’s a dynamic itinerary? It means our captain or skipper is always prepared with a plan that’s anything but set in concrete. Weather conditions, sea currents, and other unexpected elements can lead to adjustments. However, rest assured that the final port is a constant goal and our track record for timely arrivals is something we’re really proud of.
In setting your expectations for the trip, know that our descriptions draw from a wealth of past experiences and voyages. However, they are not promises carved in stone; they are possibilities tethered to the realities of seafaring life. Routes, activities, and destinations are subject to change, often due to complex weather patterns, and safety requirements that may require swift decisions. That is the skill our Captains excel at.
So when you join us, come with an adventurous spirit and a willingness to let the voyage unfold as it will. Trust in the skill of your skipper, the strength of your vessel, and the wisdom of centuries of seafaring tradition. Here, the journey genuinely is the destination.
The weather should be warm and sunny but the winds are typically from the North so you might have to tack quite a lot, or do a bit of strategic motoring.
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.
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.
Every customer sailing with us will need to fill in basic medical questions on their booking application. If you are not sure if your current level of fitness and agility are up to a voyage, then please ring the Classic Sailing Office on 01326 53 1234 and we can chat through your concerns and possibly find options that might suit you better.
From the UK
The easiest and quickest way to reach Nice from the UK is by air. Direct flights operate from various UK airports including London, Manchester, and Edinburgh. If you fancy a more leisurely trip, consider taking the train. The Eurostar will take you to Paris, from where you can catch a TGV to Nice. Driving is also an option but prepare yourself for a long journey, and remember that you’ll need to sort out your vignette for French toll roads.
From Europe
Being in the heart of the French Riviera, Nice is easily accessible from many European countries. The train system is excellent, with TGV services connecting major cities. For those who prefer road trips, major highways lead into the city. Buses and coaches also run regularly, providing a budget-friendly alternative.
From North America
Transatlantic flights generally land at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris. From there, you can take a domestic flight or train to Nice. Keep in mind that this is a long journey, so plan accordingly.
From Australia
If you’re travelling from Down Under, expect a long haul. Flights from major cities like Sydney and Melbourne will generally have at least one stopover, commonly in Asia or the Middle East. Once you reach Europe, a domestic flight or train will take you to your final destination.
History
Nice is steeped in history. You’ll find landmarks like the Marc Chagall National Museum and the ruins of the Roman amphitheatre, Cimiez. These sites are a treasure trove for history buffs.
Culture
The city is a cultural melting pot with a blend of French and Italian influences. Festivals like the Nice Carnival and Fête de la Musique are local traditions worth experiencing.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor
Even without setting foot in a marina, Nice has plenty to offer a sailor. The panoramic view of the Mediterranean Sea from Castle Hill is stunning. Also, check out the lighthouse at Cap Ferrat and the beautiful bays of Villefranche-sur-Mer and Beaulieu-sur-Mer.
Entertainment
For those looking for a more upbeat vibe, the city has a vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re into jazz bars or dance clubs, Nice has it all. And for a truly French experience, why not try an evening at the opera?
Eating Out
Nice offers a culinary feast. From high-end Michelin-starred restaurants to cosy local bistros serving Niçoise specialties, you’re in for a treat. Don’t miss out on trying a pan bagnat or a serving of ratatouille.
Nature
The stunning landscape surrounding Nice is not to be missed. The Mercantour National Park is a haven for hikers and nature lovers. The beaches offer not only sun and sea but also a variety of water sports for the adventurous.
Unique Features
The Promenade des Anglais is an iconic seafront esplanade. Stroll along and take in the unique blend of traditional and modern architecture that characterises the city. Don’t forget the flower market at Cours Saleya, it’s a sensory experience you won’t forget.
Accommodation
From luxury hotels like the Negresco to charming bed and breakfasts, Nice offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and taste.
Official Tourist Website
For more information, head over to the official Nice Tourism website: Nice Tourist Office
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.
UK:
From the UK, you have a few viable options for getting to Ajaccio. Flying is the most straightforward, with direct flights from London to Ajaccio taking just over 2 hours. If you’re after a bit more adventure, another option is to fly into mainland France, then catch a ferry from Marseille or Nice to Ajaccio.
Europe:
For European travellers, flying is again the quickest route. Several airlines operate routes from various European cities directly into Ajaccio. Alternatively, take a train to a French port city and then hop on a ferry to Ajaccio. The ferry is a particularly good choice for those already located in southern France or Italy.
North America:
Visitors from North America will likely need to catch a connecting flight through a major European hub such as Paris or London. From there, it’s a relatively short flight to Ajaccio.
Australia:
For the long-haul journey from Australia, you’ll be looking at a couple of layovers, most likely in Asia and then Europe. Once in Europe, a direct flight or ferry from mainland France are your options for reaching Ajaccio.
History:
Delve into the island’s rich past with a visit to Maison Bonaparte, the ancestral home of Napoleon. For a broader look at Corsican history, the Fesch Museum offers an array of historical artefacts.
Culture:
Local culture is a delightful blend of French and Italian influences. Don’t miss the local festivals like Ajaccio’s Carnival, filled with music, dancing, and traditional Corsican food.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor:
From the Gulf of Ajaccio to the Sanguinaires Islands, the coastal scenery around Ajaccio is stunning. Though you won’t find lighthouses as you might in more northern climes, the natural harbours and numerous secluded bays provide their own brand of maritime charm.
Entertainment:
For a night out, Ajaccio offers a variety of bars, cafes, and even a casino. Whether it’s Corsican polyphonic singing or more modern tunes, you’ll find the island has a lively music scene.
Eating Out:
Corsican cuisine is robust and flavourful. Try local specialties like wild boar or seafood dishes like “aziminu,” a Corsican fish soup.
Nature:
Corsica is often called the “Island of Beauty,” and rightly so. Explore the nearby Scandola Nature Reserve or take a hike in the inland mountains.
Unique Features:
What sets Ajaccio apart is its blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. From the red granite cliffs to the historic city centre, it offers an alluring mix of the familiar and the exotic.
Accommodation:
For lodging, consider the Hotel Les Mouettes, which offers sea views, or the more luxurious Sofitel Golfe d’Ajaccio for a spa experience.
Official Tourist Website:
The best official tourist website for Ajaccio is the Ajaccio Tourist Office website, which provides a comprehensive guide to the city and its surrounding areas.
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.
We had the most amazing time. The crew were so friendly and helpful, the food was great throughout, and the cabins were really comfortable. We both climbed the rigging as the sun was setting over Porto Santo to round off a brilliant last day with the new friends we met. Thanks for the wonderful experience.
Ian & Dayna
I have sailed many times on tall ships, this is by far the best yet.
Richard
Terrific crew and ship and a lovely passage to the Azores. Crew and guests were very good and patient with someone who only spoke English. This is a terrifically well run vessel. Excellent accommodation, well serviced by a professional crew. All very friendly, helpful and willing to give information throughout. Many opportunities to get involved in most aspects of the ships operations. Very many thanks.
Keith
An amazing ship and amazing crew.
David
We had a terrific and adventurous time on board during Sachsen Sail in the Bay of Biscay. Thank you to all Santa Maria Manuela crew members!
Mario
Un voilier merveilleux avec un équipage très sympathique. Merci pour tout.
A splendid ship with a very kind crew. Thank you for everything.
Marie-Francoise
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