finisterre sailboat

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• Sailboat Guide

Finisterre (S&S)

Finisterre (S&S) is a 38 ′ 5 ″ / 11.7 m monohull sailboat designed by Sparkman & Stephens and Alvin Mason and built by Seth Perrson (USA) starting in 1954.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

S&S design #1054. Included here because the original ‘Finisterre’ has a racing record unequaled to this day for an individual boat (under the ownership of Carlton Mitchell), but also because it set the standard for the beamy centerboard type popularized during the late 1950’s and early 1960’s, at the peak of CCA rule in America. Designers such as William Tripp Jr., Charles Morgan and others certainly owed much to this particular boat. It is thought that at least 3 boats built to this design still survive. (2007)

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Cruising Log of the Murrelet

The story of finisterre.

Carleton Mitchell, the owner of Finisterre, is the author of the book Islands to Windward. He had developed a sailing style that was not in concert with the era of the deep-keeled, long-ended windward leeward oriented ocean racers. Mitchell had previously owned a 58-foot centerboarder, the Rodes-designed Caribbee. Michell wanted to prove something by racing.

With Finisterre, he humiliated hundreds of deep fixed keel race boat owners by holding the honor mooring spot off the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club from 1956 to 1962, a spot envisioned for a much larger and deep draft vessel.

Prior to the build, Mitchell put his ideas in articles which were criticized, putting him in the awkward position of potential publicized failure. Finisterre was built at the height of custom yacht design. His notion of a vessel that would be like having your cake and eating it to, that would be small enough for single handling, comfortable enough for luxurious cruising, able to cross oceans and fast enough to win races was not popular among the all boats are compromises mindset. The fact that the vessel would be a centerboarder undoubtedly angered many who had worked for years to discredit this foil type.

Pat Royce in the 2000 edition of Royce Sailing Illustrated notes that Mitchell used the swing keel for steering. “The centerboard is down all the way when beating to windward in a light breeze. As the wind increases the centerboard is raised sufficiently to trim the rudder to reduce weather helm rudder drag.” Pg 17

From dolphin24.org

Designed by Sparkman & Stephens,  Finisterre  is arguably the top racing sailboat of the 20th century. Launched in 1954,  Finesterre  was built by a legendary craftsman, Seth Persson in Old Saybrook, CT for legendary racer Carleton Mitchell.  Finisterre  was 1st in Class and 1st over all in 3 consecutive Bermuda Races (1956, 58, 60) a feat never equaled since. This rather small, 38′ LOA, beamy, bronze centerboard yawl combined speed (especially in light air), seaworthiness and comfort, was a great racing boat in all conditions, and in her owner’s words “..it was as a cruising boat that I felt  Finisterre  was truly a success.” She was comfortable, easy to sail shorthanded, her shallow draft made gunk holing possible. Carleton was a remarkable sailor and yachting writer who passed away in July, 2007 at 96. Soundings Magazine’s October, 2007 had a very good article about him which we have permission of the magazine to reprint.  Click here to go to it.   Later in his career Carleton became interested in power boats. In 1960, the same year he won his 3rd consecutive Bermuda race with  Finesterre , he raced with Dick Bertrum as navigator on Moppie – the boat famous for winning the Miami Nausau Race. For an interesting side trip click here for more.

The 1960 Bermuda Race started in light air but it is memorable for its Force 8/9 gale with hurricane force gusts recorded. Many boats went to survival mode, hove to, laying a-hull with bare poles or running off dragging lines astern. Through it all  Finisterre  carried sail and never stopped racing under her #3 jib, deeply reefed main and full mizzen with sheets eased slightly to keep moving through heavy seas.

Finisterre  had many other racing successes notably in the S.O.R.C. in 1957 and 1958 when she won the Miami-Nassau Race both years. In light air she excelled despite her heavy displacement. Olin Stephens modestly credits the skill and experience of her owner and skipper, and her loyal hard driving crew, for this record of racing success.

When Bill Shaw chose  Finisterre  for the boat he would use as a model for his Shaw 24 he knew he could not put Carleton Mitchell at her helm so the basic design characteristics inherited from  Finisterre  had something to do with the fact that hull #1 , Trina,  won 17 consecutive races! This caught the attention of George O’Day and he told Olin he wanted a fiberglass ‘junior ocean racer’ along  Trina’s  lines.  Click here to see the Dolphin birth certificate.

Good Old Boat

Finisterre  is the greatest good old boat of all time, not only because of her historic racing record, but also for the fact that for every mile she was raced, she was cruised 10. After one of Finisterre’s Bermuda wins, Carlton Mitchell crossed the Atlantic in her and cruised the Med. How many owners of modern stripped-out racing machines would even think of doing such a thing. John Pruitt in Good Old Boat News Letter February 2007

The boat was expensive for her length. Finisterre was fitted with all the racing technology available for a boat of her era.

The Bermuda race was popularised by Herbert L. Stone. Not only was he editor of Yachting magazine, but he was also the Commodore of Cruising Club of America when he gathered 23 cruising type boats to race from New London Connecticut to Bermuda. This was in June of 1923. 20 years later he realised that a great change, not unlike what sailors have seen recently with the AC35, was occurring in sailboat design. And it was occurring because of the Bermuda race.

The 20 years that followed were to see an evolution in design and rig that was to produce the best, fastest and most seaworthy types of small yachts ever built, whose coming into being was to be largely responsible for the utter neglect of the established racing rule classes… Herbert L. Stone, Yachting June 1943, page 37

Stone passed on September 27 of 1955. The Royal Bermuda Yacht Club, for the first time in its 111 history honoured a non member by putting its flag at half staff on the day of his funeral. In most ways Stone’s life is summarised by the greatest good old boat, Finisterre.

The Fastnet sailboat race is important in boat design because it has been highly influential in the growth of offshore racing and remains closely linked to advances in yacht design, sailing technique, and safety equipment. The 1979 Fastnet Race is particularly significant because it changed the way yachts are designed after the UK’s worst sailing disaster which occurred during that race. 24 boats were abandoned, five boats sunk, 136 sailors were rescued, and 15 sailors died. Finisterre raced in the 1979 Fastnet Race, which is significant because it was one of the boats that survived the storm that caused the disaster. She is a very beamy, very heavy displacement Yacht with overhangs which provide extra waterline length with heel. Even today her centerboard is rarely mentioned in ocean racing literature.

