Explore Cornwall Under Sail - Westlife April 2004

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Explore Cornwall Under Sail

Based in St Mawes, and predominantly sailing South Cornwall, the Isles Scilly, and their favourite haunts around the Fal, skippers Debbie and Adam Purser have both fallen under the spell of this most westernmost part of Britain. They want sailing guests to be captivated by sailing their beautiful boat "Eve" but they are both equally passionate about the landscapes of sea and shore. Introducing all who sail to the fascinating geology, coast footpaths, abundant wildlife, dramatic and ever changing weather and distinctive maritime culture, the skippers make sure a holiday on "Eve of Mawes" combines the best of both worlds "Adventures Afloat" but equally important - the chance to "Explore Ashore". It must be working as 90% their customers in a recent survey rated the Westcountry scenery (whist on a sailing holiday) as "wonderful".

7 day "Scilly Island Hopping" voyages on "Eve" illustrate the appeal of this holiday ethos in a nutshell: The only way to explore the Isles of Scilly archipelago is by boat. Living aboard Eve is like having your own eco friendly holiday home which sails to a different anchorage each day, allowing those on board to swim off the boat, watch the sunset, or explore islands long after the ferry boats have gone home. A local wildlife expert is employed exclusively for the crew so they can learn more about seabirds, seals, flora and island life.

As Ellen McCarthur recently proved sailing is not exclusive. You don't have to have a boat, live by the sea or wear yellow wellies to get addicted. Classic Sailing have introduced many newcomers (aged 8 - 71) to sailing through their "taste of Sail day breaks. They also have a growing number of friends who regularly escape to "Eve" for a long weekend to recharge their batteries. Debbie also works hard to encourage more women to try sailing on their own, and last years campaign to get "More Women at Sea" led to over 43% of sailing customers being female.

Now with a second sailing vessel "Bluebell" Classic Sailing have great plans to provide day sailing with a difference for holidaymakers and families staying ashore. Falmouth and Helford are designated a Marine Special Area of Conservation and the company is committed to raising public awareness of the wonders of marine wildlife in Cornwall whilst they are on holiday. They are currently restoring an authentic 1924 Falmouth Working Boat "Bluebell" which will remain an active part of the oyster dredging fleet in winter (one of the last commercial fishing fleets dredging under sail). But Bluebell's primary role will be to provide exciting day and half sails from Falmouth and St Mawes this Summer 2001.