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European Tall Ship Taster

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2 Berth Ensuite Cabin Per person

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€1400

Embark Disembark Vessel DurationVoyage No
Mon 12-05-2025, 19:00Hamburg, Germany Fri 16-05-2025, 10:00Kiel, Germany Eye of the Wind 4 NightsEYE23/15

This 4 night tall ship taster has relatively flat water in the Kiel Canal so ideal if you want to try a tall ship but are worried about your sea legs. Your voyage starts on the mighty Elbe River with fast tides and a river that slowly turns into a seascape. Let a German owned ship show you her home waters. Explore the Schelswig-Holsteinisches Wattermeer National Park at the entrance to the Elbe and then the ship enters the Kiel Canal. Enjoy the bizzare sensation of crossing Germany on a tall ship. Look down from the rigging over rural life and be amazed at the amount of river traffic on the busiest waterway in Europe.

  • Voyage
  • Vessel

Voyage Highlights

  • Ideal Taster Voyage for Eye of the Wind
  • Hands on Tall ship Sailing
  • Great addition to a bigger exploration of Europe
  • Good transport links to whole area
  • Experience the Kiel Canal with its enormous variety of marine traffic
  • Flat seas and interesting maritime history
  • Busy sailing ground with lots of sail manouevres

Eye of the Wind

Sailing Areas New Zealand
Vessel type / Rig 2 Masted Brig
Guest Berths 12
Beam 7.01m (23ft)
Draft 2.7m (8.9ft)
Overall Length 40.23m (132ft)
Year Built 1911
More about the Vessel

Voyage Description

Why are sailing holidays great value for money? Read the page.

FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

Setting Sail from Hamburg

Step aboard Eye of the Wind in Hamburg, a bustling port city known for its maritime heritage and modern architecture. If you’re able to arrive a little early, don’t miss the iconic Speicherstadt, the largest warehouse district in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Elbphilharmonie, with its stunning modern architecture, offers musical feasts for the ears, but is worth a walk-by even if you don’t have time to catch a concert.

Stepping aboard Eye of the Wind, you’ll get to know your fellow crew over dinner and receive a full safety briefing, plus an up to date itinerary based on the latest weather forecast.

Along the Way

There should be an opportunity to sail from Hamburg to Brunsbuttel ( the start of the Kiel Canal) if the winds co-operate. The Elbe gets wider and wider as you head out towards the North Sea. This is your chance to get involved with setting sail, bracing the yards and learning how to hand or take down square sails and fore and aft sails like jibs or the staysails between masts. You will have time during the Canal transit to think about what you have learned and perhaps have a go at learning how to find the right ropes on the pin rails. The crew are there to ask and learn from.

Whilst the Kiel Canal (in German: Nord-Ostsee-Kanal, literally ‘North-to-Baltic Sea canal’) is not permitted or possible to sail, but this is a fascinating passage regardless. The ship passes under ten high bridges and will experience the endless shipping traffic of container ships, cruise liners, pleasure boats and ferries. Every year, around 40,000 ships pass through the exits of the Kiel Canal. The journey will take you right through Schleswig Holstein, along green banks and under high railway bridges which almost seem to touch the top of the masts.

If you have come to sail and this bit is not your favourite part of the voyage – we recommend you try out the bowsprit netting or climb the mast and go out on the yards. It is a bizarre feeling to see a vessel cross under your feet or be high above cows in a canal-side field. If using the rig as your adventure climbing frame is not your thing then during the canal voyage you will have time to make yourself comfortable on deck or in the comfy lounge and browse through the extensive on-board library.

There will be more chances to sail on the other side of the canal when you reach Kiel Fjord.

Arriving in Kiel

As you make your final approach towards Kiel Fjord, the voyage culminates in a scenic stretch of coast. Kiel itself is a vibrant city with much to offer. If you decide to extend your stay, you might explore the German Maritime Museum or take a leisurely stroll along the Kiel Fjord’s beaches. For the more adventurous, why not explore Kiel’s local cuisine or engage in some water sports? The city is your oyster.

Kiel town

WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER

Considering the voyage is set for May, you can generally expect mild to warm weather, with daytime temperatures ranging between 12 to 20 degrees Celsius. The waters of the Kiel Canal are typically calm, making it a great choice for those who are new to sailing. However, always pack layers and prepare for the unexpected—it’s still the sea, after all!

A NOTE ON VOYAGE DESCRIPTIONS

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. 

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.

Start & End Port

Hamburg, Germany

Kiel, Germany

Kiel

Kiel in Gernay

Worthwhile Journeys
You are 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.

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 Kiel

History
Kiel, a city with a maritime heritage, offers several historical landmarks, most notably the Kiel Canal, the world’s busiest man-made waterway. History buffs can explore the Naval Memorial in nearby Laboe, which honours sailors lost in both world wars. The Kiel Maritime Museum is another highlight, offering an in-depth look at the region’s seafaring history.

