Atlantic Crossing Caribbean - Europe (2 Spots left)

Sint Maarten, Netherlands

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Ocean Nomads
  • Email address verified
6 reviews
Mar 30 - May 7, 2025
Group size: 1 - 14
Atlantic Crossing Caribbean - Europe (2 Spots left)
Sint Maarten, Netherlands

Ocean Nomads
  • Email address verified
6 reviews

Mar 30 - May 7, 2025
Group size: 1 - 14

About this trip

Sail the Atlantic Ocean on a Classic Schooner

Travel By Sail from Caribbean to Europe

- March 30 to May 7, 2025 (38 Days)

- An opportunity to sail a Classic Schooner and learn from the best

- Stop in Bermuda & Azores (weather depending)

- Offshore Sailing Adventure

- Mile Builder 

- Support Low Carbon Travel


The Adventure

Are the waves really as high as in the movies? What would it feel like to see land after weeks on the water? Are the tropics really like you imagine it to be? There is only one way to find out: to go for it! Discover what it feels like to wake up on the ocean, breathe the ocean air, have the wind in your hair, navigate by the stars, live simple and resourceful, and be eye to eye with dolphins. Day in, day out…

This is THE classic bucketlist adventure and we are so excited to team up with SV Twister again.


If you have been dreaming about sailing across the Atlantic, love a classic Schooner, and have a high standard for safety, and a schedule all set up for you, this trip is IT! 

ROUTE

The ocean is the real destination of this trip. But let’s be honest, the Azores islands are pure paradise!  

We set sail from St. Maarten in the Caribbean and possibly but weather depending we make a stop in Bermuda.  St. Maarten to Bermuda are about 900 Nautical Miles. From Bermuda to the Azores are 1810 Miles. May we go directly from St. Maarten to the Azores this will be about 2300 Nautical Miles, covering a large part of the Atlantic Ocean. From the Azores to the Netherlands it’s about 1500 Nautical Miles. Weather depending we may make a stop in Brest (France), or the UK or even Galicia, Spain. The arrival destination is the Netherlands. 


WEATHER

As sailors, we’re after wind. South of the Azores High the clockwise system have a favourable wind direction bringing boats from Europe to the Caribbean. Trade winds are the prevailing pattern in lower latitudes of 20 degrees north of the Equator (when the butter melts). The trade winds cover a broad belt from West Africa to the Caribbean. They are called ‘trade winds’ because back in the days, these winds made it possible to bring goods to other places for trading.

Since the wind generally comes from the north-east and boats head direction south west, the wind comes mostly straight from behind. It makes the journey a down winder.

During a typical crossing, the trade winds are 3 to 5 Beaufort. There can be days with light wind, days with no wind and periods where the wind speed reaches up to 6 or even 7 Beaufort. 

From the Caribbean to Europe the wind is less consistent than sailing from Europe to the Caribbean, and the Atlantic crossing is usually more intense, and adventurous. The main consideration is to not get stuck in the Azores High, where there are areas of very little wind. This is why we may choose to go via Bermuda (instead of straight to the Azores from the Caribbean) since it’s a more reliable wind route.

The Vessel: Classic Schooner SV Twister

Sailing Vessel Twister is a ship of +100 years that still sails the oceans, safely! Isn’t that amazing in itself? No plastic push buttons or winches on this vessel.


She’s beautiful. She’s solid. She’s big. She’s spacious. She’s super comfortable. She’s got soul. She lasts. She has proven her worth and seaworthiness. 


Sailing ship Twister is a schooner built in 1902, with an impressive story to tell. Originally a fishing boat built out of wood, fifty-five years later, her wooden hull was replaced for a steel one so she could continue to fish. She now features all safety equipment, modern comforts, and all licences and certificates to take you safely offshore. She sails under the highly regarded Dutch flag.

Her current owners are driven to sail her far, and with purpose. The aim is to facilitate memorable expeditions that people will treasure for life, and contribute towards a better planet.


