Bessie Ellen - Explore the French Coast

photo:Bessie Ellen passing Eve by Debbie

This 6 day summer voyage ends in Falmouth so you can enjoy the contrast between a cross channel passage and some celtic coastal hopping in Brittany. 

Experienced Sailors or Adventurous Beginners

Sailing cross channel or the Channel Islands involves an offshore passage of over 100 miles, which usually takes 15-20hours sailing. If the winds are good the passage could well be faster.

This is an ideal voyage if you want to gain over 200 sea miles or 60 mile qualifying passages towards RYA Coastal Skipper or Yachtmaster.

Offshore Sailing on a Wooden Tall Ship

Our voyage starts with exploring the rugged French coastline, and then the mood changes as you head accross the channel.There is something special about getting into the rhythm of standing a watch and resting in your bunk as the sea gurgles past the hull, but it can be very tiring if you have never sailed before. Much of the passage is out of sight of land, we will be sailing through the night, and if we encounter unexpected rough weather it can take many hours before we reach a sheltered harbour. A determined beginner with a sense of adventure should quickly find their sea legs.

Granite rose coast & rivers deep inland 

We may head for the Granite Rose coast of France, sailing deep up a French River like Lezardrieux, Tregieur or into the tiny harbour of Ploumanach. Both the Channel Islands and Brittany are renowned for their fresh seafood, so no doubt we will be sampling a local restaurant as a reward for our channel crossing. If we sail first to North Brittany Bessie Ellen may re visit favourites like the granite archipelago Isles de Brehat, or the National Bird Reserve of Les Sept Isles.

Fast Tides, Lighthouses & Interesting Pilotage

The Channel Islands are rugged around the edges, with beautiful beaches, and leafy and unspoilt inland. The climate is typically warmer than the UK with long sunshine hours. The itinerary is left totally flexible to allow for the weather, but wherever you stop you will be enchanted by the shabby chique, cafe life of this delightful region of France.