FAQ

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What to expect from a sailing trip with „Ballerina“

Port of departure and port of destination are agreed upon in advance. All other stages of the journey, ports and anchorages are subject to wind and weather conditions. Possible changes in the itinerary are also determined by wind and weather.

Patrick, your skipper, welcomes you on board upon arrival at the port of departure. To get a first impression and become familiar with the yacht you will receive a short briefing on how to use the electricity, water, gas stove, WC etc. This will be done just as soon as ‘boarding is completed’ and all crew members are on board. You will then have time to move into your bunks and join us for a welcome drink.

You will become acquainted with your fellow crew members and together we will plan the cruise and determine the next steps. This includes your safety and security on board. Before we begin our journey there is a thorough health and safety briefing; safety for men and materials being our topmost priority. We end the first day with a relaxed dinner in a tavern around the corner.

We start the next morning with a joint shopping tour. As soon as we have stored our supplies we cast off. On the first day we embark on a small trip which enables everyone to settle in and get acclimatised. Depending on the destination and in accordance with the crew we can do longer trips, even through the night. Otherwise we spend the nights in well-protected anchoring berths or harbours. We enjoy our meals on board or, whilst in the harbour, have the choice of visiting a local restaurant, should the crew be eager to discover the local cuisine.

The cruise ends on the last day with a joint breakfast, after which we kindly ask you to disembark “Ballerina” by 11 a.m.

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Solo travellers

We often welcome solo travellers on board. In a group of not more than five guests you will find it very easy to get to know your fellow crew members and if needed, you will even find some private space to just relax and unwind. We try our best to occupy the double cabins with either men or women.

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Allergies and food intolerance

Do you have any allergies or food intolerance? Please inform the skipper as soon as you come aboard. It may be beneficial to share this with your fellow travellers, too. Apart from that you know best how to manage and we kindly ask you to bring any medication or special products you may require.

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Terms and conditions

For the general terms and conditions please follow the link.

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Arrival and departure

Our guests organise their arrival and departure as well as the transfer from the airport to the marina independently.

Arrival

You will meet us at the agreed marina of departure. We will let you know where exactly you will find the yacht previous to your arrival; via e-mail, whatsapp, sms or simply by communicating with us beforehand. You are welcome to board “Ballerina” from 4 p.m. onwards if not agreed otherwise. Normally we do not leave on the very same day. The crew can arrive at their leisure, arrange their cabin or bunk and get to know each other. After the health and safety briefing and food shopping we will sail off the next day.

Which airport should I fly to?

Canary Islands:

• Marina of departure is the Marina de Tazacorte (La Palma): The airport is Santa Cruz de La Palma (SPC). Be careful! – Choose the right airport, Santa Cruz de La Palma. Do not mix it up with Las Palmas de Gran Canaria or La Palma de Mallorca.

• In case the marina of departure is San Miguel (Teneriffe) or Marina de San Sebastián (La Gomera): In both cases fly to the airport Teneriffa South (TFS). To reach La Gomera take the ferry directly to San Sebastián.

• Azores:
  • Marina of departure is the Marina de Ponta Delgada. The Airport is the Aeroporte de Ponta Delgada on the main island São Miguel

Galicia:

Please contact us directly as the exact planning for the area has not yet been finalised.

How do I get from the airport to the marina of Tazacorte?

La Palma: Crossing the island from east to west is about a one hour drive by car, taxi or bus.

Taxis are available at the airport and might be the most convenient mode of transport. A taxi ride costs around 50 EUR. Upon request we can order a taxi to pick you up. The bus is the cheapest but takes longer.

The bus network is fully developed but there is no non-stop connection to the marina. The one-stop bus ride takes around 1.5 – 2 hrs.

If you want to rent a car you can either book it online or at the car rental offices directly at the airport in the arrival hall. The prices range between 10 – 30 EUR per day.

Is there a ferry service and flight connections between the islands?

On the Canary Islands there are two ferry service providers: Naviera Armas is a little cheaper than Fred Olsen Express which is a little faster. Both ferry services connect Los Cristianos (Teneriffa) to Santa Cruz de La Palma via San Sebastián (La Gomera). The canary airline is Binter. The same for the Azores; the islands are connected by ferry services and a flight carrier.