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3 thoughts on “ the story of finisterre ”.

CRUISING BOAT EVOLUTION: From Work Boats to Yachts @sailfeed #charlesdoane http://t.co/nO7XMhlhlV http://t.co/Vb33mZzuDw — SAIL Magazine (@sailmagazine) March 28, 2014

Cruising Log Murrelet | Finisterre #sailing http://t.co/VdIIMNDTuO http://t.co/CXFMKNf9Lt : http://t.co/DwgngZw6ux pic.twitter.com/KN3FIDKoth — Frank Mighetto (@mighetto1) June 19, 2014

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Finisterre, S&S, Allied Seabreeze and overhangs

Discussion in ' Boat Design ' started by CapKos , Mar 31, 2009 .

CapKos Junior Member

Hi All, I just crossed the Med with an Allied Seabreeze, and was positively surprised from the excellent stability and seaworthiness of this boat. Allied Seabreeze was designed with the same concept of the famous Finisttere of S&S, and have extremely high overhangs (LOA/LWL = 1.43), large beam 10ft, and relatively low ballast ratio – 0.3. My question is: is it such a boat saves for offshore sailing and possible ocean crossing? Cheers, CapKos, Freelance and Corsair  

FAST FRED Senior Member

is it such a boat saves for offshore sailing and possible ocean crossing? With much weathert planning and a bit of LUCK many folks circumnavigating have only seen a 35K breeze or less. The North Atlantic in February is a hard place for any boat ,the Caribbean is a different experience. Read of other folks voyages. We have a Benateau First 32 , at our dock,that crossed the Atlantic in season with style. Hardly any cruisers dream of an ocean crosser , but it works. FF FF  

Hi Fred, I agree that in the good season it is possible to cross the Atlantic with nearly any boat, but should be good to have a boat able to resist any weather. I am asking mainly because the long overhangs surprise me. I remember that Slocum warning that this is not appropriate in big waves. But actually Finisterre was build exactly for the ocean racing. So I couldn’t understand where is the trick. All the best, Konstantin  

Wolf Hound Junior Member

Gentlemen, This is an old thread, but the discussion here continues to matter. Opinions vary, but many experienced seamen prefer the sort of overhangs that a Seabreeze has, because they moderate her motion in a seaway, and add to her buoyancy, enabling her to lift better to the waves. With a cutaway forefoot and a relatively shallow keel, her tendency to broach is diminished somewhat, and the negatives of the longer overhangs are accordingly moderated. All the best, Wolf Hound  

PAR Yacht Designer/Builder

The Allied Seabreeze was a typical CCA approach to design, taking advantage of a few quirks in the rules for ocean racing. The original versions had steering issues and a new rudder solved this and CCA rule changes made short work of the other advantages they enjoyed. These yachts were good sea boats, but would get clobbered as sheets eased by modern yachts. Their very generous D/L (440) made them good deep water boats, even if shoalish draft (3' 10"). If the ends were kept free of heavy objects, they fair well in a good slosh in blue water, but maneuverability is lacking compared to modern craft of similar dimensions. Welcome to the forum Wolf.  

michael pierzga Senior Member

CapKos said: ↑ Hi All, I just crossed the Med with an Allied Seabreeze, and was positively surprised from the excellent stability and seaworthiness of this boat. Allied Seabreeze was designed with the same concept of the famous Finisttere of S&S, and have extremely high overhangs (LOA/LWL = 1.43), large beam 10ft, and relatively low ballast ratio – 0.3. My question is: is it such a boat saves for offshore sailing and possible ocean crossing? Cheers, CapKos, Freelance and Corsair Click to expand...

Attached Files:

Cal40a02.jpg.

I disagree. Many of the old CCA style yachts are fine sea boats, comfortable and well founded. Sure they aren't a modern boat, but in many cases you're prefer to be in one, than a canoe body taking a beating in a rough slosh. I've owned a number of CCA era boats and have a fondness for their motion, accommodation considering typical beam restraints and general sea kindliness. Yep, they have their issues, just like anything else, but they have their good points too, one of which is you can find a good deal on a solid boat without a second mortgage. As far as the SeaBreeze, it wouldn't be my pick, for a few reasons, but I can think of several CCA's that I'd love to own.  

PAR, which CCA's are at the top of your list, please, and why? Wolf Hound  

Choices in yachts are fairly speculative at best, but the old S&S Sailmaster 45 (S&S #1618.1), with the upgraded trapezoidal rudder was a fine boat, for the short time I was on it. I can think of many of these old horses that would serve me well, though my priorities for enjoyment, may not be especially rational or appropriate for others. I use to own an early Hinckley Pilot 35 and an all teak Lion class 36 and most I know that have owned one of these, still have fond regards for them. Many, many yachts to choice from in this era. I have a buddy with a Grampion, he couldn't part with and understandably, though I've had my eyes on an old Bounty II for some time, but a Cal 40 is also sparking my interest and is a better performer too . Maybe a Phil Rhodes "Thunderhead" or a Gulfstream 36 or a K Aage Nielsens "Sayonara", possably a Newport 41. There are lots of reasons to like these CCA's, fast enough, comfortable, seakindly, and beautiful. I'd rather cross an ocean (the OP's questions on the subject) in a well thought out CCA then many of the modern offerings, unless I was racing.  

There's an S & S Sailmaster/Seafarer 45 for sale in Frisco last I knew. She's in pretty good original condition, and could perhaps be had for ~$100K. IIRC, the present owner bought this boat from Jim Flood who bought DORADE from Olin and Rod in 1936. Apparently, Jim was very instrumental in having these boats built. Wolf Hound P.S. We used to call the rudder type to which you refer a "Constellation" rudder. Olin Stephens' CONSTELLATION had a radically new rudder shape, differing from the established shape for all previous vessels, which had been a semicircular segment section. CONSTELLATION’s rudder was narrower at the top and wider at the base near the rudder shoe. This allowed for the rudder to bite more firmly on less disturbed water, providing greater control downwind and better laminar flow off the after end of the blade.  

