Trip duration
Number of nights
0 - 30
Country Region
Type of cruise
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 other questions that are not listed in this block? Then please contact usWe will be happy to advise you individually.
In addition to the Contact us by phone or e-mail During our office hours, a chat function is also available at the bottom right 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 take part in a cruise.
The experienced crew of the Eye of the Wind is responsible for operating the ship and for the sailing manoeuvres. Guests and fellow travellers are welcome to help out if they wish. Active participation in sailing manoeuvres is always on a voluntary basis and under supervision the crew. Climbing harnesses that meet the necessary safety requirements are available on board for climbing up the mast.
What is the ratio of "time at sea / time in harbour"?
As a rule, a harbour is called at every day, so that there is enough time for shore exploration. Exceptions are the longer transfer voyages.
The Itinerary and the stopovers and harbours indicated 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 - of course takes your wishes into account. As travelling under sail is dependent on the direction and strength of the wind, 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 the case when there is no wind and for so-called "territorial sailing", e.g. on estuaries and in archipelago areas.
As a rule, sailing takes place during the day before a berth in the harbour or an anchorage is sought in the evening. On the longer so-called transfer cruises, the ship also sails at night or is motorised. In some harbours and bays in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean, the ship cannot moor at a fixed berth due to excessive draught. In this case, the "disembarkation" and shore leave are carried out with the help of the motorised dinghy. As a rule, we do not offer guided shore excursions; shore excursion activities must be planned independently. Our crew can give good tips in many harbours.
Can/must I actively participate in sailing operations?
You can do it at any time, but you don't have to.
Active participation in sailing manoeuvres is possible at any time and is always on a voluntary basis and under supervision. Climbing harnesses that meet the necessary safety requirements are available on board for climbing up the mast.
If you wish, you can also steer the ship yourself according to instructions and compass. You are welcome to take on other tasks such as lookout and anchor watch if you wish.
For the typical tasks of daily life on board - from "deck scrubbing" to light ship maintenance activities - the following also applies: Helping hands are welcome and assistance is always voluntary.
Only crew members have access to the radio, engine room, galley and cold room. No active participation by guests is possible there.
What should I pack in my luggage?
You don't need to buy any special sailing equipment. Here are some useful tips:
Bed linen and towels are provided on arrival in the cabins ready.
You will receive a list of recommended luggage with your booking documents once you have finalised your travel reservation. You can view this list in advance in our Practical tips view.
For sailing trips, it is advisable to bring warm and waterproof clothing regardless of the season. Water-repellent and windproof jackets and trousers are an advantage. We also recommend headgear, e.g. a scarf or Cap, 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 observe the baggage regulations of the respective airline. If possible, do not use hard-shell suitcases or bulky items of luggage, as these in the cabins can only be stowed away with difficulty. Use "soft bags" (e.g. travelling bag, sports bag, duffle bag). It is generally advisable to take only as much luggage as necessary. On a sailing trip, you will hardly need any formal outfits and there is less space available in the wardrobes than you are used to at home.
Musical instruments and games liven up the sociable round and you are welcome to bring them 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 other questions that are not listed in this block? Then please contact usWe will be happy to advise you individually.
In addition to the Contact us by phone or e-mail During our office hours, a chat function is also available at the bottom right of this page.
How many people can be accommodated on the boat?
A maximum of 12 guests can sail on board the Eye of the Wind.
The lower deck contains six chambers with two bunks each (beds). Each bunk is occupied by a maximum of two people. In the exceptional case that parents would like to travel with a child, three people can also sleep in one compartment - the bunks are wide enough for this.
To the Regular crew usually consist of eight to ten people. Their lounge area is located at the front 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?
Six double cabins are available on board the Eye of the Wind.
The lower deck contains six double cabinsfour of which are slightly larger and two smaller. All cabins have their own bathroom with shower and toilet.