Can I start the cruise from Teneriffa or La Gomera?

Yes. Upon request and according to prior arrangement you can board or go ashore in San Sebastián de La Gomera or the marina de San Miguel de Teneriffa. Please note that for a change of port of departure for your cruise we do charge a supplementary fee depending on wind and weather conditions, stop over in the marina etc.

Can you manage my travel booking?

If you have questions we are happy to help, but as we are not a travel agent we do not offer any of these services. We advise you to contact your preferred travel agent or online service.

Who do I contact if I have problems with my schedule (delays etc.)?

If the flight is delayed please contact the skipper directly. You will get his contact details prior to your trip. His contact details are available on the website.

Day of departure

Normally we arrive at our final destination the day before departure so that we meet all set departure times e.g. to catch a flight. Please share your departure details with the skipper to allow for the best possible planning. We kindly ask our guests to disembark the boat by 11 a. m. on the final day if not agreed otherwise. We are happy to organise a taxi for you for the transfer to the airport if requested.

Departure problems

A sailing boat is not a car and nature takes its own course, hence in rare cases it might happen that we do not reach our final destination on time. However, this is normally on the horizon early enough for you to organise alternative transportation. Of course the skipper will kindly assist you in case you have to rearrange the last stage of the itinerary.

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What equipment is on board “Ballerina”?

Layout

The Baltic 51 is licensed for up to 10 people. For the benefit of comfort, guest relations and support we only travel with a crew of 5 people plus the skipper.

The headroom on “Ballerina” is around 205 cm. There are three double cabins (front cabin and ‘queen cabin’ (owner’s cabin) with a double bed in each as well as the skipper cabin consisting of a bunk bed). The ‘library’ portside in front of the owner’s cabin can easily be transformed into a single bunk. There are two bathrooms (wet cells), each containing a toilet and fresh water shower. The pantry allows for comfortable cooking and the spacious “Salon” invites you to relax around the large table with cushioned seating.

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Cruise kitty

All crew members contribute to the kitty which covers the cost of living on board during the cruise. With this we pay food supplies and the expenses incurred for the yacht during the cruise such as harbour fees, fuel etc. Other activities and restaurant invoices are not covered by the kitty unless the crew decides otherwise.

Does the skipper contribute to the kitty?

Contrary to common practice the skipper pays his share into the kitty to cover food supplies, though he is spared from harbour fees and diesel. Why? Simply because he wants to protect the crew from tinned Ravioli as he is deeply convinced that life is too short for bad food!

How much am I expected to contribute to the kitty?

The amount depends on the cruise, the amount of people on board and certainly their (culinary) preferences. Generally speaking sailing is cheaper than travelling via engine, anchoring is cheaper than staying in the marina and cooking is mostly cheaper than eating in a restaurant. However, we commonly agree that bad eating is not an option, no matter where this is ☺  The contribution will be agreed among the crew members. As a rough estimate it can range between 100 – 200 EUR / per person / per week.

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Life on board

A sailing cruise and living on board comes down to teamwork. If you prefer an all-inclusive-full-service holiday, you might be disappointed by travelling with us. “Ballerina” is not a swimming hotel. Shopping, washing-up and cooking are joint efforts and these tasks are shared among the crew. When offshore you will enjoy sailing no matter whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a nautical newbie (there is worse to be had than learning to sail on a Baltic 51).

Spirit on Board

Hearty! We maintain an open and caring style when dealing with people. Having a good time on board means upholding an honest, calm and respectful relationship with each other whether on the yacht, with our neighbours in the harbour, with those anchoring nearby, with the natives or purely with nature.

Do I have to contribute and work on board?

Of course this is not a requirement. However, by joining us you are striving to spend an active holiday on a fantastic sailing yacht and not lazing around waiting to be served a fresh and cool Rosé (although that might well happen every now and then). Basically the skipper has the necessary experience, knowledge and qualifications to operate the yacht. However a sailing cruise is a joint activity where everyone plays his/her part to create a great and unique cruising experience for the whole team. Hands-on experience is not a requirement and everyone will be thoroughly taught and coached with respect to the day-to-day tasks and duties in order to allow everyone to get involved in setting sails, navigating, casting-off, landing etc.

