from Dunkirk to the harbour festival "Armada Rouen" in Rouen
INMARIS Windjammer Worldwide 
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Highlights of the voyage
* Travel aboard a historic four-masted schooner to the opening of the "Rouen Armada"
* Experience sailing on the English Channel as well as a scenic voyage up the Seine
* Lend a hand with the sail manoeuvres and discover the traditions of life aboard a tall ship
* Enjoy long June evenings on deck and the changing views of the French coast
* The voyage ends in Rouen, where medieval lanes and a magnificent cathedral await you behind the riverside promenade
Enjoy life aboard a tall ship and make the most of the time for explorations ashore
Trip description:
Board the Santa Maria Manuela in Dunkirk and set off on a voyage along the northern French coast; you'll reach Rouen in time for the opening of the "Armada" – a spectacular gathering of tall ships from around the world.
Dunkirk, situated on the French North Sea coast, is a town where maritime heritage, Flemish character and wide sandy beaches come together.
Harbour and waterfront bear witness to the long connection with the sea, whilst the historic belfry, lively squares and inviting cafés convey an impression of local life.
A visit to the maritime museums reveals stories of fishing, trade and seafaring as well as the significant events of the 1940 evacuation.
Beyond the harbour, Malo-les-Bains beckons with an expansive beach and a busy promenade – ideal for a stroll by the sea or a relaxed meal with views over the water.
Explore the coastal dunes, sample regional specialities or discover the landscapes that have shaped this part of French Flanders. With its blend of history, coastal scenery and the warm hospitality of the north, Dunkirk is a rewarding destination.
We leave the seaport of Dunkirk behind and set course south-west through the English Channel towards the mouth of the Seine.
Familiarise yourself with life on board, savour the long June days and lend a hand alongside the crew – whether setting sails, learning knots or taking the helm.
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 northeast.
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.
Over the course of four nights the ship becomes a familiar home.
You might chat with the crew about the route, find out what is happening on the bridge, or stay outside after dinner to enjoy the evening light.
There is no need to plan every hour when the real pleasure lies in the journey itself.
The voyage takes on a new rhythm as soon as we enter the Seine and head upriver towards Rouen.
Green banks, villages and wooded slopes replace the wide horizon, offering an unforgettable backdrop as we approach this historic city.
Our voyage ends with the start of the "Armada" – so after disembarkation you're perfectly positioned to explore the festivities on your own.
Rouen looks back on a rich maritime and cultural heritage; the historic old town with its half-timbered houses, cobbled lanes and magnificent Gothic cathedral forms the vibrant heart of the capital of Normandy.
The city is closely linked with the Seine and a centuries-old tradition of maritime trade.
During the "Rouen Armada" – an event at which imposing tall ships gather along the quaysides for ten days full of festivities, concerts and fireworks – it becomes one of the world's most significant destinations for sailing ships.
With its blend of medieval architecture, artistic heritage and a lively atmosphere along the riverfront, Rouen offers an incomparable setting for the visit of the *Santa Maria Manuela*.
The city unites history with dynamism; its close connection to the Seine lends it a distinctive character and makes arriving under sail a very special experience.
weather conditions
June generally brings mild weather and long days to northern France.
Expect a mixture of sunshine, cloud and occasional rain; the sea breeze can make it feel cooler on deck – especially in the evening hours.
On the Seine it is often more sheltered from the wind than on the open English Channel.
Pack clothing in layers, plus a warm fleece jacket, a weatherproof jacket, comfortable and non-slip shoes, and sunglasses and sun cream.
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
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More InformationMap from OpenStreetMap. When the map is displayed, data is transmitted to the provider.
More InformationGaff schooner
225 feet