Wolf Hound said: ↑ . . . We used to call the rudder type to which you refer a "Constellation" rudder. Olin Stephens' CONSTELLATION had a radically new rudder shape, differing from the established shape for all previous vessels, which had been a semicircular segment section. CONSTELLATION’s rudder was narrower at the top and wider at the base near the rudder shoe. This allowed for the rudder to bite more firmly on less disturbed water, providing greater control downwind and better laminar flow off the after end of the blade . . . Click to expand...

But actually Finisterre was build exactly for the ocean racing. You have to remember a Racing boat is not built to be the fastest boat. It is built to measure/rate as a slow boat , and if it sails marginally better , its a "winner". Just take a look at basic sail area on an older cruiser , and a more moderrn racer. The racer has to carry a spinnaker variant to windward to have the working sail of an earlier boat. The older CCA boats were fine sailors and many even had sail area of a reasonable size! Remember cruisers need to be able to single hand the boat 95% of the time so the crew can rest. Racers think its great sport to hang on the rail to Bermuda. How do you like to sail? FF  

The modern ocean going sailboat completes its passage and drinks Dark and Stormy's in Bermuda. An old time ocean going sailboat is still at sea , battling the dark and Stormy's on its way to Bermuda. . Nostalgia is your choice.  

The difference in speed, on an ocean crossing in a modern boat, sailed at cruising pleasure and an old CCA, also sailed at cruising pleasure, isn't significant Micheal, given two boats of similar size and configuration.  

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Speed , pleasure and comfort are debatable. I did 4 transatlantics with a SS swan 65 ketch. Plenty fast. 15 days Gib to Antigua. To keep the speed up I needed 5 sail reaches. A cloud of sails, blisters on your hands from trying to keep the boat under the sails and crew always kept busy trimming or striking a sail. When the boss bought a new Ron Holland 70 footer I could keep the speed up with the main, a roller genoa and a book in my hand. . In the end its up to the client. For me , in the Ocean , a modern reaching, surfing yacht that tracks well under autopilot and can be easily powered is best. Inshore under variable conditions and upwind work, where usabilty is the most critical factor, old timers perform fine and may be superior. The Swan was a dream to sail inshore. She had no electric, hydaulic sail controls so crew, guest involvement, pleasure was much greater.  

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Finisterre ss

The finisterre ss is a 38.5ft masthead yawl designed by sparkman & stephens and built in wood planked since 1954., 4 units have been built..

The Finisterre ss is a very heavy sailboat which is a reasonably good performer. It is reasonably stable / stiff and has an excellent righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a bluewater cruising boat.

Finisterre ss for sale elsewhere on the web:

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Sparkman & stephens finisterre 1957 boats for sale & yachts, sparkman & stephens boats review and specs.

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GLORY is one of the well-regarded Sparkman & Stephens keel/centerboard yawls, which are slightly enlarged versions of the very popular and successful FINISTERRE owned by Carlton Mitchell. These vessels are known for their good sailing characteristics and spacious accommodations for their length. We feel that GLORY can be well recommended and shall be pleased to arrange inspections.

PLEASE NOTE! The barn where some of GLORY?s gear was stored for the winter tragically burned, and much of her gear was lost as follows:

All of the sail inventory All berth cushions and pillows All the cockpit cushions One of the cockpit awnings The dodger cover (the frame is still on the boat) The mizzen mast and radar dome The mizzen boom The main boom is probably salvageable with a paint job and some rigging The spreaders to the main mast The Windex Loran C antenna The life raft

Consequently, the asking price has been drastically reduced–from $78,000 to $29,500–and the owner is offering the boat at an attractive price for one who is able to take on the necessary repairs and upgrades and restore this S&S yawl to what she should be.

Contact Information

Sparkman & Boats for Sale Craigslist & Sparkman & Specs & Pictures

Related posts:.

• Sparkman & Stephens Sailmaster 45 Yawl 1963
• Sparkman & Stephens Yawl 1946
• Sparkman & Stephens K/CB Yawl 1957
• Sparkman and Stephens Yawl 1957

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Review of Finisterre

Basic specs..

The boat can only enter major marinas as the draft is about 2.32 - 2.42 meter (7.61 - 7.91 ft) dependent on the load. See immersion rate below.

Sailing characteristics

This section covers widely used rules of thumb to describe the sailing characteristics. Please note that even though the calculations are correct, the interpretation of the results might not be valid for extreme boats.

What is Capsize Screening Formula (CSF)?

The capsize screening value for Finisterre is 1.61, indicating that this boat could - if evaluated by this formula alone - be accepted to participate in ocean races.

What is Theoretical Maximum Hull Speed?

The theoretical maximal speed of a displacement boat of this length is 7.2 knots. The term "Theoretical Maximum Hull Speed" is widely used even though a boat can sail faster. The term shall be interpreted as above the theoretical speed a great additional power is necessary for a small gain in speed.

The immersion rate is defined as the weight required to sink the boat a certain level. The immersion rate for Finisterre is about 202 kg/cm, alternatively 1132 lbs/inch. Meaning: if you load 202 kg cargo on the boat then it will sink 1 cm. Alternatively, if you load 1132 lbs cargo on the boat it will sink 1 inch.

Sailing statistics

This section is statistical comparison with similar boats of the same category. The basis of the following statistical computations is our unique database with more than 26,000 different boat types and 350,000 data points.

What is Motion Comfort Ratio (MCR)?

What is L/B (Length Beam Ratio)?

What is a Ballast Ratio?

What is Displacement Length Ratio?

SA/D (Sail Area Displacement ratio) Indicates how fast the boat is in light wind: - Cruising Boats have ratios 10-15 - Cruiser-Racers have ratios 16-20 - Racers have ratios above 20 - High-Performance Racers have ratios above 24 Sail-area/displacement ratio (SA/D ratio): 14.46

Maintenance

When buying anti-fouling bottom paint, it's nice to know how much to buy. The surface of the wet bottom is about 38m 2 (409 ft 2 ). Based on this, your favourite maritime shop can tell you the quantity you need.

If you need to renew parts of your running rig and is not quite sure of the dimensions, you may find the estimates computed below useful.

This section shown boat owner's changes, improvements, etc. Here you might find inspiration for your boat.

Do you have changes/improvements you would like to share? Upload a photo and describe what to look for.

We are always looking for new photos. If you can contribute with photos for Finisterre it would be a great help.

