V13 - Le Havre – Falmouth – Brest

Voyage description

Our voyage starts from Le Harve and sails abeam to the prevailing winds across the English Channel / La Manche into Falmouth before returning south to arrive in Brest at the start of one of the worlds greatest maritime festivals.

The two day crossing gives us enough time to learn the ropes of the Santa Maria Manuela, where all volunteers are welcomed to help the crew set sail and helm the wheel. Knot classes are a great way to learn a new skill whilst sharing sailing stories with shipmates, and if the weather allows there's the opportunity to go up the mast or relax on the bowsprit. A drink at sunset on the deck is the perfect way to round off each day.

Before long we sail into Falmouth, the world’s third largest natural deep-water harbour, framed by Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a magnet for walkers and sailors.

The allure of sailing into Falmouth has inspired countless artists, sailors, explorers, musicians and boatbuilders for centuries. From Robin Knox- Johnston, to Ellen Macarthur to Henry Moore, many have sought solace, inspiration, sanctuary and escape among the inlets and creeks of the Fal estuary and the coves and cliffs of the stunning Cornish coastline.

As the most westerly large harbour in Britain, Falmouth played an important role in the era of sail. For around 150 years from 1689, Packet Ships left from Falmouth carrying mails to the growing empire.

Our voyage ends at the Brest Festival, hosted every four years for over 2,500 boats from around the world. Hundreds of thousands of sea-lovers and onlookers gather along the banks of the Penfeld and on the docks to admire the festivals flotilla, with the Santa Maria Manuela at the heart of this extraordinary maritime celebration.

After disembarking take time to revel in the live music shows, street performances, military processions and nautical displays, brows in the boutique shops and sample the many culinary flavors of France in the festival kiosks.

Weather:
June in Falmouth is usually warm, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C (65°F) to 24°C (75°F). A generally pleasant month with longer daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

When preparing for your voyage please bear in mind:

• Your passport must have at least 6 months validity at the time of travel
• The SMM is granted no flexibility for the embarkation and disembarkation times from the customs authorities
• All guests must be between the age of 14 and 80 yrs at the time of travel