Last year, we sailed with her around the Atlantic, conditions ranging between champagne sailing and 9 Beaufort. The only thing we broke were two plates. Given the success of the last expedition, we can now surely recommend her for your ocean crossing.


The size of the ship allows to bring more people together in a place. Through Twister you can experience offshore sailing as safely as possible. Twister focuses on safety and seamanship competence. Many certificates are obtained and complied with to pass the safety checks and requirements. This comes with a cost but the rewards are priceless. Teaming up with Twister allows us to combine professionalism, safety, and adventure, impact and community facilitation. 


Home port : Harlingen, Holland

Year built : 1902

Displacement : 88 tonnes

Length overall : 36m/118′

Draft : 2.8m/9’2″ Beam : 6.2m/20’3″ Rig : Schooner

Sail area : 332.5m/1090’8″

Number of sails : 6

Engine : Mercedes Benz 300 PK

Total number of berths : 22

Bathrooms : 2

A tour of SV Twister

Who's joining?

Professional Crew & Instruction

Twister is managed by a professional crew including a captain, first mate and one or two deckhands. This is required by law on a vessel this size. You’ll be in safe, qualified and experienced hands. This doesn’t mean you only sit back and relax (thought on this trip you can if you want). Generally voyages are hands-on voyage involving everyone in sailing and operation of our little floating village. 


There will also be a chef on board who will lead the food department.


Good to know

This trip is operated by SV Twister.

Ocean Nomads supports bringing cool people to the voyage but won't be present on board this time for the on board programme.


- Max 14 Passengers

- You don't need prior sailing experience. You'll be taught the ropes.

- Everyone on board will be in a watch team. Participation is encouraged and rewarding  but not mandatory. 

- If you’re looking to bring extra sports gear (like surfboards / kitesurf gear / diving gear / bicycles) Twister can facilitate to a certain extent. There is limited space so please ask permission in advance. Music instruments are always welcome.

- You're booking is auto-accepted but will still be reviewed by SV Twister & Fair Ferry to align expectations.


Feel free to contact us with any questions sending an email to [email protected]


How Ocean Nomads Supports:

Ocean Nomads helps you to be well prepared for this voyage.


When you book before March 5   with Ocean Nomads, you'll also get:

- Access to the Ocean Nomads Crew Course helps you to be prepared, pack, be safe, and be ready for offshore sailing (Valued 297 euro)

- Ocean Nomads Community Membership for more personal support, adventure friends and meeting those who sailed the Atlantic before (on Twister or other ships) (Valued 67 euro / year)


Total voyage costs 6100€ 3 person cabin and 7990€ for 2 person cabin


To reserve your spot:

 10 Euro deposit to reserve your spot via Ocean Nomads and claim the bonus goodies:)

Then, soon after you'll receive an invoice directly from SV Twister.


Atlantic Crossing voyages usually sell out quite some time in advance. If you're considering joining, do not wait too long;)

_________


Stories, Testimonials & Transformations

What does previous crew say?

Still smiling at the memories! Met – and still talking to – some lovely people. Refreshed my nautical skills (helming, navigation, astro identification, etc.) Shared some great experiences through conversation, music, stories, yoga, cooking together, seeing ocean wildlife, and so much more! - Richard - UK


This was one of the most epic experiences of my life so far, and I can tell it is just the beginning.  The ocean has taught me so many lessons…to embrace all experiences (even seasickness), not worry so much, and just be in the moment. Two weeks without connection to the outside world was absolutely glorious. I feel reset. After a very fragmented life the past few years, being around a crew of 17 people every day was amazing…to interact naturally with each other, feel a part of a family of diverse ages, nationalities and backgrounds…I learned so much from these amazing humans. My heart feels so full.” - Sael -USA


