Trip duration
Number of nights
0 - 30
Country Region
Type of sailing activity
FAQ
Your travel experience
In this category we answer some frequently asked questions about your travel experience on board the Eye of the Wind.
Do you have any further questions that are not listed in this section? Then please contact us, we will be happy to advise you individually.
In addition to contacting us by telephone or email, a chat function is also available during our office hours at the bottom of this page.
In which waters does the Eye of the Wind sail?
The Eye of the Wind is on the move all year round. Our sailing areas are chosen so that we always sail "with the good weather".
In the summer months, the ship usually sails in European waters on the coasts of the North Sea and Baltic Sea and/or in the Mediterranean.
The travel programme in the winter half-year includes trips around the Canary Islands and in the Caribbean Sea.
Two annual Atlantic crossings (westbound in autumn, eastbound in spring) are also on the itinerary.
The sailing areas and destination harbours vary from year to year. The destinations visited are a varied mix of large harbour towns, smaller towns, bathing bays and anchorages. The ports of entry and exit are generally selected so that they are easy to reach by public transport.
Do I need previous sailing experience?
No, previous sailing experience is not necessary to participate in a trip.
The experienced regular crew of the Eye of the Wind is responsible for the operation of the ship and for sailing manoeuvres. Guests and fellow travellers are welcome to help if they wish. Active participation in sailing manoeuvres is always voluntary and under the guidance of the crew. Climbing harnesses that meet the necessary safety requirements are available on board for climbing the mast.
What is the ratio of "time at sea / time in harbour"?
As a rule, we call at a port every day, leaving plenty of time for exploring ashore. The longer transfer trips are exceptions to this.
The itinerary and the stopovers and ports listed in our travel descriptions are optional and may change at short notice due to wind and weather conditions. The captain often decides the course of each day's stage on the same day and, whenever possible, takes your wishes into account. As sailing depends on wind direction and strength, it is inevitable that some sections of the route – sometimes even longer stages – will have to be covered with the help of the engine. This is particularly true in calm winds and for sailing at river mouths or in archipelago areas.
As a rule, sailing takes place during the day before seeking a berth in the harbour or an anchorage in the evening. On longer so-called transfer trips, sailing or motoring also takes place at night. In some ports and bays in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean, the ship cannot moor at a fixed berth due to its excessive draught. In this case, disembarkation and shore leave are carried out with the aid of a motorised dinghy. We do not usually offer guided shore excursions; activities during shore leave must be planned independently. Our crew can provide helpful tips in many ports.
Can/must I actively participate in sailing operations?
You may do so anytime, but you don't have to.
Active participation in sailing manoeuvres is possible at any time and is always voluntary and supervised. Climbing harnesses that meet the necessary safety requirements are available on board for climbing the mast.
If you wish, you can steer the ship yourself using instructions and the compass. You are also welcome to take on other tasks such as lookout and anchor watch if you wish.
The same applies to the typical tasks of daily life on board – from scrubbing the deck to light ship maintenance – helping hands are welcome, but assistance is always voluntary.
Only crew members have access to the radio room, engine room, galley and cold storage room. Guests are not permitted to actively participate in these areas.
What should I pack in my luggage?
You do not need to buy any special sailing equipment. Here are some useful tips:
Bed linen and towels will be provided in your cabin upon arrival.
You will receive a list of recommended items to pack with your booking documents once you have completed your travel reservation. You can view this list in advance in the practical tips section.
When sailing, it is advisable to bring warm and waterproof clothing regardless of the season. Water-repellent and windproof jackets and trousers are advantageous. We also recommend headgear, e.g. a scarf or hat, non-slip and waterproof footwear, and gloves. For safety reasons, please avoid wearing shoes with pointed or high heels on deck.
The weight of your luggage should not exceed 20 kilograms if possible. If you are travelling by plane, please also note the baggage regulations of the respective airline. If possible, do not use hard-shell suitcases or bulky items of luggage, as these are difficult to stow in the cabins. Use soft bags (e.g. travel bags, sports bags, duffel bags). It is generally advisable to take only as much luggage as necessary. On a sailing trip, you will hardly need any formal evening wear, and there is less space available in the cupboards than you are used to at home.
