Authentic sailing experience
Feel the power of wind in the sails and take part in a real sea adventure – without commercial gimmicks and crowds of tourists.
Horta – Ullapool · 22 April – 6 May 2027
We cast off from the charismatic harbour of Horta, on the island of Faial, where sailors from all oceans have traced their stories into the paint-layered walls of the waterfront. Before departure, we follow the tradition of generations before us and visit the world-famous Café Peter Sport, sharing a drink beneath the flags, logbook notes and salty signatures that bind seafarers across time. As soon as wind and weather allow, we set our course Northwest and leave the shelter of the islands astern, trading cobbled streets for the open horizon.Between the islands, the ocean comes alive. Spring is a remarkable time in the Azores, as nutrient-rich waters lure an impressive variety of marine giants close to shore. We keep watch for blue whales, fin whales, sei whales, and the ever-majestic sperm whale—all frequent visitors in May. Pods of pilot whales may surface nearby, while acrobatic bottlenose, Risso’s, and common dolphins ride our bow wave or appear unexpectedly at sunrise. Whether calm or wild, this corner of the Atlantic offers a sense of wonder that never fades.Beyond the last green peaks of the archipelago, the sea opens wide. Roughly 1,200 nautical miles stretch ahead to the Outer Hebrides. Days and nights find their rhythm in watches: the quiet of dawn, the silver-blue sweep of midday, the great slow burn of sunset. Some evenings, the sky blazes crimson; others, the stars flood the deck with hard white light, guiding us north. There is time here—time to learn the ropes, trim sail, steer by compass, or simply watch the endless swell rise and fall beneath the bow.As we approach the Hebrides, the rugged outline of Scotland rises from the sea, often veiled in mist or shining in sharp, clear sun. If the winds have been kind and our progress swift, we may explore coastal anchorages along the Scottish shore. Fishing villages, quiet lochs, and weather-shaped cliffs tell stories as old as the tides themselves.Our voyage concludes in Ullapool, a small harbour town sheltered on Loch Broom. After 12 days at sea, we step ashore with salt still in our hair.
22 April 2027 – 6 May 2027
14 nights
Horta, Faial, Azores – Ullapool, Scotland
Tecla
from€3,420/ person
We cast off from the charismatic harbour of Horta, on the island of Faial, where sailors from all oceans have traced their stories into the paint-layered walls of the waterfront. Before departure, we follow the tradition of generations before us and visit the world-famous Café Peter Sport, sharing a drink beneath the flags, logbook notes and salty signatures that bind seafarers across time. As soon as wind and weather allow, we set our course Northwest and leave the shelter of the islands astern, trading cobbled streets for the open horizon.Between the islands, the ocean comes alive. Spring is a remarkable time in the Azores, as nutrient-rich waters lure an impressive variety of marine giants close to shore. We keep watch for blue whales, fin whales, sei whales, and the ever-majestic sperm whale—all frequent visitors in May. Pods of pilot whales may surface nearby, while acrobatic bottlenose, Risso’s, and common dolphins ride our bow wave or appear unexpectedly at sunrise. Whether calm or wild, this corner of the Atlantic offers a sense of wonder that never fades.Beyond the last green peaks of the archipelago, the sea opens wide. Roughly 1,200 nautical miles stretch ahead to the Outer Hebrides. Days and nights find their rhythm in watches: the quiet of dawn, the silver-blue sweep of midday, the great slow burn of sunset. Some evenings, the sky blazes crimson; others, the stars flood the deck with hard white light, guiding us north. There is time here—time to learn the ropes, trim sail, steer by compass, or simply watch the endless swell rise and fall beneath the bow.As we approach the Hebrides, the rugged outline of Scotland rises from the sea, often veiled in mist or shining in sharp, clear sun. If the winds have been kind and our progress swift, we may explore coastal anchorages along the Scottish shore. Fishing villages, quiet lochs, and weather-shaped cliffs tell stories as old as the tides themselves.Our voyage concludes in Ullapool, a small harbour town sheltered on Loch Broom. After 12 days at sea, we step ashore with salt still in our hair.
Route
Azores - Ullapool
Port
Horta, Faial, AzoresUllapool, Scotland
A tall ship cruise is more than a journey - it's an experience that stays with you for a long time
Why choose a Tall Ship cruise?
