A Guide to Booking Your Voyage:
Your Tall Ships Races adventure starts here.
Whether you’re planning to raise your own funds or apply for one of our bursaries, we have all the information you’ll need.
If you’d like help finding and booking your adventure – we’re here to help you every step of the way. Even if you haven’t quite decided on what you want to do, and where you want to go, we can guide you through the process. From finding an event and ships that’s right for you, to contacting a vessel, or finding out more about funding options.
There are differences and benefits to sailing on each class of Tall and Small Ships. But how do you choose the one that’s right for you?
Below, we explore the different types of vessels. We also look at what you can expect on board each one.
CLASS A
All square-rigged vessels – with sails at right angles to their length – as well as other vessels longer than 40 m.
CLASS B
Traditionally rigged vessels with a length of less than 40 m, and with a waterline length – the length of the point at which the vessel sits in the water – of at least 9.14 m.
Choosing an adventure on board a Class A or Class B is like travelling back to a time when sailing really meant being at one with the elements. The size of these vessels has to be experienced to be believed – a walk around some of the larger Class A’s can take up to 10 minutes. If you have a head for heights you will also have the opportunity to climb the mast to the crow’s nest and climb the rigging up to yards in order to reach the sails.
Types of accommodation vary depending on the vessel, but you can usually expect space to be minimal. You may find yourself on a mess deck full of hammocks, or in a single or mixed-sex cabin with a bunk to yourself. Wherever you sleep, you’ll definitely need to consider how much you pack.
CLASS C & D
Modern-rigged vessels with a length of less than 40 m and with a waterline length – the length of the point at which the vessel sits in the water – of at least 9.14 m, not carrying spinnaker-like sails.
Sailing on a Class C or D vessel, and even a smaller Class B, is a whole different experience. There’s a more natural focus on your connection with the sea, which isn’t surprising considering how much closer you are to the waves.
Life on board is likely to be more compact and basic than on a larger Tall Ship. Space is limited, and facilities vary from vessel to vessel, so be prepared for a very hands-on experience! This is a high-adrenaline adventure that many people can’t wait to repeat.
Speed and hands-on sailing is the name of the game on board these smaller vessels. You’ll have the opportunity to engage with every part of the sailing experience in more depth than you might do on a Tall Ship. Through professional training and giving your all, you’ll forge new friendships and create memories that you’ll never forget.