Musical instruments and games liven up the social gathering and are welcome to be brought along.
Can I get seasick?
In case you get seasick: It will pass again.
The Eye of the Wind is a traditional sailing ship and therefore has no stabilisers, as is usual on large cruise ships. In other words, depending on the weather conditions, it can rock a little now and then.
To prevent the onset of seasickness, we recommend taking vitamin C, preferably in the form of ginger preparations, which you can obtain from pharmacies, health food shops or chemists (this is not intended as medical advice; please pay attention to package instructions and intolerances).
A basic note on medical care on board: An emergency pharmacy is available; the crew members are trained in first aid.
Is there an entertainment programme / moderation on board?
No, we deliberately refrain from doing so.
A sailing trip on the Eye of the Wind is hardly comparable to a cruise. On board, you will not find shopping and wellness facilities, nor a sports or entertainment programme. Even the day and evening cruises as part of the harbour festivals usually take place without moderation.
Instead, you experience the nature around you very directly and immediately: Weather changes, wind and waves, animal observations and the coastal landscape. Our fellow sailors are thrilled to be able to do without television reception, internet and mobile phones for hours or sometimes days on end. Personal conversations with your fellow travellers lead to an exchange of ideas and even new friendships.
Those who get involved will never miss an entertainment programme. Numerous entries in the guest books on board prove this.
Around the ship
For some of our guests, their first trip on a sailing ship is a step into an unfamiliar environment. In this category, we provide you with a compass to help you find your way around on board a little better.
Do you have any further questions that are not listed in this section? Then please contact us, we will be happy to advise you individually.
In addition to contacting us by telephone or email, a chat function is also available during our office hours at the bottom of this page.
How many people can be accommodated on the boat?
A maximum of 12 guests can sail aboard the Eye of the Wind.
The lower deck has six cabins, each with two bunks (beds). Each cabin can accommodate a maximum of two people. In exceptional cases, where parents wish to travel with a child, three people can stay in one cabin – the bunks are wide enough for this.
The regular crew usually consists of eight to ten people. Their living area is located in the front part of the lower deck. This means that a maximum of 22 people can travel on the Eye of the Wind.
How many guest cabins does the ship have?
There are six double cabins available on board the Eye of the Wind.
There are six double cabins on the lower deck, four of which are slightly larger and two smaller. All cabins have their own bathroom with shower and toilet.
The central point on the lower deck is the so-called saloon with a library and seating area as a communal area.
The exact layout and division of the cabins can be found in our on-board brochure, please turn to page 9.
How are the cabins equipped?
The cabins are comfortably furnished. Each two-person cabin has its own bathroom.
As is customary on sailing ships, accommodation is in two-person cabins. In addition to a toilet, shower and air conditioning, each cabin has standard 230-volt power connections. The power supply, air conditioning and heating system also function independently of the shore power connection, i.e. at sea, while the generator is running.
Bed linen and towels are provided in the cabins.
You will usually only use your cabin for sleeping. During the day, you will hardly spend any time in your cabin, but rather in the saloon or on deck. Nevertheless, the cabins are comfortable and cosily furnished.
Please be aware that there is limited space compared to what you are used to at home; storage space for luggage in the cabins is also limited.
Single accommodation is available for an additional charge, subject to availability. If you would like this option, please contact us in good time.
The cabins do not have their own safes. There have never been any cases of theft on board, so we practise an "open door" policy, also for safety reasons.
There is no Wi-Fi reception in the cabins.
How is the quality of the food?
The galley consistently receives top marks in customer satisfaction surveys. That is our standard and our promise.
All meals on board are included in our travel packages. You will receive breakfast, lunch and dinner every day. Depending on the daily schedule (shore leave), coffee and pastries are also served in the afternoon. Meals are taken together in the saloon on the upper deck.