If you have any comments to the review, improvement suggestions, or the like, feel free to contact us . Criticism helps us to improve.

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• Ferrocement Finisterre Ketch

A Custom 35ft Ferrocement Finisterre Ketch for Sale

SORRY, NOW SOLD!

For more boats like this one that are currently for sale please go to

Cruising Sailboats for Sale...

Although this boat is no longer available, the pics and text are retained here for the benefit of anyone researching this particular make/model of sailboat.

Asking Price and previous owner's contact details have been deleted.

'Sandpiper' my ferrocement Finisterre Ketch is a custom-built, Samson adaptation of the famous Sparkman & Stephens ocean racer 'Finisterre' , incorporating Annapolis racer-cruiser innovation and traditional Skipjack lines.

Built by a NASA engineer at Middle River, Maryland, in 1972, her 12-tonne displacement puts her 5 tonnes lighter than the original wooden hull she was based on. Her strength comes well-tested by extensive cruising, and she has been carefully maintained with five haulouts over the past fifteen years.

Presently docked in New Bern, North Carolina, 'Sandpiper' is fitted-out for liveaboard life in the tropics.

Having never left Chesapeake before 2005, she was campaigned to the Caribbean Islands in 2010-15, and has been found to be ideally suited as a live-aboard cruiser, with good headroom (6' throughout), and airy living quarters.

Her 4ft shoal draft with the (5') centreboard up (9' when down) allows her to explore local creeks, rivers and inlets unavailable to other boats.

We have upgraded the systems for blue-water cruising, and have lived aboard along the US east coast and north west Caribbean destinations. 'Sandpiper' has been lovingly maintained and upgraded throughout our nineteen years of ownership - we have worked on her regularly and have recently finished a comprehensive refit with many upgrades (AIS, Power Bank, etc).

Most of all, we want her to be loved, so we are looking for the right price for the right owner's budget.

Accommodations

Her accommodations are simple. Aft, there’s a navigation station to starboard and an aft pipe-berth.

The galley is to port with a Force 10 safety-rated propane stove, large ice box/fridge, and plenty of space and storage.

Her main saloon includes port and starboard settees with a table, and pilot/pullman berths port and starboard, and further storage outboard to port and starboard. The head is abaft, to starboard.

The forepeak has a double berth to port, and storage for storm rodes, drogue and chain.

There’s additional storage forward for anchor rodes, etc and further storage (under the cockpit) contains tools and spares, snorkel and fishing gear, as well as comfortable access to transmission, fuel tanks and steering.

Underfloor Engine is easily accessible from front, rear and top.

Measurements

Length Overall: 38'0"

Length on Deck: 35'0"

Beam: 11'3"

Draft: 3'11" (9'0" with centreboard down)

Displacement: Net 12 T

Ferrocement Hull & Decks

Hull and decks are ferrocement. Marine plywood bulkheads are bolted to ferrocement web frames that are integral to the hull. Fiberglass covered marine plywood cabin and cockpit are bolted to the decks.

• Armature 0.225" spring steel rods run longitudinally on 2" centers
• 0.25" high carbon steel rods run girth-wise on 3" centers
• 1/4" square mesh, 2 layers inboard, 1 layer outboard
• Web Frames rod and mesh tack welded to armature
• Engine Bed - ¼" steel plate self-contained custom bed, integral stringers lag-bolted to oak posts welded and glassed to armature.
• Portland Cement with pozzolan.

• Cabin and Cockpit 3/4" marine plywood covered with fiberglass cloth
• Keel-mounted skeg rudder, with lower cutless-style shoe (¼" 316). 316 stainless steel rudder jaws to 2.5" rudder-post, with nylon upper bearing, stern-post sleeved in fibreglass inside galvanized tube
• Drop-Keel Centreboard 5'0" - fibreglass on ply with lead and stainless steel structure
• Bow pulpit in 316
• Mast 43'0" aluminum, deck-stepped, Metalmast Marine
• Chainplates 316 SS 1/4" bar stock
• Standing Rigging 9/32" SS wire rope with 1/2" SS turnbuckles
• 2" teak platform and 2 bow rollers integrated (rebuilt 2019)

• Plath/Simpson Lawrence bronze windlass.
• Spare mast-mounted Lewmar halyard winches
• Barlow self-tailing sheet winches in cockpit.

Sails & Engines

• 6 sails - working jib, storm jib, 120 Genoa, drifter, main (2 reefs), mizzen (2 reefs), mizzen staysail
• Yanmar 3HM35F
• Protected Shaft and Propeller: PYI dripless seal on 1¼" 322 stainless shaft, refitted with new donut in 2022.
• Mercury 5hp outboard and West Marine Dinghy
• (Unfitted) Profurl roller headsail furling

Tanks & Sanitation

• Diesel - Two fuel tanks holding 40 gallons fuel in total. Three jerry cans with 15 extra gallons.
• Propane: Two Aluminium 20lb tanks, with cutoff sensor.
• Three water bladders with capacity for 420 litres of water. (extra water storage in jerry cans)
• Holding tank 10 gallons, plastic
• Jabsco manual head

Communications & Navigation

• Self-steering Navico/Raymarine WP5000 Wheel Pilot
• (Unfitted) Hasler windvane
• Depth/Speed - Raymarine st60 Seatalk with repeater
• GPS Garmin 210 plotter
• SSB radio ICOM 600 with AT150 Tuner
• Radar: Autohelm/Raymarine ST50
• Standard Horizon GX2150 VHF with AIS
• Standard Horizon HX890 Handheld VHF/GPS

• Force 10 stove in galley two burner with grill and oven.
• Force 10 stainless propane grill/barbecue on deck/pushpit.
• Large capacity well-insulated ice chest (with 5 amp 12v Cold Machine Refrigeration)

Ground tackle

Heavy-duty ground tackle (45lb CQR, 35lb Danforth and a Mud/Maxx Anchor,) 200ft ⅜ chain, 200ft of rode, Parachute Drogue/Sea Anchor, and 600ft of storm rode.

