2026 Sailing Plan

A challenging and exciting season afloat
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Departure Date: 24-May-26

Arrival Date: 25-May-26

Remaining Places Available: 12

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Departure Location: New Cut East, Ipswich, IP3 0EA, United Kingdom

Arrival location: New Cut East, Ipswich, IP3 0EA, United Kingdom

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Cost of trip: £159 age 25 and under, £185.50 age 26 and over, including 6% online booking fee

Bursaries & Sponsorships:

Apply for SPONSORSHIP

SPRING BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND OVERNIGHTER

24th and 25th May 2026

£159 age 25 and under, £185.50 age 26 and over including 6% online booking fee

Call or email to book without the fee!

Suitable for ages 14 and over

Always wondered what it would be like to sail on a traditionally rigged vessel but don't want, or can't commit to a long trip? Here is the solution! Step on board Excelsior and we'll teach you all you need to know about  sailing and living aboard a 105-year old Lowestoft fishing smack, all without having to haul an enormous net in. You'll learn about navigation, hoisting and dropping sails, helming, passage planning and as much as you'd like to know about our wonderful boat.

About your destination:

Starting  at Ipswich's Beacon Marina, you'll be welcomed on board by the skipper and crew and after a hot drink, you'll be given a full safety briefing, shown where your bunks are and learn how the vessel works when she's at sea. You and your fellow trainees will be divided into one of 3 4-hour watches, each with its own time to be on deck, to help with domestic duties, meal prep, and of course to sleep.

You begin your trip with a leisurely sail down the River Orwell towards the North Sea where, depending on the wind and sea conditions, you'll head north or south, putting up sails, helming, taking time to view the gorgeous East Anglia coastline, and having an explore of the area, lunch and as much tea as you can manage. Overnight you'll find a safe place to anchor for dinner and enjoy a restful night lulled by the sounds and sensations of the sea. More exploring on the second day after a good breakfast as you slowly make your way back towards the Orwell putting into practice some of the skills you learned the day before and smooth berthing at the marina.

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