Embark | Disembark | Vessel | Duration | Voyage No |
---|---|---|---|---|
Sun 30-06-2024, 16:00Lorient, France | Fri 05-07-2024, 10:00Le Havre, France | Santa Maria Manuela | 5 Nights | SM300624 V12 |
Set sail on an extraordinary adventure with Santa Maria Manuela, leaving from the vibrant Lorient to the culturally abundant Le Havre. This trip isn’t just about sailing; it’s an exploration of serene islands like Les Glenan, packed with thrilling activities and moments of tranquility. Imagine yourself kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying a drink at sunset on deck. It’s more than a sailing trip; it’s a deep dive into the rich cultural landscape of France’s stunning coastlines. There’s truly something for every traveller on this journey.
Vessel type / Rig | Gaff Schooner |
Guest Berths | 50 |
Beam | 33ft |
Draft | 18ft |
Deck Length | 173ft |
Overall Length | 225ft |
Tonnage | 992 tons |
Year Built | 1937 |
As the vibrant Port Festival in Lorient concludes, Santa Maria Manuela departs from this bustling fishing centre, joining a fleet of majestic tall ships. The initial day aboard offers a splendid opportunity to familiarise with the ship and forge connections with fellow voyagers.
Sailing towards the mesmerising Les Glenan archipelago, guests encounter a surreal sight. This cluster of seven islands encircles an inland sea, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sands, reminiscent of far more tropical locales. Weather permitting, guests can indulge in a leisurely day, exploring the islands’ sandy dunes or swimming in the refreshing waters. There’s the chance to engage in more dynamic activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. As we sail north, bypassing the Channel Islands and the vigorous tidal races, the journey unfolds with scenic beauty and thrilling experiences.
Upon reaching Le Havre, guests are greeted by a city steeped in artistic heritage, famously recognised as the cradle of ‘Impressionism’. This bustling port offers an array of attractions for those wishing to extend their stay. Visiting the MuMa (Musée d’art moderne André Malraux), home to France’s second-largest collection of impressionist paintings, is highly recommended. For a serene experience, a stroll along the beach, gazing at the same landscapes that inspired Monet, can be profoundly enriching.
Embarking on this journey during the summer months, guests can expect mild to moderate sea conditions, with the North Atlantic’s characteristic breezes. The weather typically remains pleasant, offering ideal conditions for both sailing and on-deck relaxation. However, sailing enthusiasts must be prepared for the occasional brisk wind, adding an element of exhilaration to the experience.
On a sailing voyage we never use the word itinerary, as skippers will always be aiming for the best and safest sailing routes for the forecast. They are as keen as you to include some of the highlights described above, but when it comes to sailing, you have to go with Mother Nature, not fight her. The description provided is based on what we think might be possible, based on past trips, or prior experience, but nothing is guaranteed on a sailing voyage. As such, the scheduled joining ports, routes, activities and/or destinations may be altered. Due to the complexities of weather systems, this may be at very short notice.
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.
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.
Le Havre is located in Normandy and sits on the right hand bank of the Seine as it opens out into the English Channel. It was founded by King Francis I in 1517, and is now the second largest port in France, with the largest container port. When the Tall Ships come in, it’ll be the last leg of the race and also Le Havre’s 500th anniversary.
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
Channel Islands & Brittany Adventure - PM070924
Embark
Sat 07-09-2024
Brixham, UK
Disembark
Fri 13-09-2024
Brixham, UK
From
£1045.00
3 charming ports: Le Havre, Falmouth & Brest! - SM060724 V13
Embark
Sat 06-07-2024
Le Havre, France
Disembark
Thu 11-07-2024
Brest
From
€750
Recently Viewed Voyages
Explore the sandy Les Glenan Archipelago - SM300624 V12
Embark
Sun 30-06-2024
Lorient, France
Disembark
Fri 05-07-2024
Le Havre, France
From
€750