When you arrive on the island of Sal, you travel to the village of Palmeira. The ‘Oosterschelde’ lies at anchor in the harbour. You will be brought on board by tender. The crew welcomes you, and you meet your fellow travellers. Before departure, you will receive an introduction to life on board, safety procedures, and an explanation of sailing a three-masted vessel. On board the ‘Oosterschelde’, you are part of the crew.

We leave Cape Verde and set a northwesterly course, sailing close-hauled. During the first days, we remain within the trade wind belt, with steady and often strong northeasterly winds. On deck, there is active participation: sails are set and trimmed, and we take turns at the helm. Under the guidance of the crew, you will learn navigation, course plotting, and weather interpretation.

The watch system creates a steady rhythm on board. During the day, activity alternates with rest, while night watches have a unique atmosphere. With the compass light ahead and stars above, you steer the ship through the ocean, surrounded by the sounds of wind and water along the hull.

As we sail further north, the weather changes. Winds shift, temperatures drop, and conditions become more variable. This requires attention on deck, with frequent sail adjustments. The ship responds immediately to every change, and you experience this firsthand.

Despite the distance from land, there is abundant life around us: seabirds, dolphins, flying fish, and possibly whales as we approach the Azores. Gradually, land appears, and we enter the harbour of Horta, a renowned meeting place for sailors from around the world.

We would like the ‘Oosterschelde’ to be accessible to everyone, but making a sea voyage aboard a sailing ship can be challenging and you must be sufficiently fit and healthy to do so. We divide all trips into three levels with an icon of one, two or three waves. Not every level is suitable for everyone. The shipping company may contact you to discuss your participation. In an extreme case, the shipping company may advise against going on a particular trip. Are you unsure if a particular trip is suitable for you? Then contact our shipping office to discuss it.

Level 1

Level 1 voyages are suitable for anyone with good mobility and health. Often these voyages are in sheltered areas or close to the coast. However, it is still a journey on a sailing ship, at sea and so you must weigh up for yourself whether you can cope.

Level 2

Level 2 voyages are often heavier or further from home. You must be able to cope well under sometimes challenging conditions, but in case of need, the ship can be in a port within 24 – 48 hours. There is no age limit, but you may be asked to provide additional proof of fitness or health.

Level 3

Level 3 voyages are only for the experienced and fit sea traveler. The weather can be challenging and there are no ports to call at, along the way. We are out of helicopter range and medical care  from shore is not available. Level 3 voyages are suitable for participants up to the age of 73. If you are 73 years of age or above, you are very welcome to join our Level 1 or Level 2 voyages. The shipping company may contact you to request additional proof of fitness or health.