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All passages which are longer than 500nm we call ocean passages and provide the perfect opportunity to gain miles and practice with the sextant. We are happy to teach the wonders of navigating by the stars (and also how the GPS works). Plenty of time is allowed on these voyages in case we come across bad weather. If the weather is good we use the time to explore new places before reaching our final destination
We have also introduced Blue Water Adventures - an opportunity to mix coastal cruising with true ocean sailing. Although the passages are not quite as long as our ocean passages, they provide the perfect opportunity to 'try' ocean sailing and watchkeeping for a few days and see if you like it.
Both our Ocean Passages and Blue Water Adventures are ideal trips for new Yachtmasters to learn about ocean passage making, watchkeeping routines, on board maintenance schedules, long distance catering, weather forecasting etc.
If you are planning on becoming an Ocean Yachtmaster in the future this is the ideal opportunity to learn the practicalities without the responsibility. Lin is both an instructor and examiner for this qualification and happy to share with you her knowledge gained through years of experience. If you are interested in using one of our trips as the 600 mile qualifying passage towards your yachtmaster ocean certificate please contact us in advance.
It is difficult to predict the time it takes to complete a long passage. We have to guarantee that we reach our destination, so our trip lengths have been decided using an average speed of 4 knots. That is 4 knots made good to our destination – which takes into account the fact we might be beating to windward. If it is flat calm and our speed drops below this we will need to motor,
In most expected weather patterns it is likely that we will achieve an average speed of 6 knots, and the itinerary is loosely based around this. It is more likely on a long passage, that some of the time we will sail at speeds of 7 and above, but this is often balanced by us sailing at less than 5
We will constantly keep an eye on our progress, and the average speed required. All ‘extra time’ will be used to explore other places, we will not simply ‘arrive’ at our destination early
Please be aware that the itineraries for these passages are completely dictated by the weather. If we believe a passage is going to be slow, we will not stop on the first night. However if the weather is inclement on the first day, it is more likely that we will stop to have a breather after getting to know the boat.
On all ocean passages and blue water adventures you will be taking part in a watch routine. The watch routine will result that you are on duty for 12 hours in 24, and off duty for 12 hours in 24. Usually in 6 hour watches during the day and 4 hour watches during the night. Duties include steering, navigating, filling in the log book, keeping a look out, trimming sails, cooking, washing up, cleaning etc
We carry a sextant and all the publications you need to learn to take sights and turn the results into a position on the chart. We are also happy to teach you how to use all of our electronic equipment.
If you have any questions about ocean passage making please do not hesitate to ask.
Visitors comments from a recent ocean passage
'An absolutely splendid way to make a first passage. Great sailing in a wonderfully secure boat and well looked after by Lin and Richard, Thanks'
'A great experience. Thanks to you both for the free lessons on astro and ships electronics - much appreciated. If ever a boat was built for passage making it is Velvet Lady. Thanks again'
