V5 - Mediterranean Island Hop: Sardinia, Menorca, Barcelona

Voyage description

Embark on this unforgettable 5-day sailing voyage for a unique blend of sailing adventure, culture and history. Whether you're a sailing enthusiast or an adventurous traveler, the Santa Maria Manuela promises a hands-on sailing experience on an extraordinary journey to three of the Mediterranean's most captivating port cities.

We start our Mediterranean adventure in the charming port town of Port Torres, founded in Roman times by Julius Caesar. Before boarding immerse yourself in the local culture and warm hospitality by savoring traditional Sardinian cuisine at waterfront restaurants. Consider stepping back in time with a visit to the local Roman ruins, thermal baths and the Antonine Palace, or lose yourself in the bustling markets filled with fresh seafood and local Sardinian crafts.

We set sail past the Asinara National Park the second largest island of Sardinia with an odd historical and environmental status. Known as "Isola del Diavolo" ("Devil's Island"), it has been used as a quarantine location, a prison camp during the First World War, and a high security prison, until the establishment of a National Park in 1998.  Now treasured for its ecological importance it is considered the most beautiful beach in Sardinia,  characterized by a long coastline dusted in white quartz pebbles which line the shallow seabed.

As we sail west towards Menorca, 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.

The tranquil bay of Mahon offers some welcome respite from the elements after a few days under sail. The town has a storied maritime history, having been a strategic naval base for the Romans, Moors, British and Spanish throughout its history.

There’s plenty of time to explore Mahon’s picturesque streets, lined with pastel-colored houses, and savor Mediterranean cuisine in charming restaurants along the seafront. The ships kayaks are at hand for those with exercise in mind or in need of a cooling dip after your island adventures.

Again we set sail, this time to the north and towards Catalonia’s beautiful and vibrant city of Barcelona, rich in maritime history with a tradition of shipbuilding dating back to the Roman era. Our arrival is marked by a night of celebration with fellow shipmates during a deck BBQ.

After disembarking, visit the Gothic Quarter, explore the historic heart of Barcelona with its narrow medieval streets, charming squares, relax on the city beaches, soak in the Mediterranean spring sunshine or visit the iconic Sagrada Família, an architectural masterpiece by Antoni Gaudí.

Weather:
Expect pleasant spring weather in May, with temperatures averaging 18-24°C (64-75°F).

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