• 2010 rewire, LED lights throughout (excepting halogen spreader light)
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Sparkman & Stephens FINISTERRE

Sail Number: 260

Type: Centerboarder yawl

LOA: 38′ 6″ / 11.76m – LOD: 38′ 6″ / 11.76m – LWL: 27′ 6″ / 8.41m – Beam: 11′ 3″ / 3.44m – Draft: 5′ 10″ / 1.55m – Design Number: 1054 – Rig: Bermudan Yawl – Displacement: 18,640 lb / 8,455 kg – Ballast: 6,160 lb / 2,794 kg – Sail Area: 713 ft2 / 66.24 m2 – Designer: Sparkman & Stephens – Built By: Seth Persson, Old Saybrook, Connecticut – Original Owner: Carleton Mitchell – Designed: 1954

Historical:

Finisterre was built by Seth Persson of Old Saybrook, Connecticut and launched in 1954. The owner chose Sparkman & Stephens in great part due to his relationship with Rod Stephens with whom he had sailed with quite a bit on Rod’s NY32, Mustang. As Mitchell himself said “Although it was my privilege to sail with many of the top sailors of that era, I don’t think anyone else combined knowledge of deck layout, rigging and sails. ” Olin Stephens’ innovative design genius, as exemplified by such diverse vessels as Dorade , which revolutionized ocean racing, and the super-J boat, Ranger , and it was easy to see why S&S was the go-to team.”

Provenance (The Wall of Remembrance – The Owners, Crew & Notable Guest):

Owner/Guardian: (1954) Carleton Mitchell

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Spain’s Finisterre & Muxia – Charming Fishing Villages at Land’s End & Their Camino Ties

By Planet Janet / March 27, 2019 / Solo Travel , Travelogues / Spain

Picturesque Harbor of Finisterre / Click all photos to enlarge / Credit: Deposit Photos

A visit to Spain’s picturesque Atlantic coast is a great addition to any trip to Santiago de Compostela – whether you’re visiting Santiago as a tourist or a pilgrim walking the Camino. Located nearby, the fishing villages of Finisterre & Muxia are both peaceful and charming – with lots to offer visitors.

Credit: On Foot Holidays / Click map to enlarge

The towns lie along Galicia’s Costa da Morte (Coast of Death), named because of the large number of shipwrecks along the rocky & treacherous shores. In Roman times, the area was believed to be the end of the known world. In fact, the name Finisterre comes from Latin FINIS TERRAE, meaning “Land’s End.”

The Camino de Santiago Connection

Both Finisterre & Muxia have deep connections with Spain’s famed Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. For centuries, religious pilgrims from all across Europe would journey by foot (or horseback) to the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela to pay their respects to the Apostle Saint James buried there. The pilgrims would then continue walking out to the sea to collect a seashell as evidence of their successful journey.

Credit: Marcello Kummerer

Fast forward to today. Modern pilgrims walk the Camino for a variety of reasons, not just religious.  Of the multitude of pilgrims who reach Santiago de Compostela, some decide to continue onto Finisterre. The “Camino Finisterre” walk is an additional 90 km (54 miles) and takes 3-4 days.

The pilgrims’ goal is to reach Cape Finisterre & the iconic lighthouse at the tip of the peninsula. There, a popular ritual is having your picture taken by the 0,000 km Camino marker showing that you have, indeed, reached the sea and the end of your Camino journey.

My Visit / Focus of Blog Post

On my 1st Camino, I didn’t have enough time to visit Finisterre & Muxia. Thus, I was determined to do so on my 2nd Camino. Happily, I made it this time – which was June 2018. Plus, I did it the “easy way”– arriving Finisterre not by foot, but by bus and taxi (taking 1 ¼ hours vs. 4 days)!

Click on all photos to enlarge

I spent one night each in Finisterre and Muxia, with only about 1/2 to 2/3 of a day to tour in each place. I did get a good feel for the two delightful towns, but I really would have liked more time. Plus, the weather was often rainy. Hopefully, I’ll be back to walk another Camino, including the route to Finisterre. Thus, I’ll get to see the things I missed the first time, and hopefully in sunshine!

In this blog post, I am sharing highlights of what I did, plus other interesting things you might enjoy on your own visit to Finisterre and/or Muxia. Like me, you can arrange to spend some nights in one or both towns – which is ideal!

Or, if your time is very limited, you can take a full-day tour out of Santiago. I have more details in the last section of the blog under the travel-related information.

FINISTERRE – AKA FISTERRA

The pleasant seaside town of Finisterre (population ~ 5,000) has really grown as a popular visitor destination – attracting regular tourists and pilgrims who have walked the Camino Finisterre. FYI – you’ll see the town is called both Finisterre (Spanish name) and Fisterra (the Galician name).

Finisterre boasts a vibrant fishing port, good seafood restaurants, and a wide variety of accommodations. Plus, the town’s historic center is easy for walking and exploring its peaceful, windy streets. But clearly, the key highlight is a visit out to the Cape. So, let’s start there…

Visit to Cape Finisterre & the Lighthouse

It’s a gorgeous 3.2 km walk (each way!) from town out to the tip of the peninsula, on a gravel path paralleling the main road. All along the way, you have beautiful coastline views on one side and lush forest views on the other.

Upon reaching the point, the famed lighthouse – Faro de Fisterra – comes into view. Built in 1853, the torch of this critically important lighthouse can be seen around 23 miles on a clear day. Because of constant fog in winter, they built an annex in 1888 to emit a low-pitched siren which could be heard for more than 20 miles.

Today, the 2-story fog signal building (sitting on a hill just above the lighthouse) has been renovated and is operating as the small boutique Hotel O Semáforo . The hotel has five rooms, an upscale restaurant, and a café & terrace – all with great views of the rugged coastline. ( below right)

I was interested to learned that Finisterre’s lighthouse is the second most visited tourist destination in all of Galicia, after the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela. Plus, one of the main highlights here – for pilgrims & tourists alike – is getting your photo taken by the Camino marker of 0,000 km. ( like me above )

Another popular activity is watching the sunset from the tip of the Cape. In summer, I’m told hundreds of pilgrims can gather on the rocks by the lighthouse to watch the sun sink below the horizon. However, another pilgrim ritual – that of burning an item of clothing by the cross (to signify the end of the journey) – is no longer permitted.