"My lifelong dream has been to spend time outside of the US, explore different places, meet , new people and just live somewhere different than what I grew up with. If you told me this time last year that I would have spent the better part the last 365 days sailing around The Canary Islands, surfing in Ireland, sleeping in a van ALONE in England and writing this newsletter on an island in the Adriatic Sea, I would have rolled my eyes at you.  But after joining Ocean Nomads on SV Twister a little over a year ago my life has done a complete 180° ( in the best way possible) and I have the network and so many of you to thank for that! – Brianna SV Twister '21


"The experience on twister with other Ocean Nomads was just really beautiful and I felt connected for the first time in decades, I felt part of a community and had companionship. I was so happy that it’s so all inclusive of gender race religion nationality and most importantly age. It has connected me with like-minded people of all ages and being very transformational personally because my life has been incredibly isolated as a single parent Who works from home. I can honestly say October and November I felt happy and free for the first time in maybe 22 years.  It gave me everything I was looking for. It has opened up so many possibilities to meet new people with similar vibes, including connection, companionship, purpose and being one with nature." - Cay, SV Twister '21


Check our more Stories, Testimonials & Transformations

See the film we made about our Atlantic Crossing last year: Sailing the Atlantic

See the photos of last year's trip on SV Twister.

Safety

A sailing adventure offshore or between countries is not a straightforward endeavour. To be ready to expect the unexpected, careful selection and preparation for a happy, safe, and meaningful voyage is essential. SV Twister allows for a safe and responsibly adventure offshore. The beauty of a vessel this size allows us to connect more salty souls in one place, away from civilization where we disconnect from everything but each other and nature. These are hands-on active expeditions, with next level participation in the offshore legs. We have a professional captain and crew who’ll be showing us the ropes. Everyone on board is expected to take part in the running of the ship. It’s part of the fun, experience, development, and epiphany moment creation. That said, we’ll be many hands on board so there’ll be plenty of room to chill, relax and simply BE.

If you ever dreamed about sailing an ocean, visiting the tropics, or just an experience like nothing else, this could be it!


Offshore sailing on SV Twister with us allows for maximum adventure but with minimum risk. Mum will be happy. SV Twister sails under the Dutch flag including professional crew with the necessary qualification and experience to undertake this voyage. On board, there’s an extensive medical kit and we take extra precautions may you have a certain allergy or challenge. The entire voyage, we are in contact with our shore contact, always aware of our position. In any case of a medical emergency, actions will be coordinated with a medical team. Ocean worthy lifejackets will be provided.

At sea, Twister uses Iridium for weather forecasts. The number you can give to your friends and family. They can reach us if there’s an emergency. Also, you can give Twister email addresses of people you would like to keep informed. Every few days they send an email who will then forward this to your people. 

What’s included

  • Adventure Sailing
    Sail to different Caribbean Countries
  • Sail instruction
    Being taught the ropes of the ship & seamanship
  • Food
    All meals are included (Vegetarian)
  • Drinks
    Water, Tea (incl. lots oh herbal teas), Coffee, Lemonade (No alcohol)
  • Marina Fees & Fuel
  • Bed Linen
    Pillow and blanket
  • Proffesional Crew
    Professional qualified and experienced Skipper & Crew

What’s not included

  • To & from the boat
    Transport to and from the boat destination
  • Personal Insurance
    Personal travel insurance
  • Personal expenses ashore
  • A valid Passport!
    Check check double check

Available Packages

3 or 4 Person Cabin
Deposit:€10
Only 2 left

1 berth in 3 or 4 Person Cabin


€6,110
Deposit:€10
2-person cabin
Deposit:€10
Only 2 left

1 berth in 2 Person Cabin


€7,990
Deposit:€10


Your Organizer


ON
Ocean Nomads
6 reviews
With Ocean Nomads we connect ocean people, vessels, projects, and environmental action to facilitate sailboat travel, adventure, impact, and a nomadic and ocean-conscious way of life. Ocean Nomads trips connect people to each other and to the ocean. Nothing transforms more than actual experience. We add nature and adventure into the mix, and we have a recipe for creating a big dose of positive energy, life changing epiphany moments & accelerating change for a common good. Here's a little intro video: https://oceannomads.co/about/

