Day 1

In the sheltered bay near the village of Le Marin, the ‘Oosterschelde’ awaits you. The ship is anchored, and our crew will bring you aboard using the dinghy. You will meet the captain and fellow passengers and enjoy a light dinner together. The crew will familiarize you with the ship, and the captain or first mate will explain the plans for the upcoming sailing journey.

Day 2 

After a refreshing morning swim in the bay, it’s time to depart. For the first time, you will help hoist the sails and feel the trade winds propel the ship through the deep blue waters. We sail to Dominica, where we will anchor in the bay near Rousseau by late afternoon.

Day 3

Dominica is the largest and most mountainous island of the Windward Islands of the Lesser Antilles. Relatively untouched by mass tourism, it offers a unique experience. Today, you may choose to join a guided hike across the island. Along the way, the guide will introduce you to local fruits and spices and lead you to a natural pool beneath a jungle waterfall for an unforgettable swim!

Day 4

The next destination is Guadeloupe, a French overseas department. This island is actually an archipelago consisting of two main islands – Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre – separated by a narrow strait, as well as several smaller islands. Guadeloupe offers a blend of French and Caribbean influences, creating a unique atmosphere.

Day 5

Over a quarter of the island is designated as a National Park. Nature enthusiasts can spend the day exploring the park, climbing the La Soufrière volcano, or walking through lush rainforests. Snorkelers and divers are encouraged to visit the Jacques Cousteau diving site, often regarded as one of the most beautiful spots in the world.

Day 6

After a refreshing morning swim, we sail onward to the volcanic island of Montserrat. The Soufrière volcano erupted in 1995, devastating much of the island. Even the capital had to be abandoned. To this day, parts of the island remain uninhabitable due to the eruption.

Day 7

Today you will have time to explore Montserrat.

Day 8

We continue our journey to the circular island of Nevis. Nevis is part of the Lesser Antilles and a constituent state of Saint Kitts and Nevis. Christopher Columbus discovered the island in 1493 and named it Nevis, believing he saw snow on the summit of the island’s highest mountain.

Day 9

This highest peak is the mysterious Nevis Peak, a dormant volcano surrounded by lush jungle and hiking trails. Today, you can opt for a hike through the rainforest. History enthusiasts may enjoy visiting Charlestown to see colonial architecture and the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States.

Day 10

Today we sail onward to the French Antilles. Our destination is the island of Saint-Barthélemy, better known as St. Barths (pronounced in American English). This volcanic island, surrounded by shallow reefs and white sandy beaches, is a favorite destination for the rich and famous.

Day 11

In 1957, David Rockefeller built a large villa on St. Barth, followed soon after by the Rothschild family. This set the tone for the island, which became a popular retreat for celebrities. You might spot Madonna or George Clooney on the beach or in one of the many shopping streets in Gustavia.

Day 12 – 13

For the final time, we hoist the sails and head toward the final destination of our journey, Saint Martin. The island is divided into a Dutch and French side. We will anchor in the bay near Marigot, on the French side, in the late afternoon. The next morning, after breakfast, you will disembark. St. Martin has an international airport with excellent connections to various airports in Europe and North America.

We would like the ‘Oosterschelde’ to be accessible to everyone, but making a sea voyage aboard a sailing ship can be challenging and you must be sufficiently fit and healthy to do so. We divide all trips into three levels with an icon of one, two or three waves. Not every level is suitable for everyone. The shipping company may contact you to discuss your participation. In an extreme case, the shipping company may advise against going on a particular trip. Are you unsure if a particular trip is suitable for you? Then contact our shipping office to discuss it.

Level 1

Level 1 voyages are suitable for anyone with good mobility and health. Often these voyages are in sheltered areas or close to the coast. However, it is still a journey on a sailing ship, at sea and so you must weigh up for yourself whether you can cope.

Level 2

Level 2 voyages are often heavier or further from home. You must be able to cope well under sometimes challenging conditions, but in case of need, the ship can be in a port within 24 – 48 hours. There is no age limit, but you may be asked to provide additional proof of fitness or health.

Level 3

Level 3 voyages are only for the experienced and fit sea traveler. The weather can be challenging and there are no ports to call at, along the way. We are out of helicopter range and medical care  from shore is not available. These trips are open to people up to 73 years of age, and you may be asked to provide additional proof of fitness or health.