Coffee and tea are available during the day and water is available around the clock. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages can be purchased from the on-board bar.
Regional ingredients are often used in the preparation of meals. If you have any special food allergies or intolerances (gluten intolerance, lactose intolerance, etc.), please inform us in advance and bring any necessary dietary supplements, substitutes, medication, blockers, etc. in sufficient quantities on board.
Is there WLAN / Internet on board?
There is no on-board Wi-Fi network available. Our tip: simply switch off while on holiday.
In ports and near the coast, reception is usually good enough for the internet to work on mobile devices. There is no on-board Wi-Fi network or on-board internet hotspot.
The ship's communication system has an internet connection that is intended exclusively for nautical and ship operation purposes.
What language is used for communication on board?
English and German are spoken on board.
Many of our crew members are native English or German speakers. The international crew usually communicates with each other in English. If you have any difficulties understanding, please ask. An English-speaking crew member is sure to be nearby.
How does the electricity and water supply work?
An on-board system ensures the supply of electricity and water.
Each cabin has standard 230-volt power connections. The power supply, air conditioning and heating system also function independently of the shore power connection, i.e. at sea, while the generator is running (usually in the morning and evening for several hours at a time). Nevertheless, please only bring those electrical appliances on board that you absolutely need.
The ship has a large fresh water tank, which provides sufficient drinking and shower water for everyone on board during all trips. Fresh water should be used sensibly and sparingly, just as it is on land. There is no need to save water when using the toilets, as they are flushed with seawater.
Travel booking: Your way on board
We attach great importance to individual trip advice, because a successful holiday begins with good preparation. As an initial guide, we have compiled some questions and answers for you here.
Do you have any further questions that are not listed in this section? Then please contact us, we will be happy to advise you individually.
In addition to the Contact us by phone or e-mail a chat function is also available on this page during our office hours.
What services are included in the tour price?
Accommodation, full board... and an unforgettable travel experience.
The tour price includes VAT and covers all overnight stays in a comfortable double cabin as well as full board (including all meals, welcome drink, water, coffee and tea).
Each guest cabin is equipped with hot and cold running water, shower and toilet, bed linen, towels and air conditioning.
The extensive on-board library (including DVD collection and TV) can be used in the lower saloon.
If you would like to actively participate in sailing and climb the mast, safety equipment (climbing harness) is of course available free of charge.
At the end of the trip, we will send you the final group photo of your journey.
The price does not include travel to and from the destination, fees for any entry visas that may be required for individual countries, the cost of shore excursions, or soft drinks and alcoholic beverages (beer, wine and spirits are available from the on-board bar).
A word about pricing: we do not charge any additional or hidden costs such as annual club or membership fees, a deposit into the "on-board cash box" for provisions and harbour fees, an additional fee for the ship's cook, a fixed tip for the regular crew, or a "diesel flat rate", etc. All these ship operating and service costs are already included in our final price.
We place great importance on the fact that we do not sail with a frequently changing volunteer crew, but with a crew of permanent employees. The crew consists of a captain, first mate, engineer, ship's cook and deckhands. All crew members are familiar with the ship, even in challenging nautical situations, which contributes to your personal safety.
Can I book a single cabin?
Yes, this is possible, provided that a cabin is available.
Single accommodation is usually subject to a surcharge. If you would like to take advantage of this option, please contact us in good time.
Are there any age restrictions for sailing?
Upwards: no. Downwards: hardly.
There is no upper age limit for participating in a sailing trip.
If you would like to travel with children, please contact us in advance. Children's life jackets are available on board. Long voyages are rather unsuitable for children.
By the way: children and young people up to the age of 14 travel at half price on most of our day trips at harbour festivals.
Can I charter the whole ship?
Yes, that is possible. With a full charter, you determine the course of your holiday!
Would you like to spend an unforgettable time at sea with your family, friends, club or company employees? – For business and private sailing trips, day events and multi-day trips, we have the right ship for your crew!
