19-02-2025
04-04-2025
days
4
€ 5.945
available
Ocean & equator crossing Cape Town – Sint Maarten
In the summer of 2023, the Clipper Stad Amsterdam set off on a two-year world tour. Adventurous travelers and fans of the Clipper can join parts of the world tour for unforgettable sailing adventures.
Sail with us on this voyage across the Atlantic Ocean from Cape Town, via Saint Helena, to the Windward Islands with Sint Maarten as the final destination. This sailing adventure starts in the Southern Hemisphere on February 20 and concludes over 40 days later in the Northern Hemisphere. A short stop is planned at the remote island of Saint Helena around 14 days into the voyage. Depending on the winds and weather conditions, the ship might anchor at one of the stunning islands in the Windward Islands before reaching Sint Maarten. Although this stop is not guaranteed, the possibility of exploring a tropical paradise adds an element of excitement and anticipation to the voyage.
Experience the rhythm of the ocean and tides on this extraordinary voyage, sail with the wind, and create unforgettable memories with the crew. Whether you are an experienced sailor or a beginner, this trip has something for everyone. Hoist the sails, embrace the spirit of adventure, and embark on a unique voyage from Cape Town to Sint Maarten aboard a majestic tall ship.
BOOK NOWThe Route
On Thursday morning, February 20, the Clipper begins her long voyage from the Southern Hemisphere to the Northern Hemisphere across the Atlantic Ocean. From Cape Town, the Clipper sets course for Saint Helena, the island where Napoleon spent the last 6 years of his life in exile, 1700 nautical miles from Cape Town.
On open water
During the crossing, the Clipper sails over the deep blue waters of the vast ocean, sometimes accompanied by curious dolphins or seabirds.
Join the Crew
This sailing trip is ideal for those seeking a blend of adventure, historical exploration, and practical sailing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a novice, this voyage offers something for everyone. So, hoist the sails, embrace the spirit of adventure, and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime voyage from Cape Town to Sint Maarten on a majestic clipper ship.
Saint Helena – Sint Maarten
After about two weeks at sea, the Stad Amsterdam will stop at Saint Helena for a visit before continuing the voyage towards the Caribbean. After more than two weeks of sailing, the vastness of the ocean will give way to tropical islands as the Windward Islands come into view. Hopefully, we can make a short stop at one of the beautiful Windward Islands before docking at our final destination, Sint Maarten.
Equatorial Crossing
As the ship crosses the equator, prepare for a time-honored maritime tradition—the King Neptune ceremony. This playful and festive event celebrates the crossing, where King Neptune himself may make an appearance to initiate those who are crossing the equator for the first time. It’s a joyous occasion filled with camaraderie and laughter, marking a memorable moment of the voyage.
Hands-on sailing and craftsmanship
This sailing trip is not just about the destinations but also about the trip itself. As a member of the crew, you’ll have ample opportunities to engage in the upkeep and maintenance of the vessel. Participate in essential tasks such as rigging work, oiling, and painting, and hone your craftsmanship skills under the guidance of seasoned sailors. This hands-on experience is invaluable, fostering a deep connection with the ship and your fellow crew members.
Weather and Wind
In February and March, you will encounter warm, humid conditions with trade winds coming from the east as you sail from Cape Town to Sint Maarten. During the transition from the Southern to the Northern Hemisphere, winds and ocean currents may vary, and there is a chance of tropical showers.
Want to learn more about the destinations along the way? Keep reading below!
Sailing & Adventure
Immerse yourself in the sailing experience by actively participating in crew activities.
You are invited to work alongside the crew during their watches. Whether assisting with navigation, learning the art of sail handling, or participating in other aspects of seamanship, this hands-on experience adds a unique dimension to your sailing adventure. What could be more beautiful than standing lookout with nothing but the sea around you? It’s a unique experience to feel small and insignificant in the overwhelming nature. Gaze into the waves, enjoy the vast ocean, and perhaps spot a few whales which are frequently seen in this area.
Besides sailing, there are plenty of other activities! We also recommend you to assist the crew, for instance, in maintenance, to truly experience life on board a sailing ship.
