from La Spezia to the Maritime Festival in Sète
INMARIS Windjammer Worldwide 
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Highlights of the voyage
* Visit the famous villages of the Cinque Terre and Sète
* Cross the open Mediterranean aboard a historic tall ship
* Get hands-on with the sailing – from setting sails to helming
* Experience the charm of the French Mediterranean coast
Trip description:
We begin our voyage in La Spezia, surrounded by steep hills and close to the famous Cinque Terre coast. Together with other tall ships that have taken part in the La Spezia maritime festival, we sail westwards along the Mediterranean coast, cross the Gulf of Lion and reach Sète – a town known for its canals, seafood and artistic vibrancy.
Join the Santa Maria Manuela on a three-day sailing voyage that takes you from the colourful Ligurian villages of the Cinque Terre to the lively port of Sète – host of the "Escale à Sète" maritime festival.
This route combines open-sea sailing with cultural discoveries, all aboard a historic Portuguese tall ship.
Nestled between green hills and the blue Mediterranean, La Spezia is an appealing harbour town with a rich cultural heritage.
The tree-lined waterfront promenade invites relaxed walks by the water, while the lively town centre beckons with historic squares, cosy cafés and a market full of regional produce.
La Spezia is the main gateway to the famous Cinque Terre – five colourful villages nestled into the cliffs of the Italian Riviera, a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
History and culture enthusiasts will find the Naval Museum in La Spezia, honouring the region's significant maritime tradition.
The strategic location also allows easy access to other notable destinations, such as Portovenere with its picturesque houses and the imposing Church of San Pietro perched above the sea, as well as the charming town of Lerici with its mediaeval castle and tranquil beaches.
Whether as a starting point for coastal adventures or as a place to savour the relaxed way of life – La Spezia is an Italian gem waiting to be discovered.
The captain welcomes you "Welcome aboard the Santa Maria Manuela!"
Relaxed time in the evenings on board
Help the crew handle the sails, try your hand at the helm or simply relax on deck and watch the sea stretch to the horizon.
Participation is entirely voluntary, and our crew will be on hand to assist you at all times.
There are many opportunities to lend a hand. Help the crew set the sails, take the helm or keep watch on the horizon as the ship heads north-east. No sailing experience is required, and participation is always voluntary.
Between manoeuvres you can find a favourite spot on deck, browse a book or chat unhurriedly with other guests.
Away from everyday bustle there is time to notice the smaller things: the changing colours of the water, the sound of wind in the rigging and the first lights appearing along the coast.
Whether you want to get hands-on or prefer to relax and watch the activity – there's room on board for active learning as well as quiet moments of reflection.
Our voyage ends in Sète
Sète is a port town on the French south coast, known for its close connection to the sea. A visit during "Escale à Sète" – the town's maritime festival – adds a special touch to the stay, as traditional boats, music and events celebrate the maritime heritage.
The town is built around canals, giving it a unique character and often drawing comparisons to a "mini Venice". Walking through the centre, visitors discover fish and seafood markets, cosy cafés and bridges connecting the different neighbourhoods.
Sète's connection to the Mediterranean is also reflected in the local cuisine. Oysters from the Étang de Thau, grilled fish and regional specialities such as "Tielle Sétoise" (a pie with octopus filling) are frequently found on menus.
The maritime festival brings together ships from around the world; along the harbour quays, music, exhibitions and crafts create a lively atmosphere and offer the opportunity to experience Sète's maritime culture first-hand.
weather conditions
Mid-April sailing from La Spezia to Sète (France) typically brings mild spring days with daytime temperatures between 15 and 19 °C.
Expect a mix of sunshine, cloud and occasional rain.
Wind can be brisk, and on deck it may feel cooler. Layered clothing is advisable, along with a windproof and waterproof jacket, particularly for time on deck in the mornings and evenings.
Embrace the adventure of traditional seafaring and experience a very special sailing voyage aboard the "Santa Maria Manuela"!
And if you have any questions: we look forward to hearing from you 🙂
Your INMARIS Team
Map from OpenStreetMap. When the map is displayed, data is transmitted to the provider.
More InformationMap from OpenStreetMap. When the map is displayed, data is transmitted to the provider.
More InformationGaff schooner
225 feet
