This Sailing Adventure can be booked via our partner Reederij Oosterschelde
Sailing Adventure: From Cape Verde to Faial on the Morgenster
Your sailing adventure begins as you arrive at Amilcar Cabral Airport on the island of Sal, Cape Verde. From there, it’s just a short taxi ride to the charming village of Palmeira, where the Morgenster is anchored in the bay. If you plan to spend a few extra days on Sal before your voyage, we recommend booking accommodation in the nearby town of Santa Maria—a perfect spot to unwind and explore the island. Once at the harbor, you’ll be greeted by the crew and taken aboard the Morgenster by tender. And just like that, your seafaring journey begins.
Life Aboard: Embrace the Sailor’s Life
As soon as you step on board, you become part of the Morgenster’s crew. This is no ordinary cruise; you’ll be part of the team, taking part in the watch system and learning the ropes as we sail across the Atlantic. The crew will provide an in-depth briefing before departure, and you’ll receive regular instruction along the way. As we sail, you’ll learn all about schooner-brig rigging, navigation, meteorology, and the day-to-day maintenance of the ship. This hands-on experience will immerse you in the true life of a sailor, working together with your fellow crew members to ensure a safe and swift journey.
Sailing Across the Atlantic
The Atlantic Ocean lies ahead, and while we won’t make any stops along the way, the journey is far from monotonous. Sailing through the trade wind belt, you’ll experience steady winds from the north to northeast. These favorable conditions allow us to sail as close to the wind as possible, creating an exciting challenge for the crew. But as we progress, the weather shifts, and we leave the trade winds behind. We’ll enter the westerlies, where the weather is more variable, and we may encounter a low-pressure system. This could mean changing winds, occasional rain, and clear skies following the front. With the changing conditions, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to adjust the sails, reef, unreef, and adjust our course, making every day on board a new adventure.
Wildlife and Wonders at Sea
As we approach the Azores, the ocean comes to life with the possibility of spotting whales. These waters are rich with marine wildlife, and you may also encounter dolphins, flying fish, or even the elusive moonfish. Seabirds will be your constant companions, and their presence adds a special element to the journey. Every day brings new chances to witness the beauty of the ocean’s creatures in their natural habitat, making your role as a crew member even more rewarding.
We aim to arrive at Horta on the island of Faial by March 14th, where we’ll spend a short time ashore exploring the lush, green island. This time of year is particularly beautiful, with Faial’s early spring bringing vibrant vegetation. Known for its oceanic climate, Faial can surprise you with four seasons in one day, so pack for both sunny skies and potential rain showers. After your stay on Faial, you can either disembark and explore the Azores further or continue sailing with us on the next leg of the journey.
Becoming a Part of the Crew
Sailing aboard a square-rigged tall ship like the Morgenster is a truly unique experience, whether you’re an experienced sailor or stepping aboard for the first time. The waters between the Cape Verde Islands and the Azores are ideal for sailing, with steady Northeast Trade Winds blowing at a comfortable force of 4 to 6 Beaufort. The Morgenster thrives in these conditions, gracefully navigating the long ocean swells.
Onboard, you’re not a passenger but a guest crew member, assigned to a watch alongside the professional crew. You’ll receive detailed instruction on how to sail, steer, and navigate the ship, and you’ll learn essential skills for daily life at sea. You’ll also be taught how to assist in emergencies, ensuring you and your fellow crew members can handle any challenges that may arise. Don’t worry if you’ve never sailed before—no prior experience is necessary, and the crew will guide you through everything from handling lines to managing sails. Most guests find that they enjoy getting involved in the ship’s operations, but your participation is always tailored to your preferences and abilities.
The Ultimate Sailing Experience
This is more than just a voyage across the Atlantic—it’s an opportunity to experience the thrill of life at sea, to witness the majesty of marine wildlife, and to gain new skills while working as part of a team. From adjusting the sails in changing winds to spotting whales near the Azores, every day brings something new. Whether you’re looking for a unique adventure or a chance to step into the world of traditional sailing, the Morgenster offers a truly unforgettable experience. Are you ready to set sail?
This Sailing Adventure can be booked via our partner Reederij Oosterschelde