An impression of a day at sea
| Red watch | |
| 00:00 | The red watch is expected on deck |
| 02:00 | At sea, it’s truly dark: behold more stars than ever before |
| 04:00 | End of red watch: enjoy a few hours of sleep |
| 11:30 | A fresh lunch is served in the longroom |
| 12:00 | Report to the deck: the red watch begins |
| 13:00 | The crew is eager to teach you all about sailing and navigation |
| 15:00 | Coffee tea break |
| 16:00 | End of the red watch, white watch takes over |
| 17:00 | Time for relaxation with a book or music |
| 18:00 | The dinner buffet is open |
| 19:00 | Daily briefing by the captain in the longroom |
| 20:00 | Witness a spectacular sunset on the open sea |
Practical Information
EMBARKATION
Wednesday February 19, 2025 at 17.00 uur in Cape Town, South Africa.
DEBARKATION
Friday April 4, 2025 at 10.00 uur in Sint Maarten, Caribbean
Price 3 person cabin € 5.945,- p.p.
Price 2 person cabin € 6.995,- p.p.
Price 1 person cabin € 10.492,50
There is a 50% discount for youth up to and including 25 years.
This discount is calculated based on the price for a shared 3-person cabin.
Are you interested in a cabin with a double bed?
The surcharge is € 250,- (depending on availability).
The price includes:
· Breakfast with coffee, tea and juices;
· Morning coffee;
· Lunch buffet with coffee, tea and juices ;
· Afternoon coffee;
· Dinner buffet with coffee, tea and juices;
· Fresh fruit;
· Harbor and port dues.
ADDITIONAL COSTS:
• Flights and transfers;
• Additional drinks & snacks on board;
• Other personal expenses.
The guests and the crew will eat together in the longroom. Meals will be served in self service buffet style in two shifts (in accordance with the watch system).
Meals schedule:
07:30 and 08:00 breakfast
10:00 SmoKo (coffee break)
11:30 and 12:00 lunch
15:00 SmoKo (coffee break)
17:30 and 18:00 dinner
On adventurous sailing trips breakfast, lunch and dinner are included. Juices, coffee, tea and milk during these meals, 2 coffee breaks and fresh fruits are also free of charge. Any other refreshments like soda’s, alcoholic beverages, candy bars and other snacks will be put on your personal bar tab. Your bar tab for these extras can be settled at the end of the trip.
Breakfast:
Bread, cold cuts, yoghurt, muesli, sweet spreads, eggs, juices, coffee, tea and milk.
Lunch:
Bread, cold cuts, sweet spreads, soup or a warm snack and a salad, juices, coffee, tea and milk.
Dinner:
We serve simple and nutritious dinners such as various kinds of pasta, Indian curries, fish and stews. All meals contain fresh vegetables.
The meals described may vary depending on the weather conditions & local provisions supplied.
All guests are obliged to have a valid* passport with them on board Clipper Stad Amsterdam. An Identity Card is not sufficient.
Always inquire about the rules for the validity period of your passport for the country you are traveling to. In many countries, a passport is required to be valid for several months beyond the date of entry/departure.
VISUM
It is crucial and your own responsibility to check and arrange visa requirements for the countries you are traveling to and traveling from.
The best way to determine if you need a visa to enter a specific country is by contacting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The ship has modern communications equipment that allows the use of phones and e-mail on board. The satellite system onboard provides limited Internet access via Wi-Fi. Please note that the connection speed may be slower than that of land-based services. All guests will receive a complimentary allocation for daily use (200MB), with the option to purchase additional data if needed. However, please be aware that satellite connectivity may be intermittent or unavailable at times, and uninterrupted access to the Internet cannot be guaranteed.
Friends and family at home can always track the live location of the ship through our website.
SHIP’S DOCTOR
When booking your trip, we request you to fill out a health declaration. If you provide any specific details here, the ship’s doctor may contact you to discuss your situation. Based on observations or strong suspicions of a very limited physical condition and associated risks, the ship’s doctor may advise the captain to exclude you as a passenger from the voyage. The final decision rests with the captain. The ship is equipped with a (small) hospital. Upon boarding, our ship’s doctor may ask you again to provide him with as much information as possible about your medication use and/or physical limitations, so that he can take this into account.
ARE YOU 75 YEARS OR OLDER AT THE START OF THE TRIP?