Unfortunately, there was no sunset viewing for me! I walked to the lighthouse, arriving right around 7pm. Just then, it started to rain & the fog came rolling in. It was okay for exploring, but not great for photos. Plus, the time of sunset on that June day was not until 10:10pm – and the rain continued all evening.  Looks like next trip for the sunset…

Finisterre – Where Fish is King

Finisterre is a traditional fishing village. In addition to tourism, many local people make their living from fishing, as they have done for centuries. Walking down by the picturesque port & fishing harbor is a must. Plus, you can visit their almost-daily Fish Market, which sadly I didn’t have a chance to do.

Finisterre’s modern fish market building was built a few years ago on the side of their port. The Fish Market – called La Lonja – takes place Monday through Friday, starting from 4:00pm. The fish auction begins at 4:45pm. Here, in a big open hall, you can watch the latest catches being auctioned off in a boisterous manner – as fisherman and wholesalers actively negotiate their desired prices.

Pescaderia Reymar & My Fish Dinner

I may have missed the big Fish Market, but I had my own personal encounter with a delightful fish expert. While exploring the town, I passed by the fish shop, Pescaderia Reymar. The shop’s friendly owner Maria Jose motioned me inside. She wanted me to check out the beautiful display of fish she had for sale, which were all fresh from the town’s fishing fleet.

Maria Jose comes from a long line of fisherman – including her father & brother (both late) and her husband – so she really knows her fish! And, she was so very proud to show me her different kinds of colorful fish. They even had bar codes on the paper labels.

There were also some intriguing black & white old photos on the wall. So, in Spanish, I asked Maria Jose about them. The fisherman in the boat with the sardines is her father-in-law ( photo ). Another was her young brother & dad on a boat ( not shown ). I learned that the fisherman work Monday through Saturday – and they start early like 4-5am and return around 6pm. Not an easy life, for sure!

At the end, I asked Maria Jose for a recommendation of a good seafood restaurant – I mean, who better to ask? Turns out, not only did she have a favorite restaurant – Meson Arco de Vella – but she actually left her shop and walked me the two blocks there. So, I had a lovely dinner of grilled prawns, on a second level overlooking the harbor. Yep, despite the rain, it was a very good day!

Castelo de San Carlos – Fishing Museum

You can also visit the town’s mid-18th century Castelo de San Carlos, which has been transformed into a museum of local fishing culture. Entry fee is around €2. Even though I did not visit, it sounds great (per the TripAdvisor reviews ). It will definitely be on my list next time.

The reviewers call this small museum – set on attractive castle grounds – a real gem. You will get the chance to learn about the important history of fishing in Galicia and come to understand the incredible difficulties local fishermen face from the elements, like fog, gales and submerged rocks.

Finisterre Boat Tours / Sunset Cruise

Credit: Crucero Fisterra boat tours

Another popular activity is taking a boat cruise from the Finisterre harbor. Crucero Fisterra offers three different boat trips & routes – one of which is the popular Sunset Tour. Once again, I didn’t have time to take a cruise, but the TripAdvisor reviews are good.

During the season, per the website, Sunset Boat Tours are daily and last 1 ¾ hours. Departure times vary depending on the sunset. Cost is €15. First, you cruise other parts of the coastline before ending up near the Cabo de Finisterre lighthouse for watching the sunset. Apparently, they also provide some Galician music, appetizers, and a glass of wine. Sounds fun!

Credit: Wikimedia Commons – Luis Miguel Bugallo Sánchez

Muxia & The Camino de Santiago

The picturesque fishing village of Muxia is located on a small peninsula, about a 30-minute drive north from Finisterre. The town – with a population of just 2,000 – is an even more peaceful and laid-back place than Finisterre. It’s known for fish, plus its handmade lace.

The town is also a draw for Camino de Santiago pilgrims. There is a Camino route from Finisterre to Muxia, roughly paralleling the coastline. Pilgrims who complete this one day, 28km route get a certificate of completion called the Muxiana. In addition, some pilgrims walk directly to Muxia from Santiago (also 3-4 days), instead of going first to Finisterre.

Nosa Señora da Barca (Our Lady of the Boat)

Credit: Wikimedia Commons -Davidh820

Legend says that the Virgin Mary appeared in a stone boat here in Muxia to deliver a message to the discouraged Saint James (Santiago in Spanish). She informed the Apostle that he had been successful and should return to Jerusalem, his mission in Spain complete. Mary also gave him the image of herself, which is displayed in the church.

The original sanctuary of Our Lady of the Boat was founded in the 12th century on the site of a pre-Christian chapel, and then rebuilt in the 17th century. The large granite stones outside the church are said to be the remains of the Virgin Mary’s stone boat – including the sail, the helm and the boat itself.

My Walk to the Church & Lighthouse

Of course, visiting the Nosa Señora da Barca sanctuary was my main objective in Muxia. From town, it’s a beautiful walk out to the point along a pretty stone-paved promenade on the northeast side of the peninsula. Along the way, you pass the 14th C. Marine-Gothic style Iglesia de Santa Maria de Muxia – which I viewed from the outside. ( photos below )

The short walk affords you gorgeous views of the windy, rough Atlantic seas. It’s no surprise there are wind turbines on the ridge of land across the bay. Plus, at the tip of the point, there’s a simple, lonely lighthouse standing guard.

It makes you wonder how many sailors have been saved from crashing onto the rocky point by this lighthouse. Perhaps, they also received “divine protection” from “Our Lady of the Boat” housed in the famed stone church nearby?

Inside The Church

Visiting the church is a must for all visitors, especially pilgrims who have walked the Camino. In fact, you can get your pilgrim credencial stamped here when the church is open for mass. I got lucky as I happened to be exploring the church area around 6pm, when a side door to the church opened up. So, I followed the other visitors in.

The priest and one male volunteer were inside preparing for the 7pm mass (daily during the summer season). We were welcomed and led back to the sacristy office where the priest himself stamped my pilgrim credencial – giving me the final pilgrim stamp of my Camino journey!

Monte Corpino Hill Views & Holy Mass

Afterwards, I headed back to town to get a quick snack and hot tea, which I needed to warm up from the rainy, blustery afternoon. First, I walked part-way up the tall hill behind the church – called Monte Corpino. From the top, on more hospitable weather days, you can enjoy beautiful views of the Muxia peninsula and town ( like in the photos below ).

