Sail from Azores to Scotland
Set sail on a fourteen-day offshore adventure from São Miguel in the Azores to Scotland. This crossing aboard Osprey, our Beneteau Oceanis 45, is designed for sailors who want real North Atlantic miles, structured watchkeeping, hands-on deck work, and practical experience in genuine offshore conditions. As a Yachtmaster qualifying passage, it is perfectly suited to anyone who wishes to build sea miles, improve navigation skills, or gain confidence in long-range sailing.
Departure from Ponta Delgada, São Miguel
The adventure begins in Ponta Delgada on São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores. Before departure there is time to explore the working harbour, volcanic coastline, and sheltered approaches that make the Azores one of the most interesting mid-Atlantic sailing regions. Ponta Delgada is an established starting point for northbound routes and provides an excellent launch point for the crossing towards northern waters.
North Atlantic Crossing
Once clear of the island, Osprey follows a north-easterly track into open water. The early stages of the crossing offer steady ocean swells, reliable breezes, and uninterrupted horizons that suit consistent watchkeeping and navigation practice. As the course climbs further north, temperatures cool and weather patterns become more changeable. This section of the crossing provides valuable experience in reading forecasts, setting appropriate sail plans, and maintaining good boat speed in varying conditions.
Approach to the West Coast of Scotland
The landfall on the west coast of Scotland is a marked contrast to the open Atlantic. The coastline features sea lochs, rocky islands, and tidal gates that require careful attention to pilotage and timing. Marine wildlife is often present in these waters, and the region carries a strong maritime history, including traditional harbours, lighthouses, and local fishing communities. The approach provides an excellent transition from offshore conditions to coastal navigation.
Sail the passage, not just the miles
This is an involved crossing, and you will be part of the entire process: passage planning, provisioning, boat preparation, and the full watch system that keeps Osprey moving. Our skippers are RYA Instructors, and they support both experienced sailors and those who are newer to offshore conditions. There are opportunities to helm, trim, navigate, and gain the practical understanding that only a long North Atlantic crossing can offer.
Dates
16th April 2027: Azores to Scotland, 14 days for £1895
Price
The price is £1895 per person and, as with all our trips, all onboard expenses are included with no hidden costs or surprises. The price includes:
- Onboard accommodation;
- All onboard meals and snacks;
- Fuel and gas;
- Skipper/guide;
- Marina and harbour fees;
- Bedding (sheet and pillowcase).
Optional items not included in the price: oilskins hire (£3.50 per item per day), sleeping bags (£25 per stay), final cleaning service (£12.50 per person), visitor fees for museums or attractions, flights, travel insurance, car hire, transfers to and from the start or end destinations, meals in restaurants, and other personal expenses, etc.
Beneteau Oceanis 45 Osprey
You will be sailing the Beneteau Oceanis 45 Osprey. Built in 2017, this sailing yacht offers comfortable accommodation for a maximum crew of six, providing a straightforward and practical setup for the crossing. She features four double cabins and a convertible saloon, along with two toilets and showers. Her interior is spacious and well laid out, and her sailing characteristics make her an enjoyable and capable boat for longer passages.
Osprey has recently undergone a comprehensive refit and is very well equipped for ocean passages. Her equipment now includes an extensive offshore kit, a brand-new 6 kW Panda generator, Starlink Internet, and numerous additional upgrades that support performance, safety and comfort at sea.
With a deck plan designed for easy manoeuvring and features such as the drop-down rear seat that transforms into a bathing platform, she provides both comfort and safety underway. With a capable crew and a solid, dependable design, Osprey is prepared for a competitive and confident crossing, combining the thrill of ocean sailing with steady performance across the Atlantic.
Preparing your journey
Our sailings are suitable for complete beginners as well as those with previous experience. Our skippers are RYA instructors with extensive sea time, and they will support you whatever your level, offering guidance and practical tips throughout. This is an involved passage and the crew will be part of the boat preparation, general running of life onboard and the watch system that make it happen.
If you have little-to-no experience, please email us at admin@gowestsailing.com so we can chat through sea life with you. We can advise you on what you should pack and bring on board and hire waterproof garments typically worn by sailors. We will let you know everything you need to get to and from the boat based on our previous experience. We strongly recommend travel insurance.
Book your spot below or phone us if you have any questions +44(0)1475 789837, you can also chat to us on WhatsApp.