Culture
Kiel hosts the world-famous Kiel Week (Kieler Woche), one of the largest sailing events in the world. This week-long celebration brings together sailing enthusiasts and tourists, offering concerts, markets, and cultural exhibitions. Outside of the festival season, the city’s opera house and art museums, such as Kunsthalle Kiel, showcase local culture and artistry.

Sites of Interest to a Sailor
Kiel’s coastline provides magnificent views over the Baltic Sea. Sailors will appreciate the impressive sight of ships passing through the Kiel Canal. The city’s headlands and bays offer stunning vantage points, perfect for those on blue water sailing holidays. The nearby lighthouse at Bülk offers a classic view over the Baltic.

Entertainment
Kiel offers a variety of entertainment options, including live music venues, theatres, and cinemas. For those seeking nightlife, Kiel’s old town offers a selection of bars and clubs, while concerts and performances are regularly held at the Sparkassen-Arena.

Eating Out
The culinary scene in Kiel ranges from traditional Northern German cuisine to international flavours. For a local experience, visit Alte Mühle for hearty German dishes or try Fischbar for fresh seafood. More casual options include the bustling cafés along the waterfront.

Nature
Kiel is surrounded by natural beauty. The beaches along the Kiel Fjord are perfect for walks and picnics, while the nearby Holstein Switzerland Nature Park offers hiking trails and scenic views. For birdwatchers, the region’s coastal wetlands are home to a variety of species.

Unique Features
What makes Kiel stand out is its deep connection to the sea. As a historic port city, its maritime heritage shapes the local atmosphere, offering visitors a unique blend of coastal charm and city life.

Accommodation
For those looking to unwind in comfort, Hotel Kieler Yacht Club offers a luxurious stay with waterfront views. Alternatively, Atlantic Hotel Kiel provides a modern and central location for exploring the city.

Official Tourist Website
Visit Kiel

Weather Kiel
Kiel experiences a temperate maritime climate. Summers are mild, with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sailing. Autumn and spring bring cooler temperatures, typically between 10°C and 15°C, with occasional rain. Winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C, though snow is rare.

Sea and Beyond: A Responsible Mariner’s Guide
Since you’re already investing in a unique sailing adventure, why not extend that spirit to your travel choices? Opt for more sustainable methods of transport where possible like trains, coaches or sharing a car. If you fly, and we realise this may well be the case, you could research some ways to offset the carbon created by the flight.

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.

How to Get There
Recommendation for flights to remote or cold climate destinations: we recommend purchasing flexible flights that offer full refunds. See advice on Flexible flights here.

From the UK, direct flights are available to Hamburg, which is approximately 90 minutes by train or car from Kiel. Ferry services from Harwich or Dover to northern Europe also offer a scenic alternative for those seeking a leisurely journey.

From Europe, Kiel is easily accessible by train via Hamburg or Copenhagen. It is also well-connected by road, with coaches and buses operating from various European cities.

For North American visitors, flights to Hamburg via major hubs such as London or Frankfurt are the most convenient option. From there, a direct train service or car rental will bring you to Kiel.

From Australia, the best option is to fly to a major European city such as Frankfurt or London, then connect to Hamburg. From Hamburg, you can travel to Kiel by train or car.

4o

Kit List

What to pack for a sailing holiday on the Eye of the Wind

Working Language on Board is German and English

Practical Advice for Eye of the Wind   

Practical Advice for Covid 19 and Eye of the Wind

What is Included

  • Sailing Instruction
  • All meals to include 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
  • Any entry visas required

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.

  • Eye of the Wind 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.
  • Eye of the Wind has electric sockets in all the cabins 240 V 
  • Cameras, spare batteries, chargers if you need them
  • 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.
  • The ship provides hand towels but please bring a beach towel
  • snorkel and mask for caribbean if you like snorkelling (travel tip: swimming goggles pack up smaller than a facemask)
  • Bring insect repellant for Caribbean as can get mosquitos ashore in evening (rare at anchor)
  • ear plugs can be handy 

Electricity

All the power to your plug sockets comes from the ship's generator which runs on deisel. The less the generators have to run to top up power, the nicer it is for the guests on board and also greener for the planet. Please don't bring loads of hairdriers, electric devices to charge.

There is no internet on board whilst at sea. 

Review

A fabulous adventure! Words cannot convey the experience.

John, Tortola to Bermuda

Tortola to the Azores! What a great time. Thanks to Captain Pit and the crew. An awesome adventure with awesome people!"

F Coutreau

What a wonderful, lovely, great, awesome trip we've had from Malaga to Lanzarote! I loved and enjoyed every minute.

Thanks again for this wonderful experience. I miss you guys!

Andrea

Now that was a voyage! The EYE crew - all 10 - five women and five men - embody two words:

COMPETENT and KIND

And such a beautiful ship. Thank you beyond measure

Susan

Vessel Gallery

With red sails against a blue sky, Eye of the Wind is a photogenic ship. If you have any new images we would love to see them since Eye of the Wind has only recently returned to our website. 

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