I soon returned to the church for the 7pm holy mass. Even though I’m not Catholic, it was a perfect ending to my Camino experience. Plus, it was one more opportunity to view the famed sculpture in the altarpiece showing the Virgin Mary & three angels on a boat speaking with the Apostle James ( below ). Note: If the church happens to be closed when you’re visiting, you can still peer into the church through a grille in the door ( per Lonely Planet ).

As mentioned, the town of Muxia is renowned for its lace. Turns out, there was a small brown wooden hut near the church and lighthouse – called Encaixe de Muxia. So, of course, I had to go inside to check it out. The walls were covered with different crochet & lace items for sale.

Plus, there was an expert lace maker hard at work. It was amazing to watch the lightning speed of this woman’s fingers! Marina told me she’s been making lace since age 4 and is a master teacher in her community for the young women – to ensure the tradition is carried on. I did buy a small lace tissue holder for €8.

My “Last Supper”

After mass, I walked back to town, famished and ready for a good dinner. I found a lovely restaurant named “A De Lolo” which was both elegant & cozy. I had a great meal of a tasty vegetable soup with pasta and my entrée was sautéed veggies with prawns. It was a delightful step-up from the pilgrim meals I had been having along the Camino!

So, yes, this really was my “Last Supper” in Spain. The next day, I would be heading back to Santiago by bus to catch my afternoon train to Madrid. From there, I would be flying home the following day to the States after spending over a month in Spain – a country which never disappoints!

And what a wonderful, albeit whirlwind, two days I had spent in Finisterre & Muxia. These charming fishing villages are both special places & really worth a visit! I hope you have the chance to visit someday, especially if your travels take you to Spain’s Santiago de Compostela or other parts of Galicia.

Travel Logistics for Finisterre & Muxia (from Santiago)

Full-Day Tour From Santiago de Compostela

• Galicia Incoming Services website offers a one-day tour (9am-6:30/7:00pm) for €35.
• It’s called “Tour to Finisterre – Costa da Morte.”
• The tour visits Muros, Ezaro’s Waterfall, Finisterre & Cape Fisterra, and Muxia.

Getting From Santiago to Finisterre

• A taxi takes 1 ¼ hours & costs around €85. It’s not cheap so perhaps you might be able to find some other travelers and/or pilgrims to share the fare.
• You can also catch a bus. MonBus offers several buses a day which takes 2-3 hours (with stops). The bus follows different routes at different times. The most direct bus takes 2 hours.

Getting From Finisterre to Muxia

• You can walk the 28km Camino route between the two towns!
• A taxi (which is what I did) took 30 minutes & cost 30 euros.
• There was a bus for €8, but on Sunday (my travel day), it only had a 9:30am departure.

Getting From Muxia to Santiago

• The direct route by car or taxi takes around 1 ¼ hours. An estimated taxi cost is 90-115 euros.
• You can also take a bus. Group Ferrin looks to be a good option. They have twice daily schedules between Muxia & Santiago via the most direct route.
• For example, depending on the day of the week, the bus departs Muxia at 06:45 & 14:30pm.

Rome2Rio – A Great Website Resource for getting from Point A to B

• Be sure to check out the VERY helpful Rome2Rio website for other ideas.
• Just plug in your From and To – and voila, you’ve got answers!

Town Maps – Courtesy of Village To Village Guides – Camino de Santiago

Lodging – Where I Stayed (and Recommend)

• It has a great central location & a nice café downstairs with friendly staff.
• I had a 4th floor individual room with a balcony and sea view for €50.  (photo to right) 
• I booked Hostal Mariquito through Booking.com
• Map above – it’s #15.

My Pilgrim Hostel (Albergue) in Muxia – Muxia Mare

• It’s a wonderful family run hostel – a delightful mom, dad & daughter!
• They have an 8-bed hostel / dorm room for pilgrims.
• I stayed in one of their 2 individual rooms (with a sea view) for €37.
• I booked Muxia Mare through Booking.com
• They also have upstairs apartment rooms for vacationers.
• Map above – it’s #3.

Another Pilgrim Hostel in Muxia

• The Albergue Bela Muxia has been highly recommended by a pilgrim friend.
• Bela Muxia can be booked through Booking.com

COMMENTS:   Have you visited Finisterre or Muxia?  Was it part of a Camino journey or touring around Galicia?  What were some of your favorite things to do?

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May 10, 2019 at 10:10 am

Sounds like a great time. I’d love to visit!

May 10, 2019 at 1:15 pm

Thanks, Gregory. I”m sure you would really enjoy this very special area.

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Finisterre: A Journey to the End of the World

Finisterre or Fisterra, located in the region of the same name, is a small Spanish town situated in the province of A Coruña. It has about 4,700 inhabitants and today is one of the most important destinations on the Camino de Santiago for pilgrims who decide to continue their pilgrimage beyond Santiago de Compostela to reach the coast.

  It is the second most visited town in Galicia after Compostela. It stands in the corner of Europe and was once identified by the Romans as the end of the earth (Finis Terrae). The sunset in Finisterre is on the bucket list of many, right next to its legendary lighthouse.

  We are every more excited to share with you the amazing tour we are offering as a GIFT to all of our Pilgrims who sign up to one of our 2021 Caminos.

What will you see on our Finisterre Day Trip?

We set out from Santiago towards Finisterre , which is where the known world was believed to have ended in ancient times. Finisterre has always been closely linked to the history of the Camino, and for millions of people – even since pre-Christian times – it has marked the end of their pilgrimage.

Our first stop is the top of the Paxareiras viewpoint. The name refers to the migratory birds ( pájaros ) such as grey herons and teals that fly to Europe from Africa and make their nests in this area. From here, we can see Carnota beach, Cadebarcos lake and on the horizon, the cape of Finisterre. It’s one of the best panoramic views in the whole of the Costa da Morte.

The Costa da Morte gets its name from the ships that have been wrecked on its cliffs over the centuries, and also from the idea that it was where the sun died each night; before the discovery of the Americas, it was thought that there was absolutely nothing beyond the coast’s western-most tip. The coast is rugged, beaten by fierce storms and heavy snowfall in winter. This gave the place a mysterious, magical aura, but also caused countless naval disasters, which obliged the old lighthouses to convert to electric power.

Next, we head back down to sea level to follow the coastline from Muros to Cee. In this area, we can see a large number of old stone granaries called hórreos . They were designed during the era of Spanish conquest in the Americas to store corn, a newly imported crop, and become popular during the 18 th century. On the way to Cee, we’ll see some of the best-preserved hórreos including the “ eira de Panchés ”, which has more than twenty.