Do we spend the night in the marina or do we anchor somewhere?

Both; depending on the cruise planning that is done onsite together with the crew.

Where can I take a shower?

Most marinas do offer sanitary facilities including showers. The yacht has two ‘bathrooms’ (wet cells). After swimming on deck, in the back cockpit, there is an extended shower hose. Despite having a desalination unit, fresh water is limited and we kindly ask everyone to use it sparingly in particular on longer trips.

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Can I book a single bunk in one of the double cabins?

Yes, you can book a single bunk for an extra charge. For the front cabin we charge an additional fee of 500 EUR per week and the surcharge for the owner’s cabin (queen cabin) amounts to 600 EUR per week. You can find all prices here.

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Food & beverage

We believe good food sets us in good stead!

How does the catering on board work?

Before starting the cruise we check all groceries in stock and after a rough plan we do the shopping. The fridge allows us to store fresh produce. There is a three-ring gas stove with an oven and the usual cooking utensils. In accordance with the crew we do the cooking on board and from time to time we eat out. Beyond his skills as a skipper you should not underestimate his cooking skills ☺

Can I bring my own food and beverage?

Why would you need to? ☺  We manage our food supplies onsite and besides, please bear in mind that storage is limited on a yacht. We kindly ask you not to stow any food in the bunks.

I am a vegetarian or vegan?

Please inform the skipper beforehand so that he can prepare your culinary preferences on board.

Eating out

There is nothing to be said against exploring local cuisine. The crew decides whether they want to pay separately or have it covered by the cruise kitty.

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Home port / Port of registry

Port of registry is Leer, Germany, and Ballerina’s home base is the Marina of Tazacorte on the Island of La Palma / Canaries. This is usually from where the cruises begin and end, if not agreed otherwise. On the Azores we begin and end our cruises in the marina of Ponta Delgada.

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Cabins & bunks

A sailing yacht cabin is not exactly what you would call a“presidential suite”, but still “Ballerina” offers a high quality interior atmosphere as well as spacious and comfortable cabins. As you will spend most of your time outside anyway most people do not have a problem with the naturally limited space on the yacht.

How big are the cabins?

The front cabin is equipped with a double bed measuring 140 cm on the broadest point and 190 cm in length. The queen cabin (owner’s cabin) is larger and offers a double bed measuring 140 x 200 cm. The library can be transformed into a single bunk or, subject to prior agreement with the skipper, a bunk bed can be arranged in the skipper cabin. Sufficient storage for your personal belongings is available. If you need additional space you may want to consider booking a single cabin at an additional charge.

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Children – is there a minimum age for children?

Children are welcome on board from the age of 14. We kindly ask for your understanding that we do not offer discounted rates for children.

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Clothing

Be prepared for the heat, for the cold (offshore or at night), for the wet (fresh water or salty showers may occur). Nevertheless your credo should be: „less is more“. The multi-layer principle has proven incredibly useful in that respect. The same as for fast drying fabrics. Bring deck shoes or trainers with soles designed to provide a non-marking grip whilst on board in wet and dry conditions. Dark soles are not permitted on board. Don’t forget flip-flops for use in the sanitary facilities. Also don’t forget your sun protection, hat and sunglasses. Bed linen is provided. On request we are happy to provide you with a packing list by email or see below.

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Suitcase / travel bag

Soft, foldable travel, sport or duffel bags are perfect. Hard-top suitcases or trolleys must stay at the jetty as they cannot be stowed on board.

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Shore leave

Of course we want to enjoy as much sailing as possible, however the islands are far too beautiful to just watch from offshore. There is a lot to explore and we do not want to keep you from discovering fantastic landscapes, impressive nature and lovely people. In case the wind convinces us to stay in the marina for one day it is highly unlikely that you will become bored.

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Long distance cruises

The passage Canaries – Azores – Galicia is a medium distance cruise and some sailing experience is requested and reasonable to have. For details, please feel free to contact the skipper. The same applies to longer distances in between the islands or to night navigation.

