| Embark | Disembark | Vessel | Duration | Voyage No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wed 28-02-2024, 16:00Pointe a Pitre, Guadeloupe | Mon 08-04-2024, 13:00Southampton, UK | Tenacious | 40 Nights | TNS649 |
Sailing from Guadeloupe to Southampton aboard the Tall Ship Tenacious, with stops in Bermuda and the Azores, is a voyage through time, culture, and natural wonder. Whether engaging in traditional sailing activities, exploring the vibrant cultures of each port, or simply enjoying the serenity of life at sea, this journey offers a diverse and enriching experience.
41 days at sea!
No experience required
All abilities welcome
Good chance to see a variety of sea life
| Vessel type / Rig | Barque |
| Guest Berths | 38-40 |
| Beam | 10.6m |
| Draft | 4.58m |
| Deck Length | 54m |
| Overall Length | 65m |
| Tonnage | 586 |
| Year Built | 2000 – Carvel hull made of laminated wood. |
This trip is unlike any other trip in Tenacious’s 2024 season
Embarking on a journey from the tropical charm of Guadeloupe to the historic maritime hub of Southampton, with stops in Bermuda and the Azores, aboard Tenacious is an odyssey that melds the diverse cultures and landscapes of the Atlantic. This voyage offers an unprecedented opportunity to experience the allure of tall ship sailing through varied climates, cultures, and waters.
After 41 days onboard, you will truly become one with the ship, her routine, and her ways. You will probably get to experience her in all kinds of weather, from calm sail-flopping moments, to exhilarating speeds where you’re not sure if you’ve been soaked by the water rushing up through the gunnels, or flying over her side!.
It isn’t for the faint-hearted, but even if you have never sailed before it will be unforgettable. And it will be Amazing! A trans-Atlantic crossing (also known as a transat) is a real bucket-list experience, for sailors and non-sailors alike. You will be recreating the historic journeys of famous explorers and the trade routes that first connected the continents. Tenacious’ Captains will try to complete as much of the passage under sail, so be prepared to learn your sheets from your clews, and your buntlines from your bowsprit. You’ll be doing it all!
Square rigged vessels were built exactly for this kind of voyage, so set sail with us to enjoy amazing sailing, stunning sunsets (and maybe the Green Flash!), the possibility of whale and dolphin encounters, and the experience of being the only vessel in sight: surrounded by the open ocean.
Leaving behind the Creole rhythms and lush landscapes of Guadeloupe, you’ll set sail for the fabled island of Bermuda. Your passage through the Caribbean and into the North Atlantic will expose you to a rich array of marine life and the ever-changing beauty of the open sea. Bermuda awaits with its pastel-coloured homes, pink sandy beaches and it’s rich maritime history. Although we cannot specify the exact dates of her visit, this voyage will call into the port of Hamilton, to allow you short time to explore the island. Take the time to visit the island’s historic forts, swim in the island’s turquoise water, or explore the pink sandy beaches: Bermuda is an idyllic place to discover. This will be your time, and you can spend it how you like!
Departing Bermuda, the journey continues to the enchanting Azores, an archipelago of volcanic islands in the midst of the Atlantic. Known for their dramatic landscapes, geothermal springs, and unique heritage, the Azores are a haven for nature enthusiasts. Our Captains like to explore places less-frequented by the main tourist trade, giving you a chance to see the islands’ dramatic landscapes and the abundance of marine life in these rich waters. Expect to either anchor in small bays or visit some of the smaller ports, but where these will only be decided by the Captain once the voyage is underway!
Finally, you’ll make your way to Southampton, a journey that will take you through temperate waters and into the heart of one of England’s most celebrated port cities. Along the way, the hands-on sailing experience and the camaraderie aboard Tenacious, a ship designed for inclusivity, add depth to the voyage, making the journey itself a central part of the adventure.
On Board Tenacious we operate a buddy system, which pairs able bodied and physically disabled people together. Everyone is there to help one another and share the experience, so the buddy system works both ways! You’ll get the chance to share skills and life experiences and, as many of our crew have found, make friendships that can last a lifetime.
The safety of everyone is top priority and so every activity is conducted at a pace comfortable for all. The forces of nature show no compromise and Tenacious is still a powerful square rigger so with main course, upper and lower topsails traditionally rigged so there is still considerable challenge in every voyage. Perhaps going aloft (climbing the rigging is optional) will be the biggest adrenalin buzz or simply the challenge and rewards of being part of a very special floating community.
TENACIOUS has many facilities to enable physically disabled crew to work alongside their able-bodied shipmates, without taking away the element of challenge.
The bowsprit has a walkway so everyone can enjoy that spell binding moment when the dolphins come to play in the bow wave, or you just want to get that classic shot of a square rigger under full sail.
The ship has large ships boats with metal floors so we can get everybody ashore for a beach barbeque or to explore more remote locations where the ship can only anchor. In bigger ports the ships gangways can cope with most waterfronts, but sometimes wheelchair forays ashore require a bit of teamwork.
Specific built-in features include:
• Wide, flat decks with lifts between them.
• Fully adjustable helmsman’s seat, which is fitted with a seat belt.