We make a stop in the town of Ézaro , next to Monte Pindo, to see the waterfall created by River Xallas. This is the only river in Europe which cascades directly into the sea. The waterfall is one of the most beautiful spots in the peninsula. As seen from Finisterre, Monte Pindo is where the sun seems to rise from each morning. This is interesting, because the Cape of Finisterre has long been an ancient “temple”, dedicated to the sun. From Finisterre, ancient pilgrims could see the sun rising from behind the sharp rocks of Mmonte Pindo, and setting into the water of the Atlantic Ocean.

Finisterre Light House – Cape of Finisterre

We continue on towards the Cape of Finisterre and head behind the lighthouse to visit the spot in which pilgrims traditionally burned their old clothes as part of a purification ritual. At the cape, we can see a number of monuments, as well as the edge of the cliffs and the pilgrim kilometer zero . This place is extremely symbolic for the many pilgrims who choose to end their journey here. And even in the modern era, we can see ancient rites of renewal, symbolizing a new beginning. In the same way that the sun sets in order to rise once again, so the Camino de Santiago ends in order to give us a new beginning in our lives.

We have lunch down in the village of Finisterre ( Fisterra in Galician). O’Centolo is the best restaurant in town, offering unbeatable views over the port and a menu based on the freshest seafood that the Galician sea can provide.

After lunch, and before heading back to Santiago, we have one more visit: Muxía . This coastal town is the other major endpoint of the Camino de Santiago. In the movie The Way, Muxía is where Martin Sheen and his fellow pilgrims finish their adventures.

The Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de la Barca (Our Lady of the Boat) is battered by waves every time there is a big storm. The church is situated right at the entrance of the Camariñas estuary, and it boasts fabulous views of the rugged coastline – whose granite rocks ( pedra dos cadrís )  provide healing and good luck, according to Marian tradition – and an amazing view of the cliffs of Finisterre.

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VESSEL REVIEW | Sinichka – Electric commuter boats designed for Russia’s Moskva River

A series of three new electric monohull commuter ferries have already begun operational sailings on the Moskva River in the Russian capital Moscow.

Built by Russian shipyard Emperium, sister vessels Sinichka , Filka , and Presnya – all named after rivers in Moscow – are being operated by the Moscow Department of Transport and Road Infrastructure Development (Moscow Deptrans). They are the first units of a planned fleet of 20 vessels that will serve the capital city and other nearby communities. The new ferry system will be the water transport system to be operated on the Moskva River in 16 years.

Each vessel has a welded aluminium hull, an LOA of 21 metres, a beam of 6.2 metres, a draught of only 1.4 metres, a displacement of 40 tonnes, and capacity for 80 passengers plus two crewmembers. Seating is available for 42 passengers on each ferry, and the main cabins are also fitted with USB charging ports, wifi connectivity, tables, toilets, and space for bicycles and scooters. The cabin layout can be rearranged to allow the operator to adjust the distances between the seats and to install armrests of varying widths.

An open upper deck is also accessible to passengers and is the only area on each ferry where smoking is allowed.

The ferries are all of modular construction with each ferry’s wheelhouse, main cabin, and other structural elements being built as complete, separate components. This enables the ferries to be easily dismantled for transport to anywhere in Russia by rail and then quickly re-assembled within seven days.

The ferries are also ice-capable. Recently completed operational trials on the Moskva showed that the vessels can also easily navigate under mild winter conditions with broken surface ice, though year-round operations are planned for the entire fleet.

The ferries are each fitted with 500kWh lithium iron phosphate battery packs that supply power to two 134kW motors. This configuration can deliver a maximum speed of 11.8 knots, a cruising speed of just under 10 knots, and a range of 150 kilometres.

Emperium said the transfer of rotation of electric motors to the propeller is carried out by direct drive. As a propulsion installation, a pulling rotary propeller-steering column with double screws is used. The installation of double pulling screws, with similar power, allows an operator to increase the efficiency of the propulsion system to deliver a slightly higher speed or to reduce energy consumption. This arrangement also provides the ferries with enhanced manoeuvrability necessary for navigating in close quarters.

The batteries themselves have projected service lives of 10 to 12 years and are fitted with safety features such as built-in fire extinguishers and gas vents. Quick-disconnect features allow the batteries to be easily removed for replacement or maintenance.

Some of our readers have expressed disquiet at our publication of reviews and articles describing new vessels from Russia. We at Baird Maritime can understand and sympathise with those views. However, despite the behaviour of the country’s leaders, we believe that the maritime world needs to learn of the latest developments in vessel design and construction there.

Click here to read other news stories, features, opinion articles, and vessel reviews as part of this month’s Passenger Vessel Week.

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Tags: Emperium Filka Moscow Moscow Department of Transport and Road Infrastructure Development Moskva River Presnya Russia Sinichka WBW newbuild

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

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Equipped with ice-breaking technology, these huge fancy yachts are the only river cruisers running all year around. The round trip journey takes two and a half hours and floats past all the big sights like the White House, Novodevichy monastery and the Kremlin. There’s a large open air observation deck up top, while the main body of the ship houses a restaurant with a dance floor for a romantic post dinner dance. For a particularly romantic experience take one of the evening boats and admire the bright lights of the city skyline at night.

The most relaxing and picturesque tour that Moscow can offer: a great way to see the city center and its main attractions. This is a perfect alternative to exploring the city by car, if you only have time to do sightseeing during weekday rush hours.

Your English-speaking guide is eager to share every bit of their knowledge about the surrounding landscape, the architecture and historical details.

We conduct Moscow river tour on Radisson Flotilla boats all year around!  It’s warm inside during winter months, while there’s air conditioning during hot summer days. You may also treat yourself to drinks, lunch or dinner on board (drinks and food are not included in tour price).

The cost of an excursion with a personal guide for 1 person

Quay at Radisson Collection Hotel

Government Headquarters ("the White House")

Kievsky Railway Central

Novodevichy Convent

Luzhniki Stadium

Academy of Sciences

Monument to Peter I

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Moscow Kremlin

St.Basil's Cathedral

Novospassky Monastery

U-turn and back to Quay at Radisson Royal Hotel

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