Sailing News

In today’s blog, we find out how the crew dry their base layers (this is a watersport afterall) and cope a midnight shift on watch.     Tuesday’s blog The rain has stopped, least for now. It seemed to be raining on every watch for the last two days.  Watches were cold and long and… Read more

Musings from Challenger We’ve had a bit more wind today and are still sailing with the Genoa and Mainsail.  Having made our way broadly South, gybing downwind away from the Canaries (for the first 4 days). Our course is now c265 degrees almost directly towards St Lucia.  As we move West we will move further… Read more

Musings for the day The free time onboard gives one ample time for self-exploration, perhaps the reason I am attracted to such endeavours. While pondering the reason that I am here, I thought it might be interesting to pose the following question to my fellow explorers. “In one word, please tell me why you are… Read more

In the final blog for this trip crew member, Ian, give us his reflections on an epic adventure of storming seas, champagne down-wind sailing and friends forged through teamwork. Deep Sea Challenge, reflections upon the voyage   Those familiar with the Hollywood film the Wizard of Oz will know that it can be enjoyed at… Read more

Whether it is a welcome beacon of light after a difficult voyage or a much-loved landmark every sailor has their favourite lighthouse. They are essential to our safe passage and although few around the world are manned, they still give the impression that someone is there, looking out you. Below is a pick of lighthouses… Read more

  Every aspect of your RYA course with First Class Sailing, from the yachts to the all-weather clothing and food is meticulously planned. But it wouldn’t be worth anything if the instructors did match those same qualities. On a voyage the balance and make up of the crew is important, especially when you are being… Read more

See the Solent in a different light   It may come as a surprise to you, but this time of year is our favourite for sailing courses and many of our instructors prefer it. So, we’ve listed a few of the reasons why we believe Autumn sailing can be much better than in the Summer:… Read more

  The luxury yacht Santosa continues her adventures around Norway’s arctic landscape, giving couples a perfect sailing holiday while receiving all the benefits of being guest crew. 10th June 2019 – Chart Table seat, Nordskot. Arrived by plane in Bodo yesterday. After a quick lunch on board we cast off into a light northerly, that… Read more

The second leg of Santosa’s Nordic voyage began on 15 May 2019 in bright sunshine and a light north-easterly wind, leaving the bustle of Bergen’s historic Bryggen waterfront and preparations for Norway’s national Constitution Day behind us. The evening before Tom and Julie’s 25th wedding anniversary had been celebrated in style, with cake and champagne… Read more