• For visually impaired voyage crew:
• An audio compass
• A guidance track around most of the upper deck to keep you central
• Arrows on most handrails pointing to the bow
• Tactile strips at the tops of companionways (stairs) and bright coloured edging
• Bright track radar screen.
• For deaf and hearing impaired voyage crew:
• Berths are fitted with vibrator pads connected to the alarm bells and alarm lights circuit.
• Induction loops.
Below decks there are bunks in the fo’c’sle for the majority of the crew, and eight cabins amidships for wheelchair users and their buddies. Bathrooms on board have specifically designed toilets and showers for those with more severe disabilities.
Accommodation below has heating and air conditioning. There are hot showers, points for electric shavers, toothbrushes and hair driers.
Bar on Board
Tenacious is a very sociable ship and the bar is often a focal point for events in port. At sea you can buy alcoholic drinks if you are not on watch or about to go and handle sails or climb the rigging.
There is also a large mess room for meals or where you can write a diary or perhaps enjoy a board game.
Tenacious is well fitted with a messroom, fully equipped galley, workshop, library plus a well-stocked bar.
On a sailing voyage we never use the word itinerary, as skippers will always be aiming for the best sailing and shore landings for the forecast and most idyllic or sheltered anchors and ports. 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 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.
We cater for a wide range of ages and physical abilities and how much you are expected/encouraged 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.
How to Get There
From the UK and Europe: Direct flights from London and major European cities like Paris are your best bet. Once at Pointe-à-Pitre International Airport, taxis and car hire services are readily available.
From North America: Direct and connecting flights are available from major U.S. and Canadian cities. You could also opt for a Caribbean cruise that stops in Guadeloupe.
From Australia: There are no direct flights, but you can easily connect through major airports like London, Paris, or New York. It’s a long journey but worth the trek.
What to Do in Pointe-à-Pitre
History: The Memorial ACTe museum is a standout, exploring the history of slavery and its impact. Also, the old part of the city, with its colonial architecture, gives you a feel of its historical background.
Culture: Local markets like the Spice Market are a sensory experience that showcases the island’s rich culture. Music festivals and local dances like the Gwo-Ka are worth checking out as well.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor: Guadeloupe’s coastline is quite a treat for any sailor. There are plenty of harbours, marinas, and sailing tours you can join. Bas-du-Fort Marina is a hub for sailors, fully equipped with all necessities.
Entertainment: The city comes alive at night with a variety of bars and clubs playing everything from jazz to local Caribbean tunes. Not into the bar scene? There are movie theatres and art galleries.
Eating Out: The food here is a blend of French and Creole cuisine. Don’t miss out on tasting local dishes like Bokit and Accras de Morue. Fresh seafood is an obvious choice, given the location.
Nature: Guadeloupe is not just about the beaches. It’s got splendid rainforests where you can hike or zipline. The Pointe des Chateaux is where you’ll see the Atlantic meet the Caribbean Sea, a sight you don’t want to miss.
Unique Features: What sets Pointe-à-Pitre apart is its mix of French and Caribbean culture, which you’ll see everywhere—from the language to the food. The scenic mix of rainforests and beaches also makes it unique.
Honestly, whether you’re looking to sail or just soak in some local culture, Pointe-à-Pitre is a must-visit. It offers a bit of everything, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a reason not to fall in love with this place.
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.
There are a number of locations in Southampton where a tall ship may dock, it depends largely on where they can find space for a 60m sailing ship. The ships operators will inform crew of the exact location shortly before your voyage.
Tenacious or Lord Nelson are often allocated dock gate 10 or 4 (10 is near the cruise ship departures near the station. Dock gate 4 is near Ocean Village end of the docks). Dock gate 10 is within walking distance from Southampton Train station if you are travelling with a rucksack or light load, but the walk within the dock complex can be 10-15 mins so you may perfer a taxi.
Dock gate 10 is in the Western Docks and our ships often use berth 104 (known as the fruit shed) which is between the City Cruises and Mayflower Cruise terminal Aerial map of dock gate 10
Dock gate 4 is just off Town Quay in the Eastern Docks about half a mile to East, and gives access to QE2 Cruise Ternimal.
Travel to and from the start and end port
Alcoholic Beverages
Towels - You will need to bring your own towels (including one for swimming if you plan to swim)
Please keep personal gear to a minimum as there is very limited stowage space.
Clothing - What to wear
It can be noticeably cooler at sea than on land, especially at night. So come prepared. Also, please bring enough clothing for the duration of the voyage as we are not able to do personal washing for you, except on ocean passage voyages.
Shoes - Soft soled shoes – deck shoes or trainers. In warm weather, sandals are fine, but not flip-flops.
Gloves - You will be handling ropes so sailing or other non-slip gloves will be useful.