I want to set sail →Closeness to nature and peace
Immerse yourself in a world where time flows slower, and the only sound is the rush of waves and the crack of lines.
Cruises for everyone
Whether you have sailing experience or are taking your first steps on deck – you'll find a cruise tailored to your expectations and abilities.
Diversity of routes and ships
From short Baltic cruises to multi-week transatlantic voyages. Choose a cruise that fits your rhythm and dreams.
Check the voyage itinerary
22 April
Guests join the ship in the early evening. After settling into your cabin, we gather on deck for introductions and a first briefing. We share the plan for the days ahead, meet ship and crew, and take our first steps into life at sea. The night is spent alongside in Horta.
23 April
In the morning we complete a thorough safety briefing and deck orientation. Weather permitting, we set sail and leave Horta behind. Ahead lie the deep waters between the islands, where whales and dolphins are often seen.
24 April
The rhythm of the ocean takes over as we begin our 1,200-mile passage toward Scotland. We settle into our watch system—days shaped by sail handling, navigation, helm time, good food, and rest. During these days you may: The crew shares knowledge on sail handling and seamanship, while each sunrise brings us farther from the busy world ashore and deeper into the wilderness of the open sea. If winds are favourable and progress swift, there may be an opportunity to explore a harbour or anchorage in the Hebrides before continuing on toward Ullapool.
5 May
We make landfall on the rugged Scottish coast and sail into Ullapool, nestled deep in Loch Broom. After days at sea, green hills and the harbour village offer a gentle return to land. We celebrate a successful crossing with a final dinner aboard. Disembark (10:00): After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to shipmates and crew. You step ashore with new skills, new friendships, and the lasting memory of a North Atlantic passage.
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Places you'll visit
Horta, Faial
Arriving in Horta, you come into one of the Azores’ classic harbours, with a lively marina, low whitewashed town, and the blue outline of Pico rising across the channel on clear days. A short walk from the port brings you to waterfront cafés, painted harbour walls, and broad views of the volcanic island landscape that gives this stop its calm but adventurous Atlantic feel.
Ullapool
Approaching Ullapool by sea, you arrive at a working Highland harbour backed by whitewashed houses and dark, rounded hills, with a wide loch opening toward the Minch. The atmosphere is quiet and rugged, and nearby you can take in the dramatic north-west coast, changing light over the water, and the small-town charm beyond the port.
Frequently asked questions about tall ship cruises and sailing ships
Many leisure and introductory voyages accept guests without sailing experience. Training and expedition voyages may require active participation, minimum ages or a particular level of mobility. Check the operator's conditions for the exact voyage before booking.
Start with the operator's joining instructions because space, dress rules and required equipment vary by ship. Soft luggage, layered clothing, a waterproof outer layer, sun protection and operator-approved non-slip footwear are common recommendations. Ask a medical professional about suitable seasickness precautions if needed.
Choose a cruise on the Cruise Tall Ships site, click the offer and go to the operator's booking page. We do not charge fees – we connect you directly with the cruise organizer.
Choosing a tall ship cruise is more than just booking a vacation; it is an invitation to experience the timeless romance of the sea. Unlike modern, crowded cruise liners, a traditional sailing vessel offers an intimate atmosphere where the sound of the wind in the canvas replaces the hum of engines. Taking part in such a unique voyage allows you to connect with maritime heritage while enjoying the comforts of a modern leisure cruise. Whether it’s the thrill of seeing the horizon from a wooden deck, the spectacular sight of a full press of sail, or the chance to visit hidden coastal gems inaccessible to larger ships, a tall ship voyage offers a sense of freedom that is simply unmatched. It is the perfect choice for travelers seeking authenticity, tranquility, and a truly luxury sailing experience that stays with them long after they return to shore.
Tall ships cruises take place on many waters: Baltic, North Sea, Atlantic, Caribbean, Mediterranean and others. Each offer indicates the region and route.
Safety rules, vessel certification, briefings and required equipment depend on the ship, flag state, route and operator. Review the operator's current safety information and ask them directly about certification or accessibility before booking.
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Swimming requirements vary by operator and voyage. Do not assume that a life jacket removes an operator's swimming or mobility requirement; confirm the conditions for the specific departure.
