Life on Board a Classic Schooner

Life on board Spirit

Onboard Spirit, every journey is shaped by active involvement: sailing, navigating, keeping watch, sharing meals, even helping with maintenance. This is a vessel from the golden age of yacht design, where elegance meets purpose and the focus shifts from luxury to authenticity.

Skipper steering the schooner Spirit of Ostend while sailing offshore.

Spirit of Ostend is a classic 70-foot steel schooner. Built in 1972 in the Hamble, South England, and fitted out in St. Malo in the style of an Edwardian “gentleman’s” yacht, she carries both tradition and timeless grace.

Formerly known as Spirit of Oysterhaven, she sailed for more than 20 years from the beautiful bay of Oysterhaven in Ireland. A fast and responsive yacht in her class, she has competed in successive Antigua Classic Regattas in the Caribbean and Tall Ships Regattas in the Mediterranean.

With her long keel and 50 tons displacement, she offers both stability and speed on the wild Atlantic waves.

Spirit of Ostend, a 70-foot classic schooner sailing under full sail in the Atlantic.

  • Life on board is shared and takes place in a limited space.

    Participants are expected to contribute to everyday tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and keeping the boat in good order. How this is organised depends on the voyage and the group.

    Clear agreements and cooperation make life on board easier for everyone.

  • No sailing experience is required.

    Participants are invited to take part in the life of the boat: steering, keeping watch, handling lines, assisting with everyday tasks. Everything is explained clearly and at an appropriate pace.

    Participation is about being present and attentive to what is happening, not about performance or technical skill.

  • Safety is an integral part of life on board.

    At the start of each voyage, safety procedures are explained and equipment is introduced. Clear instructions are given for moving on deck, working with ropes, and being on watch.

    Participants are expected to follow instructions and to move attentively, especially when conditions require it.

  • Spirit is equipped with a reliable heating system. When needed, the interior is warm and dry.

    We sail in the North Atlantic, where weather can change and conditions vary. Appropriate clothing is essential: warm layers, waterproof outerwear, and practical footwear.

  • Meals on board are simple, nourishing, and shared.

    Cooking takes place in the galley and is often done together. This is not restaurant service. Storage space and cooking capacity are limited, which shapes what and how we eat.

    Dietary requirements are discussed in advance, once participation is confirmed.

  • Space on board is limited.

    • Soft bags only (no hard suitcases)

    • Clothing suitable for layered warmth and wet conditions

    • Practical shoes for on board and ashore

    A more detailed packing list is shared before departure. Bedding is provided.

  • Participants are responsible for their own health and medication.

    Relevant medical information is shared privately before departure so that arrangements can be made where necessary. Personal medication must be brought on board by the participant.