MonTserrat ECo Adventure - sail between Antigua and Montserrat
This is an unique opportunity to participate in sailing an ocean racing yacht to this beautiful and exciting Island and to stay as long as you want and tailor your very own adventure.
[Alternatively if you are based on Montserrat and
would like to visit Antigua for a period then the booking allows this
flexibility]
Sailing regularly most weeks - please give us a call or enquire using the form below and we will confirm your dates and take your booking.
Further sailings will be scheduled subject to demand and whole boat private charters are available.
This is a fantastic adventure incorporating a taste of
sailing between Falmouth Harbour and Little Bay in Montserrat with
ample time to experience the spectacular nature and scenery including
the Volcano.
Guests are encouraged to take an active part in all aspects of sailing the yacht and full instruction will be given.
The trip will appeal to sailors and novices alike. Ondeck's
Skippers and crew are experienced in taking groups with varying degrees
of experience across the Atlantic Ocean – so you will be in good hands.
We depart Antigua [Falmouth] at 0800*
with the downwind sail to Montserrat taking approximately 3-4 hours.
There will be a maximum of 15 guests plus our professional crew
We depart Montserrat at 1300* with the upwind return sail to Antigua taking approximately 4-5 hours.
The sail is part of the adventure!
The Adventure has been designed to allow you the flexibility to spend a number of days on Montserrat partaking in the many unique activities on offer including some wonderful Island tours, trekking in the rainforest with experienced guides, horseback riding, diving and snorkeling in pristine waters, visiting the Montserrat Volcano Observatory, boat trips to Plymouth to see the old capital now largely submerged beneath the flows or simply relaxing on the beach.
After that it’s time for some wonderful Montserratian
hospitality in the welcoming bars [rum shops not wine bars!] and
restaurants available. The hospitality is truly unique and the warmth
of the people is second to none… it really is how the Caribbean used to
be
There is a wide range of accommodation available from hostels
to guest houses, a modern hotel and some great villas all at very
reasonable prices and all with wonderful views of the volcano and the
ocean.
*Please note that departure times are approximate
Costs:
The cost of a return trip is $189.00 US
Ondeck will assist with all immigration formalities.
The Yachts
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Ondeck's Farr 65s are round the World racing yachts. They have competed one circumnavigation and countless Atlantic crossings and are solid, safe and exhilarating boats to sail.
The wide cockpit makes a perfect platform for enjoying the scenic passage, and the galley allows for cold drinks and food to be served with ease. The yachts have two toilet facilities and are certificated to MCA category 1 rating allowing them to cross oceans with paying guests. |
All photography is courtesy of the Montserrat Tourist Board - For more information on Montserrat go to www.visitmontserrat.com 
†
FAQs
How long does it take?
Around 4 hours to Montserrat and 5 hours to Antigua (depending on conditions)
What time do we leave and arrive?
Depart Falmouth 0800 arriving Montserrat 1200.
Depart Montserrat 1300 arriving Falmouth 1800.
(All times approximate)
Can I do the trip in a day?
Yes, particularly if you enjoy sailing. You will get a close view of the island from the water and plenty of instructional sailing. However, you will get less than one hour on Montserrat so we recommend you spend at least one night on the island to better sample all that is on offer.
Is there a luggage limit?
Not usually but please advise in advance if you have over 50 kilos or 120lbs of luggage.
Will it be rough?
The yachts are
well equipped to handle any swell, however on rare
occasions, if we feel the crossing may be particularly
uncomfortable we may have to cancel the trip at short notice, at
which time you will be offered an alternative date for departure.
Where do we get picked up and dropped off?
Antigua Yacht Club Marina in Falmouth. The Ondeck office is clearly
visible from the car park. In Montserrat we berth at Little Bay and
transfers will normally be made in a small motor boat.
Do I need sailing experience?
None necessary, we take a lot of novices sailing and will spend time teaching aspects of sailing if you are interested.
How fit do you have to be?
You
need to be generally mobile, and should advise us of any medical issues
prior to sailing. If you can walk up a short flight of stairs,
you are more than fit enough for the crossing.
Will I get seasick?
If you are prone to motion sickness, sea sickness tablets taken a couple of hours before sailing can help.
Do you supply drinks and food?
Water is
provided, other snacks and drinks are available to purchase. You are
welcome to bring your own food and drink on board. Alcohol is permitted
though not excessive consumption during the voyage
How do I book accommodation or tours in Montserrat/Antigua.
We can assist and recommend hotels, guest houses and villa accommodation
The Montserrat tourist board is an excellent source of information www.visitmontserrat.com †
Can I book one way?
Yes and this is just half the return cost
Is the booking flexible?
Yes we will change
your travel dates at no cost with due notice (96hours), this is subject
to availability. When booking you can choose to stay in
Antigua/Montserrat as long as you like subject to return trip
availability
How can I pay?
Mastercard, Visa, local cheque Cash $EC; $US GBP £
Clearing customs and immigration in Antigua and in Montserrat?
If we can get your passport details the day before then we can pre
clear customs and immigration. Otherwise we will clear out on the
morning of departure. Once cleared, your documentation will be
returned to you.
If we arrive back after customs and immigration has closed then we
may need to keep your passports to clear you in the following morning
Is there an age limit?
No, but passengers with young children should discuss in advance
What do I need to wear?
Sunhats, sunscreen, flat non marking shoes or bare feet
Is it safe to visit Montserrat?
Whilst the
volcano is still active, Montserrat is still very safe to visit and
life carries on as normal. The Northern section of the island is
the designated safe area and is physically protected from any
heightened activity from the Soufriere Hills Volcano by the Centre
Hills mountain range. The Montserrat Volcano Observatory (www.mvo.ms
†) is one of the most modern in the world and
the scientists there monitor the Soufrière Hills Volcano
continuously and regularly advises the Government and the public about
volcanic activity. The southern part of the island is designated
an exclusion zone and is currently off-limits.
† Please note that Ondeck is not responsible for the content of external sites.