The centrepiece of the lower deck is the so-called saloon with library and seating area as a communal area.
The exact arrangement and division of the chambers 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 provided in Two-person cabins. In addition to a WC, shower and air conditioning, each cabin is equipped with standard 230 volt power connections. The power supply as well as the air conditioning and heating system also work independently of the shore power connection, i.e. at sea, during generator runtimes.
Bed linen and towels are provided in the cabins.
You will generally stay in your cabin mainly to sleep. You will hardly spend any time in your cabin during the day, preferably in the saloon or on deck. Nevertheless, the cabins are comfortably and cosily furnished.
Please expect to have limited room to manoeuvre compared to the everyday situations you are used to at home; the storage space for luggage in the cabins is also limited.
If available, single accommodation can be arranged for an additional charge. If you require this, please contact us in good time.
The cabins do not have their own safe. There have never been any cases of theft on board, which is why we practise "open doors" - also for security reasons.
WLAN reception is not available in the cabins.
How is the quality of the food?
The galley consistently receives top marks in customer satisfaction surveys. That is our claim 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 served communally. in the "Messe", the saloon on the upper deck, taken.
Coffee and tea are available during the day, as well as water around the clock. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages can be purchased from the on-board bar.
Regional ingredients are often used to prepare the meals. If you are affected by special food allergies or intolerances (gluten intolerance, lactose intolerance, etc.), please inform us in advance and bring any necessary food supplements, substitutes, medication, blockers, etc. on board in sufficient quantities.
Is there WLAN / Internet on board?
An on-board WLAN network is not available. Our tip: simply switch off on holiday.
In the harbours 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?
German and English are spoken on board.
Many of our crew members have German as their mother tongue. Communicating with each other the international crew mostly in English. If you have any difficulties in understanding, please ask. A German-speaking crew member is certainly within reach.
How does the electricity and water supply work?
An on-board system ensures the power and water supply.
In each cabin there are standard 230 volt power connections. The power supply as well as the air conditioning and heating system also work independently of the shore power connection, i.e. at sea, during the generator running times (usually in the morning and evening, for several hours in each case). However, please only bring on board those power consumers that you absolutely need.
The ship has a large fresh water tank, which for all trips ensures an adequate supply of drinking and shower water for everyone on board. As on land, fresh water should be used sensibly and sparingly. There is no need to save water when using the toilets, as they are flushed with seawater.
Voyage booking: Your way on board
We attach great importance to individual cruise advice, because a successful holiday begins with good preparation. We have put together a few questions and answers for you here as an initial guide.
Do you have any other questions that are not listed in this block? Then please contact usWe 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 is inclusive of VAT and includes all overnight stays with accommodation in a comfortable double cabin and full board (incl. 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 (incl. DVD collection and TV) can be used in the lower saloon.
If you would like to actively participate in sailing and climb the mast, the safety equipment (climbing harness) is of course available free of charge.
After the end of the cruise we will send you the final group photo your journey.
Not included in the price are arrival and departure, the fees for any entry visas required for individual countries of travel, the costs for shore excursions and soft drinks and alcoholic beverages (beer, wine and spirits are offered) from the on-board bar.
A frank word about pricing: We do not charge any additional or hidden costs such as annual association or membership fees, a payment into the "on-board cash box" for provisions and harbour mooring fees, an additional fee for the ship's cook, a fixed tip for the regular crew, or even a "diesel flat rate", etc. We do not charge any of these costs. All these ship operating and service costs are already included in the final price.
We attach great importance to the fact that we do not work with a frequently changing volunteer crew, but with a permanent crew drive. The crew consists of a captain, helmsman, engineer, ship's cook and sailors. All crew members are familiar with the ship, even in challenging nautical situations, which also contributes to your personal safety.
Can I book a single cabin?
Yes, this is possible if a free cabin is available.
Single accommodation is usually available for an additional charge. If you require this, contact us in good time, please.
