Join Tecla for an epic Southern Ocean adventure, from the remote Falkland islands to the world’s most Southerly town via the awe-inspiring wilderness of Antarctica. Encounter diverse wildlife, and immerse yourself in the rich maritime history of the region, visiting significant sites from the age of polar exploration. A truly once in a lifetime trip, and run to the strictest IAATO principles of sustainable, environmental and low-impact Antarctic travel.
Voyage
Vessel
VOYAGE HIGHLIGHTS
Fantastic wildlife spotting including penguins, whales and fur & leopard seals
Bucket list destinations for adventurous explorers:
Drake’s Passage
Elephant Island
Port Lockroy
Paradise Harbour
Exhilarating Southern Ocean sailing under the guidance of the professional crew
Your adventure begins in Port Stanley, the tiny and charming capital of the Falkland Islands. Prepare to be captivated by the King and Rockhopper penguins dotting the coastline!
On stepping aboard Tecla you’ll meet the professional crew and your fellow sailors and get settled into your bunk. After a safety briefing and introductions over dinner on board, enjoy your first night in harbour before preparing to set sail the following morning.
Along the Way
As you sail the the Southern Ocean, you become adjusted to real wilderness and vast open space. South Georgia can end up feeling very BUSY when you arrive, but it’s penguins, seals and seabirds that teem here, not people. As a location for wildlife spotting South Georgia is second to none.
Sail across the legendary Drake Passage, known for its challenging conditions and incredible wildlife sightings. If weather permits, your first landing in Antarctica will be at Elephant Island, steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Starting your daily explorations by dinghy, you’ll land on remote Antarctic shores, guided by Tecla’s experienced crew. Wander through pristine white landscapes and visit some of the world’s largest penguin colonies. Between landings, the Tecla navigates through icy waters, passing spectacular icebergs and offering opportunities to spot whales such as Humpbacks and Fin Whales.
Visiting Antarctica is a dream come true, and to ensure that this pristine environment remains untouched for future generations, Tecla have become members of IAATO. This organization is dedicated to promoting safe and environmentally responsible travel to Antarctica. By following IAATO’s strict guidelines, Tecla is committed to preserving the unique ecosystem of the Antarctic while allowing you to experience its awe-inspiring beauty in a sustainable way. Your journey aboard is not just an adventure; it’s a pledge to protect this incredible wilderness.
Arriving in Puerto Williams, Chile
Located on an island in the Beagle Channel, Puerto Williams is the world’s most Southerly town, and is known as the staging post for Cape Horn. The town is a busy hub for explorers, fishermen, meteorologists and the Chilean Navy alike, and has a real feel of ‘frontier’ about it.
We would highly recommend taking some time here if possible before your onward travel plans. It’s not often you’ll find yourself somewhere so uniquely remote, in such stunningly beautiful surroundings.
Wind, Waves & Weather
Throughout your voyage, expect a mix of sea and weather conditions typical of the Southern Ocean. Be prepared for the possibility of encountering icebergs and fluctuating temperatures as you navigate through these remote waters. However, the rewards of witnessing the pristine beauty of Antarctica and South Georgia far outweigh the challenges, making this journey an unforgettable experience.
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
Port Stanley, the Falklands
Stanley is the picturesque capital of the Falkland Islands. We would highly recommend renting an all-terrain car and spending a few days exploring the archipelago from here. It gives you the freedom to discover the diverse attractions the Falklands have to offer. From historical war sites to intriguing nautical wrecks, captivating wildlife, stunning rock rivers, and the island’s rich sheep farming heritage, there’s something for everyone.
Puerto Williams, Chile
Puerto Williams, the southernmost town in the world, is a gateway to Cape Horn and the Antarctic. It’s well worth spending time here to really get to grips with the place. Visit the Martin Gusinde Anthropological Museum to explore the stories of the Yaghan people, the original inhabitants of the region. Explore the Naval Base for a glimpse into the town’s military and navigational significance. While nightlife here is limited, the few bars and communal spaces often host lively conversations among adventurers, sailors, and researchers.
Kit List
Not all sailing areas require the same gear, the same foul weather equipment or even the same shorts. But some items you must always bring. In this kit list we hope to give you a small insight in what to bring, but of course, please consider this list might not encumber all that you would wish to take! Very important is that your bag or small suitcase needs to be stored in the room, under your bed, there is limited space – so bring a foldable bag! the following is Tecla's standard included/excluded and kit list. Below this you can find more specific info and kit lists dependant on sailing area.
What's Included (Standard)
Coffee and tea
Blanket, sheets, pillow and covers (for longer voyages there will be clean bed linen)
3-4 crew members guiding the group
1 towel
For longer voyages you can wash clothes once halfway through the voyage
What's not Included (Standard)
Soda and alcoholic drinks
Landing fees and Paid excursions ashore
Transfer to and from the vessel
Visa if needed
You can not wash clothes on board on shorter voyages
What should you always bring
Soap (preferably parabens and plastic free)
Tooth brush & Toothpaste
Comfortable clothing
Socks (at least until halfway through the voyage)
Underwear (at least until halfway through the voyage)
Binoculars (if you like bird watching, we have a pair on board, but it stays in the back close to the navigational area, it does not go on hikes)
Sunscreen
Photocamera (or you can ask other guests for their pictures)
Chargers for electrical equipment – there is 220v with central European plugs and a usb plug in the cabin
Day pack rug sack or small bag for hikes.