Reviews

This trip was very impactful on several aspects to me. First of all I gained a lot more confidence in sailing a smaller yacht, in this case a 51ft monohull. What I loved was the super cool, friendly and easy going vibe of the professional crew that made the playful learning process really effortless. On top of that I met 9 really beautiful people that I now know will be a part of my life for the rest of my life. There is something really unifying about sailing, which has super high potential to create great friendships.
By Simon N for Ocean Skill & MileBuilding Canaries- Cape Verde (FULL) on Feb 13, 2025
Best Trip of the year. Ocean Nomads always hits the bar higher and higher. I love their approach, cross-cutting sustainability and focus on the people! Sailing in Greece is an experience of a lifetime and the organization by all the skippers made it remarkably special! Highly recommended. Thanks for everything 🫶🏽
By Paula M for Ocean Nomads Sailing Flotilla | Greece '24 on Jan 03, 2025
It was the second Ocean Nomads trip I joined and I enjoyed it as much as the first one. We created amazing memories and made meaningful connections with people who will become lifelong friends i am sure. The sailing and living together on a boat as a community makes the perfect environment to connect, inspire and share our love for the ocean.
By Julie G for Ocean Nomads Sailing Flotilla | Greece '24 on Oct 25, 2024
We had a great time, reasonably comfortable accommodations for a sailboat, absolutely top level professionals on crew. We got very lucky because we didn't have to wait out any storms or anything, giving us extra time from the very beginning. The Captain was very accommodating and extremely experienced, this being his 35th Atlantic crossing, several times on ships much larger that the Twister. Twister herself is very beautiful and well maintained, and being very well-fitted for ocean crossings.
By David D for Your invitation for Azores - Netherlands| Leg 13 on May 03, 2023
Martinique hiking up the volcano, Dominica visiting a farm style chocolate factory, hiking to a boiling lake and sulphur bubbling pools, amazing swimming in waterfalls and discovering the lush landscape. Ending at Le Saintes in Guadeloupe, the prettiest town in the Caribbean I have seen. All with fabulous vegetarian food, great company and a fabulous tall ship to do it from, a wonderful experience!!
By Cay C for Sail Martinique - Dominica - Guadeloupe | Full ON Nature Exploration on Feb 21, 2023
Show More Reviews

References

WOW! For those sailing enthusiasts, what a way to travel, with 'the Nomads'. The organisation was considerate & the people lovely. Our welcome, support & accommodation, was natural, personal & sincere: from our very own Skipper T, Brianna, Suzi, Jonathon, Julie, Paula, Rem & could go on. Living 24/7 in a group with formerly unknown friends is a big change, (maybe to be expected). We were provided challenge at good tempos & instinctive support, helping us to build on our experience & skills. There was facility to opt out of things, especially if 'Cabin-Fever' set-in or head-space was sought after. This trip combined a great group, a relaxed musical vibe, an experienced understanding skipper & natural, informal ways to develop & expand, tapping into the support & knowledge on offer - & we got to stay in some beautiful, idyllic, natural & un-spoilt locations, giving chances to 'chill' after long sails. This was a great sailing trip & 'cementing' that I wish to do more & take sailing further. When's the next one . . . Up with the C--k.
By Barnaby D on 20 Dec, 2024
I joined the Ocean Nomads Greece October 2024. I want to point out the good vibe, the bonds made with some people and the fact that Ocean Nomads facilitate this space to connect, learn and mingle. Indeed, there is a ripple effect. So Ocean Nomads is a great opportunity to get introduced to the sailing world while you have a full time job, which takes most of your time and requires some certainties.
By Alejandro A on 18 Dec, 2024