With an individual charter, you can make the Eye of the Wind your "own" ship. Unlike our day trips and voyages, you decide on the port of departure, destination, course and duration of your stay on board.
You can find details on this on our website under the Charter section.
What is the Sailtraining programme for young people?
Participants aged 16 to 25 can sail with us at half the regular price upon request.
Seafaring skills are practised and maintained on board every day. To keep traditional seamanship alive, we make it easier for teenagers and young adults to access sail training on board the Eye of the Wind. You can find details on this in the Young sailors section.
Are animals allowed on board?
For the sake of the animal: only with restrictions.
For day trips and short trips, it is generally possible to bring your own dog on board – provided that the other passengers agree and the animal is of an appropriate size. Please be sure to contact us well in advance of your trip.
Are you the owner of the ship or a travel agency?
FORUM train & sail GmbH has been the owner of the Eye of the Wind since 2009.
We are not an agency; with us, you book your sailing trip directly. We are, so to speak, a small shipping company with a single ship. You can find out more about our company on this website in the About us section.
What travel documents and visas are required?
Depending on your destination: In most cases, a valid passport is sufficient.
Please bring your valid identity card or, if applicable, your valid passport and boarding pass. Please note that if you are flying to the Caribbean, your passport should be valid for at least six months.
Don't forget your flight, train or bus tickets!
If you have a nautical mileage book, please bring it with you and you will receive your mileage confirmation at the end of the trip.
When travelling to foreign countries, visa or passport requirements may also apply.
What medical aspects need to be considered?
Preventive health care is not usually necessary for participation in a sailing trip. You should be in good physical condition so that you can hold on securely even in rough seas.
We recommend that you take out private leisure accident insurance and, if necessary, special international health insurance including medical repatriation.
If you are dependent on medication, please bring a sufficient supply with you on board. Please inform the office and the captain on board in advance about your health condition (e.g. allergies, diabetes). An emergency first aid kit is available on board; the crew members are trained in first aid.
Sunscreen with a high sun protection factor and, if necessary, good sunglasses should be included in your luggage. If you wear glasses, you should bring a glasses strap to secure them. To prevent seasickness, we recommend taking vitamin C, preferably in the form of ginger preparations, which are available from pharmacies, health food shops or drugstores (this information is not intended as medical advice; please read the package instructions and check for any intolerances).
When travelling abroad, please note any necessary vaccinations.
Before participating in trips where it is not possible to call at a port for more than a week, or only under difficult conditions (e.g. Atlantic crossing), a medical certificate must be presented in advance certifying physical and health suitability. We will provide you with an information sheet containing further details. We also recommend a visit to the dentist before longer trips.
The ship is not wheelchair accessible.
Do I need special insurance cover?
Taking out travel insurance is advisable at your own discretion.
We recommend that you take out travel insurance in case you are unable to travel for health or other reasons. In individual cases, it may also be advisable to take out international health insurance and/or travel cancellation insurance.
Is it possible to travel by public transport?
For arrival and departure in German departure and destination ports, you have the option of using the train as a means of transport with our "Rail & Sail" combined offer.
Good for the environment, convenient for you: travel cheaply by train to your sailing trip or to your day trip in all German harbour cities.
With the co-operation offer of the AKADEMIE HERKERT and Deutsche Bahn Travel relaxed and comfortably to FORUM train & sail GmbH events. By switching to the railway, you are helping our environment and actively contributing to climate protection.
Further details and direct, convenient online booking can be found under this link to AKADEMIE HERKERT.
Is payment secure when booking online?
Yes, payment can be made either by invoice or via the secure PayPal payment service.
Before making your payment, you will first receive a booking confirmation from us. For details on payment, please refer to point 3 of our General Terms and Conditions.
FORUM train & sail GmbH is registered in the German commercial register under number HRB 24442.
Can I cancel a booked trip?
Yes, you can. (However, you would be missing out on a great travel experience.)
The details regarding cancellation or rebooking your reservation are described in section 4 of our General Terms and Conditions.