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  • Atlantis
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  • Artemis
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Life on board

One hand for yourself, the other for the ship

A large sailing ship like the Elizabeth will only move if an experienced crew co-operates intensively together. Although many sails nowadays are operated electrically, they still need to be hooked up and unpacked by hand. And only if the sails stand perfectly to the wind can the ship maintain its course and make speed. Equally work intensive are all the other activities on board. Lookout and helm are manned around the clock. With each wind change in course or direction, the sails need checking and adjusting and in between there are many odd jobs to be done in order to keep the ship in top shape. Even at night, anchored, there is always someone on watch keeping an eye on the sea and the weather.

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Life on board seems like a clock that was set in motion decades ago. Often the rituals of the changing of the watch were maintained when deemed useful.

During the first hours on board, you will find it all happens with such ease and regularity that you are not disturbed by it. This is enhanced by the feeling of peace that takes over once you get used to the wind, the weather, the speed and the rhythm of the ship’s movements. Even if you do not join in the activities of the crew and just want to sit on deck, dreamily looking at the sky, the clouds and the sails, the regularity of life on board will remind you that life at sea makes you hungry!
Allow our service crew to indulge you. Just enjoy life on board, a good book or a good talk, sumptuous meals, a freshly drafted beer or a glass of good wine. Depending on the weather and the sailing plan there is enough time in the ports to allow yourself to stretch your legs and go on excursions. Swim stops, fun evenings and our legendary parties offer variety to the life on board.

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Of course you are not obliged to be lazy on board the Elizabeth. Under expert guidance you can climb the main mast or the jib boom together with the sailing crew and help with sailing manoeuvres. You can stand at the helm, assist the boatswain with his many small and large repair jobs or let yourself be initiated into the secrets of navigation. On board every hand is welcome and this rule always applies: “One hand for yourself, the other for the ship“.

This is a rule you will hear from the captain soon after boarding the ship. Once everyone has settled, all crew members and passengers will get together on deck or in the saloon to learn about safety on board, the planned travel route and to get to know one another. We are also curious about you! We are happy you have joined us and equally as happy to show you our ship.