From the North Sea to the Western Baltic Sea

Elbe, the North Sea and the Bay of Kiel
Spring Cruises from Hamburg to Kiel

Our North Sea and Baltic Sea spring cruises begin in the heart of Hamburg. In Hamburg, we welcome you on board our traditional two-mast brig and take you on an unforgettable and relaxing journey to the mouth of the Elbe, through the middle of Schleswig-Holstein and into the Kiel Fjords.

Take some time beforehand to explore Hamburg, a member of the medieval Hanseatic League, a merchant guild stretching across northern Europe.

You'll quickly feel right at home in the cosy lounges and on the deck of the 'Eye of the Wind'. After a welcome drink and dinner, you'll have another opportunity to explore Hamburg and the famous night life on the Reeperbahn.

Panoramic view of Hamburg City Centre (image courtesy of www.mediaserver. hamburg.de, C. Spahrbier).

"Leinen los!" And we're sailing down the Elbe towards the North Sea

The next morning, after a safety briefing and instructions on handling the sails, you'll soon hear "Leinen los!" and we'll begin sailing down the Elbe.  The dull horns of the tugboats in Hamburg harbour will become ever softer as we glide forward slowly, pushed along by the river's current.

The weather, the wind and your wishes determine the itinerary

Depending on the prevailing wind and weather conditions as well as your individual wishes, we will decide at this point whether to sail straight to the Kiel Canal or to take a day trip to Heligoland.

You will come to know the 'Eye of the Wind' as a seaworthy and reliable ship that has withstood every type of weather condition. The fresh sea air will also stimulate your appetite—you can look forward to dining in our excellent galley where you'll be surprised every day with a variety of creations from the galley cook book.

Through the Kiel Canal to the Baltic

In Brunsbüttel we pass through the locks and enter the Kiel Canal. Passing through the canal locks is always a special experience. At the other end of the canal, we'll pass through the Holtenau locks into the Kiel Fjord.

Adventure sailing in the South Funen Archipelago

Once again, the captain will often decide on where we'll go on the day, based on the winds, the weather and, whenever possible, your wishes, of course. This ensures that your cruise will be a pleasant mix of adventure and comfort, from joining in and simple enjoyment.

Options for a port of call in the Kiel area include the neighbouring small town of Eckernförde, the historic Kappeln Harbour in the Schlei fjord off the Baltic, the typical Danish port city of Sønderborg, the small fishing village of the same name on the island of Bagenkop or the fishing village of Marstal on the south-eastern tip of the Danish island of Ærø.

Immpressions of the Kiel Fjord maritime area (images courtesy of Landeshauptstadt Kiel, Bodo Quante).

Disembark with a duffel bag full of memories

We will come to the end of our week-long spring cruise as we pull into Kiel-Holtenau Harbour. Here you'll say goodbye to our crew and your fellow sailors. You'll be departing with some relaxing days on the North and Baltic Seas behind you. The trip offers plenty of variety with a balance between time sailing and relaxing shore excursions.

Highlights of this trip:

• Sailing on the North and Baltic Sea—from the Elbe estuary in the Bay of Kiel
• Optional visit to the offshore island of Heligoland with duty-free shopping
• Passage on board through the Kiel Canal
• Pleasant sailing in an area free of extreme weather and sea conditions
• Active sailing operation on a more than 100 year-old Windjammer
• Excellent galley with culinary highlights from morning to night

Services included:

• 6 nights' accommodation on the 100 year-old historic 'Eye of the Wind'
• Accommodation in exclusive double cabin with hot and cold running water, shower, toilet and air conditioning
• Full board (including all meals, soft drinks, coffee & tea)
• Lounge with TV/video and extensive on-board library, some limited WiFi access available

Not included:
Travel to Hamburg and from Kiel, shore excursions and alcoholic beverages. We will be glad to help you make individual plans for your arrival and departure. Please contact us.