Step aboard a historic topsail schooner for a 5-night tall ship adventure along the south Devon and Cornwall coast. Everyone on board gets fully involved with running the vessel, from steering and navigation to hoisting sails, helping with meals, cleaning, and rowing ashore. No previous sailing experience is required, and the professional crew provide guidance throughout, ensuring a safe and enjoyable week at sea.
This is a true all-hands-on-deck voyage where the crew shares responsibility for every aspect of life aboard. From helming and sail handling to navigation exercises and watch duties, everyone has a role in keeping the vessel running smoothly. Evenings are a chance to relax on deck, enjoy meals prepared collectively, and socialise with the other crew in the cosy cabins or communal areas.
Sailing along the south Devon and Cornwall coast, the journey will explore hidden coves, tiny islands, and picturesque harbours. There are opportunities for swimming, beach stops, fishing, and even barbecues when weather and tides allow. Weather and sea conditions influence the exact route, giving a realistic sense of life at sea and the experience of handling a traditional tall ship in all conditions.
This voyage is ideal for anyone looking to build sea miles, gain hands-on experience on a historic vessel, and develop practical sailing skills. The combination of teamwork, adventure, and learning ensures everyone returns with increased confidence and understanding of seamanship.
The voyage departs from Plymouth and sails along the scenic south Devon and Cornwall coastline. The route combines stretches of open water with sheltered bays and harbours, allowing for a varied sailing experience.
Along the way, crew can explore quiet coves, relax on beaches, or take part in small-scale activities such as fishing or swimming. Wildlife spotting, including seabirds and occasionally dolphins, adds another layer to the coastal adventure. The voyage provides both practical sailing experience and the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the south-west coast from a unique perspective.
Accommodation is on board Johanna Lucretia, in shared cabins or bunks, with all meals included. Life aboard encourages teamwork, with everyone helping with cooking, cleaning, and watch duties to ensure smooth operation of the vessel.
During downtime, there are comfortable communal areas and deck space to relax, enjoy the views, and socialise with other crew members. The vessel combines hands-on learning with comfortable and historic surroundings, making for an immersive and rewarding sailing experience.
Johanna Lucretia – A two-masted topsail schooner, Johanna Lucretia offers spacious decks perfect for active involvement in steering, rope work, and sail handling. Below deck, the vessel features comfortable cabins and communal areas for meals and relaxation. With a history of Tall Ships races and appearances in film and TV, the vessel adds character and tradition to the sailing adventure.
No prior sailing experience is necessary, but everyone on board should be ready to actively help with sailing, navigation, and daily life aboard the vessel.
Reasonable fitness and a collaborative attitude are important. The experienced crew provide instruction and support at all times, ensuring the voyage is safe and enjoyable for everyone.
This 5-night voyage offers the chance to sail a historic tall ship while fully participating in all aspects of life at sea. It combines teamwork, learning, and the experience of navigating a traditional vessel along a scenic coastline.
With skilled crew, a historic and versatile ship, and routes along south Devon and Cornwall, the voyage delivers an immersive, hands-on sailing adventure. Everyone on board gains practical skills, confidence, and a memorable experience on the water.
The voyage is open to adults aged 20 and over who want to experience life on a traditional tall ship. No prior sailing experience is required, making it perfect for beginners and those looking to build confidence at sea.
Everyone on board will be actively involved in all aspects of running the vessel, from steering and navigation to hoisting sails, cooking, and watchkeeping. The professional crew ensures safety and provides guidance throughout, so all skill levels are welcome.
Absolutely not. This voyage is designed for people of all experience levels, including complete beginners. The professional crew will coach you through every task on board, step by step.
From handling ropes and steering to taking part in navigation exercises, there’s plenty to learn and try. By the end of the voyage, everyone will feel confident handling a traditionally rigged tall ship in real conditions.
Crew are hands-on with every aspect of life at sea. This includes raising and trimming sails, steering, navigation, keeping the vessel clean, helping with meals, and taking turns on watch.
Evenings are spent relaxing on deck, sharing meals and stories, or simply enjoying the sea views. There’s a balance of work and leisure, giving everyone a true taste of life on a working tall ship.
Everyone on board gains practical seamanship skills, including sail handling, helming, chart work, and watchkeeping. These skills are immediately applicable for future sailing trips and help build confidence at sea.
In addition, crew develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities, which are valuable both on the water and back on land. The experience also adds sea miles, a great addition to any sailing logbook.
The voyage departs from Plymouth and explores the south Devon and Cornwall coastline. The route includes both open water sailing and sheltered coves, harbours, and inlets.
Along the way, there are opportunities to explore secluded beaches, swim, fish, or enjoy a barbecue on shore. Wildlife, including seabirds and occasional dolphins, adds to the coastal experience. The exact route depends on weather and sea conditions, offering a realistic taste of life at sea.
Life on board is active and engaging. Crew live in shared cabins or bunks, with communal areas for meals and relaxation. Everyone shares responsibilities for cooking, cleaning, and watch duties, giving a real sense of community.
During downtime, there’s plenty of deck space for relaxing, socialising, and enjoying the scenery. The combination of hands-on work, social interaction, and downtime creates a rewarding and enjoyable experience.
Safety is the highest priority. All crew wear lifejackets when necessary, and waterproofs and safety equipment are provided. Emergency procedures are thoroughly explained during the briefing at the start of the voyage.
The professional crew closely supervise all sailing and shore activities, ensuring that everyone can participate safely in all aspects of life on board. Regular checks and guidance ensure a secure environment at all times.
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.
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Operated by The Island Trust, a partner of adventuro.
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