UK AND EUROPE SUMMER VOYAGES/ CANARIES
Fleece/warm sweater, sweat shirts, warm hat
Jeans/Trousers (+a pair for mess duty)
Shorts, T Shirts
Shower proof jacket/sailing jacket
Sun Hat, Sun Screen
Swimming costume
You may want to bring some warmer clothes in early/late season
CARIBBEAN VOYAGES
Thin fleece/light sweater
Shorts, T Shirts, Tops
Sun hat
Thin trousers and long sleeve shirts/blouses (in case of sunburn)
Long trousers plus closed front shoes for mess duty
Swimming costume
High factor sun screen, mosquito repellent
Thin shower proof jacket
On voyages from the Canary Islands to the Caribbean, you may require a few
items of warmer clothing at the start.
PASSAGE VOYAGES (e.g.UK-CANARIES, CANARIES-UK, BERMUDA-UK)
These voyages are in the spring and autumn so the weather can be cold.
Fleece/warm sweaters
Sweatshirts/light sweaters
Jeans, Trousers (you will need long trousers for mess duty)
Warm hat, scarf, gloves
Long Johns, vests, T shirts
Socks
Warm shower proof jacket/sailing jacket
Remember that several thinner layers are warmer than one thick one!
PLEASE NOTE
Flip-flops are not considered suitable footwear on board ship, though sandals may be appropriate in hot weather.
Paperwork
• Passport (Even voyages with UK departure and arrival ports usually call into at least one foreign port during a voyage)
• Joining Instructions from Tenacious Ship's Office (please leave a copy with your next of kin)
•Insurance Policy
•Your return air ticket if you are joining or leaving the ship outside the UK. (Antigua will not allow you into the country without an air ticket out or proof of your means of departure. Your joining instructions are your proof.)
•Tall Ship Guide and Logbook
• You must bring enough to last the duration of your voyage and your journey. If you are flying to join the ship we suggest you pack your medicines in your hand baggage – but please check current airport security regulations.
• Earplugs/Eye mask, If you think your sleep might be disturbed by the noise of the generator engine or lights.
• Spectacles/ Sunglasses with a cord to keep them safe.
Toiletries
• Enough for the whole voyage.
• High factor sun cream
• Mosquito repellent.
There are 240v UK sockets for razors and hairdryers
Money
• Sterling – to use in the bar for drinks, crisps, chocolate and to buy souvenirs in the shop (including JST clothing etc.)
• UK Voyages usually call into a European port so you will need Euros
•Canary Island Voyages – Euros
•Caribbean Voyages – US$, East Caribbean $ and Euros (many of the
Caribbean Islands are French)
•For countries outside the EU – local currency
•On leaving the Caribbean you may be charged $50EC departure tax
at the airport.
•On board we only accept Visa and Mastercard Credit Cards although
we would prefer cheques (sterling only)
•We DO NOT accept: debit cards, Solo or Maestro on board
DO NOT BRING
• Valuables – we do not have any lockable spaces on board.
• Suitcases or rigid bags – your personal possessions must be brought in soft bags for ease of stowing.
The ship is exceptionally well appointed for it's role in enabling people of all ability levels to experience sailing. The permanent and the volunteer crew were the most capable and thoughtful people I've met afloat in 57+ years sailing. I won't hesitate to recommend the JST to my sailing and non-sailing friends. For me it was the experience of a lifetime.
Gordon July 2023A bucket list ambition to sail on a square Rigger was met. No problem with me being 72 and some mobility issues.
JohnWhat was the best bit? Experiencing life on a tall ship and what it must have been like for sailors In the past.
R. Waters
The best bit was setting the sails. The voyage had a good mix of sailing and ashore. I sailed because it was part of my Bucket List. The Captain and crew, the food, accommodation and safety briefing were all excellent.
Kenneth C
5 stars - I found a ship (Tenacious) on your site that was sailing from Auckland to the Falklands. I jumped at the chance and now can say with a bit of pride that I have sailed around Cape Horn on a square rigger. WOW and THANKS for your site." Classic Sailing Facebook.
Mike N
I was on board the Tenacious with Mates4Mates when it sailed from Brisbane to Sydney. After getting over some seasickness, I had the time of my life. From climbing to the top of the main mast, helping to brace the yards and set the sails, helping stow away the sails, and helping out in the kitchen. It was a mind blowing experience that I would recommend to anyone and everyone.
William H
Made me think about my life in a hole new light . I came out of hospital after a double fracture to the skull & a bleed on brain , feeling sorry myself when I was helped other people on the ship , people in wheelchairs & other disabilities I give myself a kick up the arse an thought wake up Vinnie you haven't such a bad injury have you? Thank you JST Clan
Vinnie S J
I Recently returned to Florida from a three week voyage on Tenacious, sailing from Panama to Costa Rica. Exceeded all my expectations by a long shot. Fun, hard work, and great food. Beautiful and educational adventures ashore, along with wonderful friendships with a diverse crew. I feel totally rejuvenated. Try it!"
Ernest R C
I am wheelchair bound and went on the Tenacious on Saturday. It was absolutely fantastic, to learn the ins and outs of a sailing. All the crew were so helpful and accommodating. Would do it again definitely. "
Troy W from Melbourne, Australia
Barque Tenacious is a purpose built wooden tall ship with special facilities for able bodied and disabled crews to sail as equals. She has sailed around the world, spent a year in Australia and rounded Cape Horn. 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.
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