Norfolk & Wash Sailing Experience – On Victorious, a 1923 Gaff-Rigged Smack Step aboard Victorious, a 1923 gaff-rigged sea-going sailing smack, and enjoy a hands-on traditional coastal adventure along the Norfolk coast and the Wash. Robust, stable, and exceptionally safe, Victorious is designed for open-sea passages on the North Sea, offering an authentic taste of life aboard a classic working sailing vessel. Trips usually depart from our HQ in Wells-Next-the-Sea, though we sometimes set sail from her winter base at Fosdyke, the discrete gateway to the Wash historically frequented by the Duke of Edinburgh for wild fowling. Led by experienced skippers, the experience is limited to eight guests, allowing participants to learn the ropes, hoist and trim sails, steer, and read coastal conditions. The trip also emphasizes wildlife observation, with opportunities to spot seabirds, coastal mammals, and marine life along the route. Each trip includes a pause for breakfast or lunch/supper, with hot tea or coffee, and the optional wild swim when conditions allow. From calm coastal waters to exposed open-sea stretches, Victorious offers an authentic connection to traditional sailing and maritime heritage. Designed for small groups, the experience prioritises learning, observation, and immersion in the coastal environment, making it suitable for both newcomers and experienced sailors. Routes are dictated by wind and tide and shaped in close discussion with guests, ensuring every sail is unique.