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Medication & medical treatment

A first-aid kit is on board containing, amongst other things, common medication. By no means is this to be confused with a local chemist and we therefore kindly request you to bring your own medicines, e. g. antipyretic remedy, painkillers or medication to fight sea sickness. In case you are reliant on specific medication or take regular medication you must inform the skipper in preparation for the cruise.

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Car rental – what do you recommend?

You can check out Auto Soica and Autos AVA. On request both companies deliver the cars directly to the marina as well as to the airport. Nevertheless, we recommend you to check out the respective websites beforehand.

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Mile confirmation – can I receive confirmation for my sailing license?

No problem; the skipper is happy to confirm the nautical miles of the cruise. Please bring the form with you in case you require specific confirmation for license purposes.

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Crew members – who and how many?

The Baltic 51 is licensed for 10 people although we only offer our cruises to a maximum of 5 guests. This allows for an exclusive touch in terms of boat life, providing a great deal of comfort.

There are more than 5 of us; can still sail with you?

We have no more than 5 guests plus the skipper sailing with “Ballerina” which is our contribution to comfort, the quality of living, individual support and coaching.

Who are the guests on board?

A good question; there is more than just one answer.
Our guests are aged between 17 and 70, sometimes water-sport enthusiasts or just irresistibly attracted to the ocean. Generally we find ourselves with very nice folks, down-to-earth, open-minded and simply likeable. If you are looking for the ultimate „Ballermann-feeling“ we would most probably not be the right boat for you.

Women and men on the same boat – does this pose any problems?

We have never faced any ‘gender’ based difficulties on board. On the contrary, we love to have a great mix of people on board enjoying their cruise. If requested we try to share the double bunks among same-sex crew members.

Is it difficult when people do not know each other?

Don’t be shy! People sailing are normally very welcoming and make it easy for others to join in. After a little warm-up we usually have a relaxed, respectful and accommodating atmosphere among the crew. In the end, everyone plays his/her part in the team dynamic and has a direct impact on the feel-good-index on board. In case of atmospheric strains the skipper is always ready to listen and has a rather keen sense of dissolving conflicts even before they arise.

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Guest sailing agreement

In preparation for your cruise we kindly request you to sign our guest sailing agreement which we will provide to you via e-mail beforehand. You may hand over the signed document to the skipper, at the latest, before coming aboard. We regret to inform you that without a signed guest sailing agreement we cannot take you on the cruise.

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Night navigation – do we sail overnight?

Depending on our destination and in accordance with the crew we do sail overnight. Of course you will get an appropriate briefing and the crew members alternate with regards to the night shifts.

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Emergency – what happens in an emergency

First and foremost we will do our utmost to avoid any emergency by being thoughtful and prudent, accurate and predictive by way of operating the yacht and living on board. In case of an emergency / distress there is a defined course of action to adhere to and every crew member must follow the skippers’ instructions. The skipper will do a health and safety briefing before the cruise starts in which all steps will be explained in detail.

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Packing list – what should I pack?

We provide bed linen for every guest. The board library offers some books for a good read. On request we are happy to provide the packing list to you via e-mail. At a glance, here are a few things that may serve you well on board:

• Shoes
  • deck shoes or trainers with soles designed to provide a non-marking grip whilst on board, in wet and dry conditions (no shoes with black or dark soles)
  • Flip-flops
  • Sturdy shoes for shore leaves, trekking sandals
• Sun protection
  • headgear
  • long-sleeves
  • sunglasses
  • sunscreen with high sun protection, SPF 30 / 50  (please bear in mind that sunlight is reflected and intensified by the ocean’s surface)
• Clothing
  • Shorts and long trousers
  • T-Shirts
  • Swimwear
  • Fleece jackets and pullovers (sea breeze, and in the evening it can feel a little chilly)
  • Windbreaker, cagoule
• Special sailing clothes
  • If you have them please bring them. If not, you will be well equipped by bringing a waterproof windbreaker or sports jacket and waterproof trousers. Particularly on the Canaries between the islands you can feel the venturi effect with strong winds. You may be exposed to small salty showers or to small rain showers on the Azores, especially in springtime or in the autumn on the Canaries.
• Towels
• Personal medicine
• Toilet bag (toothbrush & Co., contact lense care, etc.)

