Classic-sailing.co.uk - anyone have any feedback? Or other recommendations?

[MissFitz]

A friend of mine is keen to have a go on classic or tall ships for his 40-something birthday this year. He's done a bit of dinghy sailing but not much big boat, just wants something fun & original for a couple of days.

He was thinking of going with these guys on the Eve St Mawes http://www.classic-sailing.co.uk/ - does anyone have any feedback on the company or specific boats/courses? Or alternative recommendations?

All help much appreciated, as always!

 

[jerrytug]

Yes I would recommend it, a totally different introduction to 'big boat' sailing after dinghies.
It is much more 'nautical' as Eve is sailed the way pilot cutters were 100 yrs ago, very hands on but you can get involved, or not, as you wish. (Unless it is an RYA course obviously.)
They do everything from YM practical, to gentle birdwatching days, so they are used to skill and fitness levels from nil to top-line.
You eat and drink well, and if your friend goes, they will be raving about the experience for months after!
I have no connection but I did go on a day skipper course on Eve, years ago, a different kettle of fish to going out on a modern airfix kit.
Edited to add, as your friend is already an accomplished dinghy sailor, I would recommend a Day Skipper course on Eve of St Mawes.
They also offer DS courses on Golden Vanity out of Brixham, another big gaff cutter, similar great experience.
Both appear to be operating this year, result!

re-reading my post, it sounds like a gushing PR piece, it isn't and I am hard to please, I genuinely think what they do is unique and brilliant, cheers Jerry.

 

[Achillesheel]

I agree with Jerry, Eve is a great boat, and the skippers are all good company, very experienced, and also good cooks.

I did Day Skipper on Eve several years ago, and learnt all sorts of stuff about sail handling which you wouldn't get on a plastic boat. We've also been to the Scilly Isles on Eve, which was less successful due to the weather, but that wasn't Classic Sailing's fault.

 

[itchenseadog]

Look at Maybird Classic Sailing. Lovely 43ft 1937 Fred Sheppard designed ketch. Darryl Hughes is owner and yachtmaster instructor. Can highly reccommend. Www.maybirdclassicsailing.com

 

[MissFitz]

Thanks guys, think Classic Sailing sounds like a winner - tempted to try it myself now!

 

[Romeo]

I have sailed on Lizzie May, which is also listed on the classic sailing site. The problem is that once you go on one, you will want one for yourself. There is just something so very satisfying about the motion of these pilot cutters.

 

[Sandgrounder]

I've sailed on Leader (100 Ft Brixham Trawler) with Trinity Sailing in Brixham. They have a few others now as well. Very rewarding experience