Ocean Crossing: Namibia – Azores on the Barque EUROPA

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A 50-day sailing voyage from Walvis Bay to Horta

The crew on board is international, so English is predominantly spoken.

It's time to head home! After several exciting years full of adventure, EUROPA will end her Antarctic season in Walvis Bay, Namibia, in spring 2027. From there, EUROPA sets course for a voyage across the Atlantic Ocean, which will finish in the Netherlands. Come aboard for the first leg of this crossing – from Namibia to the Azores.

This voyage takes you on a real adventure across the South Atlantic, where endless horizons and steady trade winds carry us towards our destination, Horta. The boundless Atlantic Ocean. There is no land in sight for miles around; the horizon becomes your only constant – a vast, ever-changing canvas of deep blues by day and a star-studded sky by night. The solitude of the open sea is a deeply impressive experience; it offers a rare opportunity to switch off from everyday life and find a new, intense connection with the people on board.

Embarking in Namibia

Embarking in Namibia is a truly unique experience. Picture the golden hues of the African sun, the warm, sandy air and the rising temperatures of the desert landscapes.

The barque EUROPA awaits you in Walvis Bay – a coastal town with a local airport that has good connections to Namibia's international airport, allowing you a smooth journey to the ship. Walvis Bay is also the ideal starting point for exploring the wonders of Namibia.

Arrive a few days early and enjoy unforgettable excursions, such as to Etosha National Park or to Sossusvlei in the desert in the south of Namibia. The red sand dunes are a breathtaking sight – an absolute must before you put to sea.

Arrival in the Azores

Land ahoy! Arriving in Horta after a 50-day ocean crossing from Namibia is a true moment of triumph! After weeks at sea – in which new skills were learned, friendships were made and the peaceful atmosphere of life on the ocean was enjoyed – island life in the Azores offers a fascinating contrast. It is the ideal place to look back together on this unforgettable adventure.

Stroll through the historic old town of Horta, known for its picturesque views, or visit the famous “Peter’s Café Sport”, a meeting place for sailors from all over the world. Horta is the perfect base for exploring the Azores once you have stepped ashore after your adventure on board!

Route

After leaving Namibia behind, EUROPA makes use of the south-easterly trade winds that prevail in this part of the Atlantic. These steady winds fill the sails and carry the ship westwards to the remote island of St Helena. From St Helena, the voyage continues across the open ocean, crossing the Equator. The route is shaped by the rhythm of the wind and the sea: the days are filled with the sound of sails catching the wind, while the nights are lit by the starry skies of the southern – and later the northern – hemisphere.

Special Features

The watch system

The EUROPA is operated around the clock, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. As a manoeuvre can be called at any time, the crew must organise itself and sail on a watch system. This means that part of the crew is always awake and sailing the ship, while the rest of the crew is off duty. The watches change after four hours.

The Barque EUROPA is a so-called sail training ship, and as such every participant becomes part of this crew and sails as a trainee. This means that everyone on board is introduced to the safety procedures and that everyone is expected to take an active part in the watch system. Active participation in all sailing manoeuvres is what makes these voyages so special. How far you are involved in everything depends on your own interest and physical fitness.

On deck, you work closely with the permanent crew. During a watch you assist the permanent crew for four hours and then have eight hours off. The watches are named after the colours of the Dutch flag. During a watch, you have to take the helm, stand lookout and help with setting and taking in the sails.

Requirements for the voyage:

Health certificate and health and international travel insurance
A valid passport. Please ask your consulate about visa regulations for the countries to be visited, and make sure you have adequate vaccinations for these countries yourself
Personal medication
For work on deck: waterproof shoes with non-slip soles
Swimwear and sandals
Clothing for every kind of weather

For clothing, the “onion system” is recommended, in which several layers are worn on top of one another. Bear in mind that it can get cold at sea, especially at night.

Unsuitable on board

Your bunk has a duvet with cover, a pillow with pillowcase and a bed sheet.
You do not need to bring a sleeping bag.
Towels are provided.
Suitcases are unsuitable for stowing in the cabin. Please bring a holdall or a kit bag instead.
It is not permitted to bring large quantities of food or alcoholic drinks on board.
Valuables