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Smoking – can I smoke on board?

Inside “Ballerina” smoking is not permitted, neither tobacco nor vapor or electric cigarettes. On deck you may smoke (lee-side in order to avoid ashes in the sails which is not a good idea). By no means are cigarette stubs to be thrown overboard.

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Travel documents

Usually we are in close contact prior to your cruise to exchange information and clarify any open points. Communication is either via e-mail, WhatsApp or by simply talking to each other over the phone. Roughly 3 – 4 weeks before you start your cruise we will provide you with all the necessary documents, e. g. the contact details of the skipper in case you are not already in touch with each other, final information for your arrival at the marina, a crew list, guest sailing agreement, packing list if required.

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Price of a cruise

Please refer to the overview on our website: Price of a cruise

What is included in the price and are there any additional costs?

The rates include all fix costs for the yacht, e. g. bed linen and cleaning. Furthermore the rates include the use of the yacht with the skipper for the duration of the cruise, accommodation on the yacht as well as personal accident insurance, liability insurance and comprehensive cover on the yacht. Your contribution to the cruise kitty is not included in the rates.

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Sailing area / yachting waters

Canary Islands: November – mid May
Azores: end of May – end of July
Galicia: beginning of August – end of September
Portugal and Madeira: end of September – beginning of November

Other areas on the radar?

For summer 2020 the skipper would like to set sail for Ireland, but this has not yet been confirmed.

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(nautical) Experience

You can enjoy a sailing cruise on a Baltic 51 no matter whether you’re a seasoned sailor or an absolute beginner. Sailing experience is not a requirement. The skipper is a certified sailing instructor and you will be trained and coached so that everyone can actively participate and enjoy sailing “Ballerina” according to their level of experience.

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Seasickness

Almost everyone experiences a trace of seasickness at the very beginning, but it is not the case that everyone gets seasick automatically. The great majority of people get used to the movement of the yacht after one or two days when the sense of balance adopts to the new environment. Very few people indeed become permanently seasick. As every individual reacts differently it is almost impossible to provide a guaranteed recipe on how to deal with it or recommend any medication. Nevertheless the sailing community provides a bunch of tips for the prevention and relief of seasickness and we are happy to share a few of them:

• Sleep – those beginning a cruise well-rested are less susceptible.
• Nutrition – high responsiveness: light diet.
  • Reduce histamine: histamine is said to foster seasickness. If you are highly susceptible it is recommended that you stick to a low histamine diet before and during the first couple of cruising days (fish, food gained through fermentation, e. g. slow-ageing sausages and cheese; wine and beer, but also vegetables such as tomatoes or spinach)
  • Reducing acidity: reduce meat and fish products as a main course as the digestive system produces much more stomach acidity; limit citrus fruits and acid-containing beverages such as coffee, lemonade, wine
  • Compatible: fresh fruit and vegetables (low acidity) such as bananas or carrots, (unleavened) bread, rusks, soups, tea (camomile, peppermint, ginger), warm (still) water.
• Dietary supplement – vitamin C
  • High dosage vitamin c is said to have a prophylactic effect. Start taking two to three days beforehand; everyone needs to work out what is best for her / him.
• Medication – generally, it is strictly recommended that you exercise due care when taking any medication.
  • There is medication to fight seasickness (Superpep, Vomex, Scopolamin, Xitrix (vitamin preparation) or Antihistamine). If you decide to go for these, it is recommended that you begin taking them a couple of days before the cruise. CAUTION: Some have side effects and can cause e.g. fatigue – out of the question for drivers, the skipper or active sailors. Please consult your doctor for advice.
• Alternative methods
  • Acupressure wristbands
  • Boarding Ring: glasses with an artificial horizon. Developed by French sailors, the glasses are meanwhile marketed by Citroën against travel-sickness when riding in the back of a car.
• Behaviour on board – relief
  • Fresh air: sit in the cockpit and fix your eyes on the horizon.
  • Stand at the helm: It helps to concentrate on steering and at the helm you have the horizon in sight and the waves; that helps
  • Sleeping on deck or in the bunk (with a bucket/ bailer, please ☺)
  • Inside keep you head upright, do not bow downwards
  • Limit your stay inside the WC and sleep
• Heaving – it is as it is and it is not a problem at all!
  • Please let the skipper or a crew member know when you are not well so that they can all keep a caring eye on you
  • Ask for the bucket early enough
  • If early enough is too late: vomiting only over the luv rail or on deck. Never, never on the lee side, the deep side! Safety first, no matter what!

