V14 - Biscay Crossing

Voyage description

This 4-day mini ocean crossing takes us from historic Brest, south to the Galician city of La Coruna. Whether you're a seasoned sailor, a novice keen to learn the ropes or an intrepid traveler seeking a unique journey, this voyage promises an unforgettable experience.

Every four years Brest harbour welcomes over 2,500 boats from around the world for the Maritime Festival. 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.

Before you board, 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. The fireworks are one of the highlights of the festival.

Our voyage starts at the end of the festival, sailing south across the notorious Bay of Biscay.

Whether you are an experienced sailor or a complete beginner, we invite you to volunteer to help the crew hoist and set the sails. The feeling of helming a 68m sailing ship with the sensation as she responds to the command of the wheel is something to savor forever. There´s nothing our crew like more then to share their knowledge of sailing with our guests, and they will encourage you to get actively involved in sailing the ship.

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.

We finish our voyage in the bustling port city of La Coruña, home to the Tower of Hercules, the only working Roman lighthouse in the world, and its many typically Spanish squares and medieval churches.

Weather:
Expect mild and pleasant weather in La Coruna during July, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 24°C (75°F), but with the notorious Cape Finisterre just to the west where the north Atlantic winds compress, come prepared for some exciting sailing conditions.

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