Windward Isles Sailing Ship Co. - small ship cruises, information center on small ships

WINDWARD ISLES SAILING COMPANY
Around the world

PICTON CASTLE
Passenger Capacity: 38 sail trainees
Built: 1928
Former Name: Dolmar
Length: 179 ft.
Beam: 24 ft.
Officers: American, Danish, Canadian
Staff and Crew: 10. US, Canada, South Africa

Itinerary: It has a 12-month trip around the world for square-rigger sail trainees, visiting more than a dozen countries, including such ports as San Blas islands, Panama Canal, Galapagos Islands, Pitcairn Island, French Polynesia, Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, Vanuatu, Bali, Madagascar, Cape Town, St. Helena, Caribbean.

Cabins: Accommodations are bunkroom style, two tiers of bunks with curtains.

Dining: Dining is buffet style, very informal (sit on hatch cover or benches).

Dress: Casual. Foul weather gear needed.

Facilities and Activities: This is a barque, a traditional square-rigger, used as a working "adventure sail" ship. All hands work the ship: handling sails, scrubbing the deck, taking a turn at the wheel, raising anchor, hauling lines, helping in the galley, painting, varnishing, and keeping lookout (going aloft is optional). Instruction is given in sail handling, small boat handling, steering, navigation, knots, and other nautical skills. Trainees are age 18 to 70, co-ed. Couples, children and families are not accepted. Preference goes to those signing on for the entire voyage.

Recent Fares Reported to Us: Entire trip: $36,000. Legs (13 weeks): $11,000. Trainees can join at one of four fixed-date ports. Whole boat charter: $12,500 per day.
For current fares and itinerary of Picton Castle, click on this direct link

TO MAKE A RESERVATION: Small Ship Cruises We work with several agencies and tour operators who are experts in small ships.

For them to make a reservation for you, fill out the Cruise Request Form.