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Safety on board

Safety first! Always. Safety is our foremost priority for all crew members, the skipper, the ship and the materials. Safety is not negotiable. The skipper takes all necessary decisions and everyone on board must stick to the skippers’ instructions.

Safety equipment

• Automatic life jackets with lifebelts and unconsciousness protection for every guest
• Life raft for 6 people
• First-aid kit
• Satellite phone
• EPIRB
• GPS
• AIS

No!

Remember: safety first – this is why you do not pee over the railing just because you can. The same goes for emptying your stomachs’ content over the deep side, just because it’s closest ☺

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Languages on board -what is spoken on board?

French, Spanish, English, German

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Charging smartphones / tablets

The yachts’ power supply consists of 12 V, 24 V and 220 V. 220 V is only available in the marina. Smartphones and tablets can be charged offshore with 12 V or you may want to use your power bank.

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Storm – what do we do in case of one?

We are not storm chasers. Normally the weather forecasts provide sufficient evidence when the weather conditions are likely to deteriorate severely. As safety is our foremost priority we will take shelter in a marina or a suitable anchoring berth. Vice versa it is not an option to leave a safe place just for the sake of leaving, as this might quickly turn into a rather uncomfortable sailing experience which everyone can quite happily do without.

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Insurance and papers

The Canary Islands belong to Spain, the Azores and Madeira are Portuguese which means EU-citizens can travel with their ID cards; a valid passport will be accepted, too, of course (for UK citizens a valid passport is required).

What insurance should I have?

You might want to consult your insurance company to check whether your health insurance covers your stay in the respective countries, or if it might make sense to take out a travel health insurance. You might want them to advise you on whether or not to take out accident and baggage insurance. We recommend travel cancellation insurance.

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What previous knowledge do I require?

None, the right mindset is sufficient.

Do I need to be able to swim?

Yes.

Do I have to be free of giddiness?

No, unless you want to climb the mast. – joking aside; with a sudden and uncontrollable swindle or a benign paroxysmal postural vertigo you are not safe on board a boat, but we trust that you know best how to handle this.

Do I have to be of the sporty type?

Sportiness can be an advantage, although it is not a requirement and for many seamanlike tasks sportiness is irrelevant. A minimum awareness of the body makes it easier to move on board and reduces the risk of injury. Apart from that everyone joins in according to his/her capabilities.

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Weather

Temperature – how warm is it?

On the Canaries we enjoy a mild climate all year round. Winter temperatures average between 15°C and 22°C. Temperatures on the Azores range from between 20°C and 27°C in summer.

Can we swim?

Yes, if you are comfortable with the water temperature which is around 19°C to 21°C on the Canaries in winter and between 20°C – 23°C on the Azores in summer time.

When the weather is bad – what happens?

Counter question: What do you mean by bad weather? – Rain for example is not necessarily bad weather. In fact we always make the best out of every weather situation. If we do not sail we take advantage of exploring the country and its inhabitants or simply relaxing and unwinding in a beautiful anchoring berth.

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WiFi

We have WiFi on “Ballerina” which we will happily share with you e. g. to check your messages or e-mails. Access is only possible within the reach of the Spanish mobile radio network though and only on the Canaries and in Galicia. As our data volume is limited we kindly ask you not to use data consuming streaming services (youtube, Spotify etc.). Just lift your head and you will have 360° live entertainment ☺

Yacht charter – can I charter the yacht exclusively?

Yes, you can charter the yacht. Our skipper will always be on board. You can charter the yacht exclusively for you or as a group of up to five people. The rates for the skippered yacht charter are stated on our website: Price of a cruise

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Payment conditions

Please refer to the general terms and conditions.

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Do you have any more questions? Please feel free to drop us an e-mail; the answer may be relevant for others, too.