In addition to having good health, we also want to emphasize to our guests aged 75 and older the importance of having good muscle strength and balance.
Only if you are 75 years or older and can answer the following questions with a yes, there is a chance that you will be considered suitable to join the voyage. After registration, an additional health questionnaire will follow.
Can you stand well on one leg without losing your balance?
Can you perform a few deep knee bends?
Are you able to walk on a steeply inclined deck on a ship that is moving vigorously?
Is the muscle strength in your hands good: can you open a tin can by hand without any problems?
Given the above, our ship’s doctor will invite you for a video call (WhatsApp, Signal, Zoom, or any other mutually agreed platform) after registration for the trip. During this call, the doctor will assess your condition and may ask you to perform a few tests.
Doctor onboard
There is a doctor on board on multi-day sailing trips who can provide medication against seasickness. Your first point of contact on board for your medical inquiries, among other things, is the ship’s doctor.
SAFETY
During the welcome speech, the captain and the designated crew at their muster stations will brief you on safety aboard. Please be aware that the ship is in motion, which can cause items to fall, shift, and doors to close. It is advisable to secure your belongings, keep doors closed, and never hold onto a door frame.
Some countries require proof of vaccination for travellers wishing to enter or exit the country.
Travel requirements are updated often, so we recommend always checking the latest entry requirements before your trip.
We would like to remind you that you should always stay informed about and adhere to the travel advisories applicable to travel to and from the ship. These travels are your own responsibility.
It is recommended that you arrive at the port of embarkation one day prior to the scheduled embarkation. This precaution is advised because the ship cannot delay its departure in the event of travel disruptions. In addition, traveling to our next port of call may not be feasible due to long trips at sea or remote islands.
On your embarkation day, while the ship is in port, we provide the opportunity to drop off your luggage in the morning. Should you wish to take advantage of this service, please notify us in advance ([email protected]) to ensure that access to the ship is arranged before the official embarkation time.
Please keep in mind that unfavorable weather conditions (e.g., lack or excess wind) may cause the captain to decide to sail on engine power, enter or exit a port earlier/later.
Temperature
Daytime: average between 17°C and 27°C (Cape Town).
Nighttime: cooler, with temperatures that can drop to around 15°C to 20°C.
January is summer in Cape Town, meaning it is warm and dry. This is one of the hottest months of the year with plenty of sunshine and little rain.
Sint Maarten
Daytime: average between 26°C en 29°C (79°F – 84°F).
Nighttime: average between 22°C en 24°C (72°F – 75°F).
The weather is usually warm and pleasant with little rainfall.
Wind Strength and Direction
In January, you can benefit from the southeast trade winds with speeds ranging from 15 to 25 knots.
Further west and south, the southeast trade winds diminish. Near the southwest coast of Africa, the winds often shift to the southwest and become stronger, especially near the Cape of Good Hope, where stormy conditions can occur.
Level 4 trip: considered an ocean crossing. Expect moderate to severe ship movement due to prevailing winds and ocean currents.
Clipper Stad Amsterdam is a member of SGR. Within the limits of the SGR-guarantee arrangement, the multi-day trips published on this internet site are covered by the SGR-guarantee. This legally required guarantee means that consumers are assured that their prepaid travel money will be refunded if the other party (the shipping company) due to financial insolvency cannot fulfill the agreed performance. The travel prices on the website include a contribution to SGR.
Travel Insurance
It is mandatory for all guests onboard to possess personal travel insurance during overnight sailing trips. The required insurance must cover medical expenses, accidents, and repatriation, in accordance with Article 13.9 of the General Terms and Conditions.
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ARE YOU 75 YEARS OR OLDER AT THE START OF THE TRIP?
In addition to having a good physical condition, it is important that you have good muscle strength and a sense of balance. For our guests aged 75 and older, only if you can answer the following questions with a yes, there is a greater chance that you will be found suitable to sail. Can you stand well on one leg without losing your balance? Can you do a few deep squats? Are you able to walk across a sloping deck on a heavily moving ship? Is the muscle strength in your hands good? After registering for the trip, our ship’s doctor will invite you for a video call (WhatsApp, Signal, Zoom or another mutually agreed platform). During this conversation, the doctor will assess your condition and may ask you to perform a few tests.