See the vast array of stars at night without the light pollution. Enjoy the peacefulness of the sea by night. Spare a thought for the passing fishermen as they set off to work. You will be rocked to sleep in a private cabin after a full day of fresh air. Get up early to see a new day dawning on the horizon.
Overnight Trip
Sail away from the safety of the harbour to a quiet destination where we can drop anchor for the night. Enjoy a warm meal in the fresh air before being rocked to sleep in your private cabin. Count the stars in the sky and watch the sun rise over the horizon.
More Details
There are three double cabins on the boat, so it is perfectly set up for six adults to sleep while the boat is underway. If we are staying overnight in a marina or at an anchorage, we can drop the saloon table to make another double bed and there is also a long seat which can be used as a single bed. The cockpit can also be enclosed to provide two single beds for the more outdoors – type. It may seem lovely and romantic to spend a night on deck under the stars, but it gets very cold, so not recommended, sorry :(. With these options, ten people can be accommodated, but please bear in mind that the skipper needs a place to rest his head and there may also be a first mate aboard, so eight is normally the maximum number of passengers.
If you have ever stayed in a caravan you will know that privacy is a luxury, so please make sure you are among like-minded friends. If you joke about Aunt Flo’s pink spandex in your cabin, chances are that she can hear you; the walls are made of very thin plywood. Don’t expect to keep any secrets on the boat.
Night-time ablutions can create anxious times for some people. Don’t worry about it; our bodily functions are nothing to be embarrassed about, although I would recommend staying away from the Indian curry. At least we have two heads (toilets) aboard, in case you’re caught short.
The beds have sheets, duvets and pillows, so there is no need for sleeping bags.
We will have cereal, juice, toast, fruit, etc. for breakfast. If you have any special dietary requirements, please let us know in advance.
FAQ
Yes, we have two heads (toilets) aboard. One electric, à la Japan 😊 and one manual. Marine toilets are a new experience for many people. You need to pump out the bowl when you’ve finished and pump fresh water back in again. Toilet roll should be kept to a minimum, or at least flush after every few sheets.
No, most of the old sailors believed it was better to die quickly if you fell overboard. Swimming would only prolong the agony.
We will provide lifejackets, but see note above about swimming. Please stay on the boat. 😊
Snacks and a light lunch will be provided aboard, within the package price. Evening meal and breakfast is included within the overnight package. If you have any special dietary requirements, please advise us beforehand, or bring your own food if you wish.
No, we will sail the yacht, allowing you to look around you and enjoy the experience.
This is not a training course, but we hope that you will learn a few things along the way, even about yourself. If you think sailing could be your new hobby and you want to take it further, we will be happy to advise.
We will meet you at the gates to the marina, beside the West Marina Car Park and Windrose Bar, in Carrickfergus. If you require transport, we have a 9-seater VW Transporter and we can collect your group and luggage from anywhere in the region.
We would advise bringing a waterproof coat. Climate change is a slow process and Northern Ireland still has twice the rainfall of Spain. ☹ Only soft-soled, non-marking shoes please.
Even Admiral Nelson got seasick, so don’t worry too much about it. If you stay warm, well rested and well hydrated, you improve your chances. Anxiety is a factor too, so sit back and enjoy the trip. You can take seasickness tablets if you wish, but check the instructions, as some of them need to be 24 hours prior to travelling.
