Experience a 3 night coastal voyage from the Isle of Wight to Plymouth, sailing aboard historic wooden vessels. Everyone on board gets hands-on with life at sea, from steering and navigation to raising sails, rowing ashore, cooking, and keeping the boat shipshape. No sailing experience is needed, and the professional crew will guide you every step of the way.
On this voyage, the whole crew is involved in running the boat. From taking the helm to helping with navigation, hoisting sails, and assisting with meals and cleaning, there’s always something to do. Evenings offer time to relax on deck, enjoy meals, and share stories with fellow sailors.
Arrival in Plymouth depends on the weather and sea conditions, so flexible travel plans are advised. The voyage is ideal for building sea miles and gaining confidence on a traditionally rigged schooner or gaff yawl, all while enjoying the scenery and company on board.
Day 1 – Embark Cowes, welcome and safety briefing, afternoon sail, evening meal, social time on deck.
Day 2 – Morning sail, navigation practice, sail handling, afternoon stop at a coastal harbour, evening review, meals on board.
Day 3 – Early morning sail, hands-on training, afternoon sailing towards Plymouth, evening meal, final review and social time.
Day 4 – Morning sail into Plymouth, secure vessel, clean down, debrief, disembark.
The voyage departs Cowes, Isle of Wight, and sails West along the south coast. Routes are chosen based on weather and tidal conditions, providing safe and enjoyable sailing while exploring coastal scenery, small harbours, and secluded coves.
The route gives participants the chance to experience the changing conditions of the sea while building practical sailing skills and confidence in navigation and boat handling.
Accommodation is provided on board in shared bunks or cabins, with all meals included. Crew life encourages teamwork and independence as everyone participates in cooking, cleaning, and watch duties.
Even during downtime, participants can relax on deck, enjoy the views, or take part in social activities. Life aboard combines hands-on learning with comfortable living in a supportive environment.
Johanna Lucretia – A two-masted topsail schooner and the largest UK-flagged sail training vessel. Her spacious decks make group sailing accessible, with plenty of rope work, sail handling, and helming opportunities. Below deck, the schooner provides comfortable cabins and communal spaces for meals and socialising. Historically, she has competed in Tall Ships races and has appeared in films and TV, adding character and a sense of tradition to every voyage.
Moosk – A classic 1906 gaff yawl, known for its seaworthiness, manoeuvrability, and elegant design. Its smaller size allows for more intimate hands-on experiences with traditional rigging, navigation, and watch duties. Moosk has been restored with oak frames and teak planking, providing a historic yet safe and practical environment for adults to develop sailing skills.
No previous sailing experience is needed, but participants should be prepared to actively participate in running the vessel and managing life on board.
Reasonable fitness and a willingness to work collaboratively are required. Professional crew provide coaching at every stage, ensuring all participants gain practical seamanship experience.
These adult voyages provide a rare opportunity to sail on historic vessels while actively participating in all aspects of seamanship. The experience develops confidence, navigation skills, and practical sailing abilities.
With experienced crew, historic ships, and coastal routes along the south coast, the voyage offers a memorable hands-on experience, suitable for beginners and those looking to build sea miles and gain life skills at sea.
The voyage is open to adults of all ages who are interested in hands-on sailing experience. No prior experience is required, as professional crew provide guidance for all tasks on board.
Whether you are completely new to sailing or have some previous experience, this voyage offers a safe and supportive environment to learn practical seamanship while enjoying life at sea.
No previous experience is necessary. Instructors guide participants through every aspect of sailing, from steering and hoisting sails to navigation and anchoring.
The voyage is designed so that everyone can actively participate regardless of prior knowledge. By the end of the trip, participants will have gained confidence and practical sailing skills.
Participants are involved in all aspects of running the vessel, including helming, navigation, sail handling, cooking, cleaning, and rowing ashore.
Evenings allow time to relax on deck, enjoy meals, and socialise with fellow participants. Each day combines active learning with opportunities to appreciate the surrounding coastal scenery.
The route sails from Cowes on the Isle of Wight to Plymouth, following the south coast. The exact course is chosen depending on weather and tidal conditions to ensure safety.
Along the way, participants may visit secluded coves and harbours.
Accommodation is provided in shared bunks or cabins, with communal spaces for meals and socialising. Crew members share responsibilities for cooking, cleaning, and watch duties.
The vessel environment encourages teamwork, independence, and problem-solving while offering a comfortable and historic setting. Even during downtime, participants can relax on deck, take in the views, or enjoy a peaceful moment at sea.
All voyages are supervised by experienced and qualified sailing instructors. Lifejackets, waterproofs, and all safety equipment are provided for every participant.
Emergency procedures are explained during the safety briefing, and staff closely monitor all activities, whether on deck, navigating, or exploring ashore, to ensure participant safety at all times.
Yes, for overnight voyages, all meals and accommodation on board are included. Meals are prepared collectively by the crew under supervision, offering a communal and interactive experience.
The vessels are equipped with comfortable bunks and cabins, making overnight stays both practical and enjoyable, while encouraging participants to contribute to daily life on board.
About the centre
Plymouth Yacht Haven, Shaw Way, Mount Batten, Plymouth, PL9 9XH
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
Operated by The Island Trust, a partner of adventuro.
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