This Sailing Adventure can be booked via our partner Reederij Oosterschelde
Sailing Adventure: From Den Helder to Setúbal on the Morgenster
Start your adventure on the Morgenster, docked at the historic Willemsoord Naval Yard in Den Helder. If you’re accompanied by friends or family, take advantage of the time before departure to give them a tour of this magnificent vessel. It’s a special moment to share before setting off on your journey. Once everyone is aboard, the captain will call everyone together for a briefing. You’ll hear about the detailed plans for the voyage, important safety procedures, and the rules of life on board. This voyage is designed for seasoned sailors, but even if you’re new to sailing, you’ll quickly feel part of the crew. You’ll be assigned to a watch, where you’ll help with the daily running of the ship, from navigating to hoisting sails.
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Navigating the North Sea and the English Channel
The voyage begins as we cross the North Sea, sailing through the Strait of Dover and into the English Channel. During this leg of the journey, the weather can be unpredictable, and the cold can bite at this time of year. But it’s all part of the adventure—the sea, the wind, and the elements combining to create a true sailor\’s experience. You’ll take turns at the helm, steering the ship, and work with your fellow crew members to hoist and adjust the sails as needed. These waters are some of the busiest in the world, and the view is endlessly fascinating—ships of all sizes and types passing by, a constant reminder of the global traffic that shares the sea with us. When there’s no sail work to be done, there’s plenty to watch and enjoy from your unique vantage point.
Exploring Coastal Towns and Crossing the Bay of Biscay
As we head south, we might stop in a charming Belgian, French, or English coastal town, or perhaps one of the Channel Islands. These stops allow for a brief but rewarding exploration of local cultures and landscapes. Then, we sail on into the infamous Bay of Biscay, a body of water known for its unpredictable conditions. But for the adventurous sailor, this is what makes it exciting. As we leave the continental shelf, the depth beneath the ship increases dramatically, plunging to 5 kilometers—an awe-inspiring reminder of the vastness of the ocean. The exact route we take through the Bay of Biscay will depend on the weather and wind direction, making each journey a truly unique experience.
Sailing Along the Iberian Coast
After crossing the Bay of Biscay, we may stop at a Spanish port, like Vigo, where you’ll have another opportunity to experience life onshore. We’ll then sail along the Portuguese coast, a section of the journey known for its favorable northern winds—ideal conditions for a square-rigged ship like the Morgenster. These steady winds make for smooth, enjoyable sailing, allowing you to fully appreciate the power of the sails and the beauty of the coastline. It’s an exhilarating experience, one that combines the thrill of the open sea with the comfort of favorable conditions.
Final Destination: Setúbal, Portugal
Our journey concludes in the Portuguese city of Setúbal, just an hour’s drive from Lisbon. We expect to arrive on November 17, 2024. After a final night on board, you’ll disembark the next morning, unless you’ve chosen to continue the adventure with us to Tenerife or the Cape Verde Islands. This sailing experience isn’t just for experienced sailors—it’s for anyone who wants to experience the magic of life at sea. Whether you’ve sailed before or are trying it for the first time, you’ll be part of the crew, learning how to sail, navigate, and work as a team.
Life Onboard the Morgenster
Aboard the Morgenster, you’re not just a passenger—you’re a member of the crew. You’ll be assigned to a watch and receive training on everything from steering the ship to navigating the seas. The crew will teach you the ropes, literally, explaining what each line, halyard, and sheet does, and you’ll quickly become part of the daily operations. No prior sailing experience is required—just a willingness to learn and participate. Most of our guests love being hands-on, but we also respect your preferences and any limitations you may have.h constant winds and perfect conditions for a smooth and exciting voyage. This is your chance to disconnect from the busy world and immerse yourself in the adventure of a lifetime.
This Sailing Adventure can be booked via our partner Reederij Oosterschelde