GUEST BERTHS: 28 RIG: Brigantine

You’ll be on board the last active, originally built brigantine in the Mediterranean and one of the last wooden windjammers that are still actively sailing. She operated as a cargo ship for almost 50 years including a world war (!) before she was discovered by a family in 1978 who have loving run her as a charter vessel returning her to an original condition.

Her Captain and family live-aboard but they have their own separate quarters. Guests can enjoy private cabins in combinations of 2-3 berth bunks. All cabins share a total of four toilets and three showers with another shower on deck for a rinse off after some sea swimming.

For Atlantic crossings and Caribbean voyages only, under 30’s have the chance for a true authentic pirate experience to stay in a hammock! Each hammock will be allocated a seamans chest for any belongings and will strung up in the saloon between 9pm and 8am.

Below decks you’ll find a gorgeous saloon, bar and eating area with a traditional wooden finish. Above decks there is a large cushioned area for relaxation, sun-bathing or sleeping beneath the stars (bring your own sleeping bag if this is something you fancy!). An alfresco dining area sits mid-ships, perfect for lunches in the sun or dinners at sunset.

All her sails are set by hand and her construction is twice as strong as compared to a normal ship of her size. She is constructed with double oaked frames and up to 13 meters long, 14 cm thick ironwood planks (azobe). Her topsides are built in the finest mahogany. She was originally launched in winter of 1921 in Italy as a pure wooden sailing ship with no engine to serve as a cargo ship. She still runs cargo trips across the Atlantic today.

The ship maintains a full ocean classification for historical sail training and charter vessel. She actively sails 6-7 months in the Mediterranean and spent last winter crossing the Atlantic and sailing in the Caribbean.

This active sailing adventure in Italy is packed with phenomenal experiences. From sailing with a historic tall ship, hiking volcanos to immerse yourself in 6000-year old culture and exploring the beautiful archipelago which is under the protection of UNESCO World Heritage.

The volcanic islands of the Tyrrhenian Sea off the north coast of Sicily are characterised by wild, unspoilt nature. They are called the “Aeolian Islands” because, according to Greek legend, the god of the wind, Aeolus, once lived here.

The jewel in the Mediterranean has seven inhabited islands, and each one is different. From lovely green hills to seething craters, you will find a wide variety of unique natural landscapes in a very small space. In 2000 the archipelago of the Aeolian Islands was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Regular volcanic eruptions of the Stromboli offer a true natural spectacle, and the volcanic mountains and Mediterranean landscapes are a true hiking paradise.

Aeolian Islands

Although Lipari has approx. 5000 residents, you will find yourself in a typical Sicilian village. With one of the most beautiful archaeological museums in Italy and a picturesque old town with many small shops that are perfect for an afternoon stroll. Obsidian and pumice stone can be found around Monte Pilato and it is well worth taking a detour on the Vespa, offering hiking opportunities for different demands.

Known as the Green islands, Salina was “rebuilt’ in the 1970’s as an agricultural mainstay. There are numerous vineyards, the dessert wine – Malvasia delle Lipari and, of course, the capers, which are considered to be some of the best in the world. Hikers can walk to the highest peak of the archipelago through a beautiful pine and chestnut forests.

Vulcano The smell of Sulphur greets us as soon as we dock here. Until the 19th century, Sulphur and alum were mined only a few meters from the quay. Today, souvenir shops, spas, hotels and bars line the harbour and for those that want to, you can wallow in the Sulphur mud. The highlight of this island is certainly the two hour crater hike through the yellow Sulphur fumaroles.

Since ancient times the Stromboli volcano has been an orientation point for seafarers at night. The Stromboli erupts every 15-20 minutes. Depending on the magma levels in the chimney, the lava fountains are thrown several hundred meters above the crater rim.

The Crew “Haynes family”

Captain Ron Haynes grew up on the ship, moving onboard at only six days old.  He learned everything from traditional seamanship, diving and engineering from his father.  Since 1999, he took over the role as sole Captain making him second-generation sailing the Florette. He has participated in high profile races such as the Rolex Middle sea race and St. Barth’s bucket race.  In his 22 years of being Captain, Ron has been involved in sail training, kayaking, dive charters, marine biology seminars (to name a few) and has taken over 10,000 people safely to sea. He is half Bavarian, half English and speaks fluent Italian.

Nicole Haynes, Ron’s wife, has sailed onboard since 1999.  She served 7 years in the Canadian Navy training as Officer of the Watch and as a rescue diver. Onboard Florette, she runs the “ship” as mate and is known to be a fantastic cook.

Their daughters Jaden and Amber live full time onboard. They are “ship” schooled with a tutor through an online school in the UK. They have the luxury of family, a simple ship’s life and travel all rolled into one.

The crew is made up of qualified and very experienced seaman. We also have a private tutor aboard and take volunteers.

Last but not least is the ship’s dog Lucy –  a loveable Spanish water dog.