Water bottle for hikes
A good mood and an open mind
Passport
Visa if required
Valid Insurance papers
Personal Medicines
Seasickness pills if you need them
Ocean Crossing
When the ocean crossing is not part of the Southern Ocean sailing (so no South Georgia or Antarctica included) the crossings are usually in warm weather. Going from North to South, please be advised that the weather in the Falkland Islands is cool and wet! So also bring at least one set of warm clothing.
Waterproof jacket (can be sailing gear, but hiking gear, light weight jackets are very nice as well)
Waterproof pants
T shirts (at least 5)
Shorts (at least 2)
Long pants
Light / cool footwear with grip on deck (can be flipflops or sandles)
Waterproof boots / footwear
Swimming outfit
Sunhat
Merino wool thermal wear (can be light weight)
Water bottle (yes it said so in what always to bring, but during warm days, this is really a must!)
Greenland & Iceland
If there are any items you usually take on your hikes, and they are easy to take in your luggage, don’t forget to bring them!
Hiking waterproof pant
Hiking waterproof jacket
Wool sweater
A lightweight down jacket can be very nice
Warm head wear
Buff or neck scarf
Gloves against the cold, not necessarily for sailing
Long pants
T Shirt
Sweater
Merino Wool full under layer (at least 1 full set, depending on length voyage, 2 sets)
Falkland, South Georgia & Antarctica
On the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Antarctica there are different levels of Bio-Security we will have to comply with. To make it easy on yourself we recommend you bring one set of hiking gear that you would like to use on shore, that is completely cleaned at home. This means Velcro is cleaned and does not contain any seeds or pollen. Your pockets are empty of any seeds, pollen, sand etc. Your boots are cleaned, no sand or mud on them. This way, getting ready for the first landing becomes a walk in the park. For more information on Bio Security, please contact us.
These surroundings can be very cold, especially on longer watches. And also because these areas are protected, we ask you to take at least two sets of wet weather gear, with one of them at least completely clean. If you have sailing gear, perfect, but also bring some light weight, waterproof hiking gear. We recommend goretex pro of any brand. This is tough and durable. Often easy to clean and light weight.
For the cold
Merino wool 180/200gr thermal underwear (at least 3 sets)
Down jacket (if possible 800/900gr filling is the best)
Down jacket (700gr) or windstopper jacket
Woolen sweater
Warm head wear
Buff or neck scarf
Gloves against the cold, not necessarily for sailing (two pairs)
For the Rain
Waterproof footwear
Waterproof hiking footwear
Waterproof hiking jacket
Waterproof hiking pants
In the cold, making layers is important. If there is no rain, most 800gr down jackets with a merino wool layer underneath are warm enough. If it rains, most jackets do not fit over the down jacket. Therefore we recommend layer one merino wool, layer two a woollen sweater, layer three a thinner down jacket or wind stopper and layer four your water proof jacket.
Of course we understand that not everybody has these items in their closet. Please contact us if you are unsure what to pack.
North West Passage or Taste of the North West Passage
Summer in the Northern Territories of Canada can be cold, but they can be beautiful and warm as well. During the 2019 voyage we have had days of 2 degrees and days of 19 degrees. We had nights of 0 degrees, but also nights with a warm land breeze, where a woollen sweater and merino under layer were enough.
Hiking waterproof pants
Hiking waterproof jacket
Wool sweater
Warm head wear
Buff or neck scarf
Gloves against the cold, not necessarily for sailing
Long pants
T Shirt
Sweater
Merino Wool full under layer (at least 3 full sets)
Down jacket (if possible 800/900gr filling is the best)
This trip fulfilled my desire for adventure sailing as we transited the north coast of Iceland, along the Arctic Circle. Even though it was rough, the boat and crew performed admirably.
Bruce
An enjoyable week in less than ideal weather conditions. The crew were competent and friendly, the catering excellent. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend a voyage on Tecla.
Jonathan
A great mix of sailing in Scottish waters, some super hikes and an opportunity to see some of the immensely important historical sites in the Orkneys and Sheltands.
Mooring alongside in the Fair Isles was a great privilege.
The ocean passage to the Faroes was quiet but as a result we were blessed with clear skies whilst slinking in and out of the islands and some of the best coastal views one could hope to see anywhere.
The ocean passage to Iceland was a bit of a bimble until we were 60 miles off and then it got exciting. Thanks to a great skipper and permanent crew we snuggled into a fjord whilst the cruise ship ran aground in Reykjavik harbour. A good holiday, an adventure and fun.
K
Any initial doubts as to the number and experience of the crew were very quickly dispelled and we were impressed with the knowledge and the handling skills of the skipper and the 2 mates. Every opportunity was taken to enhance our enjoyment on both voyages and at every stage we were made to feel relaxed and under no obligation to crew the ship under sometimes testing (but enjoyable) conditions. As an observation, we must congratulate the skipper for her culinary skills under difficult conditions..........the food was perfect for the voyage.
Geoff
A delight. A competent and engaging professional crew, an interesting voyage with some challenges and some great rewards. Good companions to make the log spin around.
Mike
Brilliant. I would do it again tomorrow. And good value too. The food was excellent. I loved the spicy meatballs and my wife loved the fresh langoustines.
Steve
Most enjoyable classic sailing with great food, a true sense of teamwork, great guidance and a good sense of humour. Can't get any better.
Thomas
Vessel Gallery
Globe trotting Tall Ship Tecla in action and images. This historic gaff ketch is our Polar Specialist, with expeditions to Antarctica and through the Northwest Passage, but she also has fantastic voyages in sunnier climes. 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.