Are there any age restrictions for sailing?
Towards the top: no. Downwards: hardly at all.
There is no upper age limit for participation in a sailing trip.
If you are travelling with children, contact us please in advance. Children's life jackets are available on board. Long journeys are rather unsuitable for children.
By the way: Children and young people up to the age of 14 can travel on most of our Day trips for harbour festivals at half price.
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, your circle of friends, your club or the employees of your company? - For business and private sailing trips, day events and trips lasting several days, we can provide you with your own boat for your crew!
With a customised charter, you can make the Eye of the Wind your "own" ship. Unlike our Day trips and Cruises You decide on the port of departure, destination, course and duration of your stay on board.
Details can be found on these websites in the category Charter.
What is the Sailtraining programme for young people?
On request, participants aged 16 to 25 can join us as "sailing trainees" at half the regular price.
The craft of seamanship is practised and cultivated on board every day. To keep traditional "seamanship" alive, we make it easier for young people and young adults to take part in "sail training" on board the Eye of the Wind. Details can be found on these websites in the category young trainees.
Are animals allowed on board?
For the sake of the animal: only with restrictions.
With Day trips and short trips it is generally possible to take your own dog on board - subject to the agreement of the other sailors and an appropriate size of the animal. Please contact us in good time before the start of the journey.
Are you the owner of the ship or a travel agency?
FORUM train & sail GmbH has owned the Eye of the Wind since 2009.
We are not an agency, but you book with us Your sailing trip "at first hand". We are, so to speak, a small shipping company with a single Ship. You can find out more about our company on these websites in the "About us" section.
What travel documents and visas are required?
Depending on the country you are travelling to: In most cases, a valid passport is sufficient.
Please bring your valid identity card or, if applicable, a valid passport and boarding pass. Please bear in mind that if you to the Caribbean fly, your passport should be valid for at least six months.
Remember 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.
For German nationals: When travelling to non-European countries, any visa or passport requirements must also be observed. You can find the current entry requirements for your destination country here on the website of the Federal Foreign Office.
What medical aspects need to be considered?
As a rule, it is not necessary to have a medical condition to take part in a sailing trip. You should be in good physical condition so that you can hold on safely even in rough seas.
We recommend that you take out private leisure accident insurance and, if necessary, a special International health insurance incl. repatriation.
If you are dependent on medication, please bring sufficient quantities on board with you. Inform the office in advance and the captain on board about your medical condition (e.g. allergy sufferers, diabetics). An emergency pharmacy is available on board; the crew members are trained in first aid.
Sun cream with a high sun protection factor and, if necessary, a good pair of sunglasses should not be missing from your luggage. Spectacle wearers should bring a strap to secure their glasses. To combat 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 check the package instructions and any intolerances).
When travelling abroad, any necessary vaccinations must be observed.
Before taking part in voyages where it is not possible to call at a port for a period of more than one week or only under difficult conditions (e.g. Atlantic crossing), a medical certificate confirming your physical and health suitability must be submitted in advance. You will receive from us a Leaflet with further information. We also recommend a visit to the dentist before travelling for a longer period of time.
The ship is not barrier-free.
Do I need special insurance cover?
It may be advisable to take out travel insurance at your own discretion.
We recommend the Taking out ERV travel insurance in the event that 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. Please contact us in good time if you would like us to prepare an appropriate offer for you.
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 the events organised by FORUM train & sail GmbH. 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 is made either on account or with the secure payment service PayPal.
You will first receive a booking confirmation from us before making your payment. For details on payment, please refer to point 3 of our booking confirmation. General Terms and Conditions.
The FORUM train & sail GmbH is entered in the commercial register under the number HRB 24442.
Can I cancel a booked trip?
Yes, you can. (But you would be missing out on a great travelling experience).
The details for cancelling or rebooking your reservation can be found in point 4 of our General Terms and Conditions described.
If required, you will also find a Cancellation form.