Baltic Sea 2024 : Impressions.

    Our first sailing trip in 2024 on Baltic Sea is done!

    Here is small report, how it went and what did we do during the trip :-)

    First of all, this is report about[I want to try] Lets try sailing! Baltic edition, so you can read and have picture for yourself, how it looks like to sail the baltic gem. And of course JOIN to our next sailing trips!

    It was a great time, especially in early Mai as there weren't many tourists, but the weather was already warm, and we had enough wind for a relaxing sail. We couldn't go to Rügen as planned because of the wind forecast, so we headed to the Denmark.

    I want to share some of our experiences with you, hoping it will inspire you to go on a similar trip with your friends and family. The Baltic Sea is amazing, with beautiful coast, a lot of sailing and charming villages. Picture sailing between meriade of other yachts, heavy tankers, finding the best wind and enjoying delicious local food at cozy restaurants by the sea.

    Since there weren't many people around, we got to enjoy the natural beauty and peace of the area. It's a perfect place for a quiet vacation, whether you're going with friends or your family. So, if you're thinking about your next vacation, consider the Baltic Sea. The memories we made on this sailing trip are priceless, and I hope you'll be inspired to have a similar adventure soon. It's a fantastic experience that's both relaxing and exciting.

    • Our floating home for the next couple of days

      Our first task was to locate our yacht, and we were delighted to discover that it would be a Bavaria 34 Cruiser named "Tamara," perfectly suited for our adventure on Baltic Sea. This elegant and well-appointed vessel promised not only comfort but also the ideal platform for our sailing experience over the upcoming week of sailing. Its spacious interior, state-of-the-art navigation equipment, and excellent sailing capabilities ensured that our novices' journey would be both enjoyable and educational. We couldn't wait to step aboard and begin our unforgettable voyage.

    • Important task - crew instructions, training and food!

      As always, we've packed our supplies, the crew is ready, and we've reviewed safety instructions. It's time to set sail! Our first task is to teach the crew the basics of operating the yacht. For some, it's their first time at the helm, so learning the compass and directions takes a bit longer. Others, with some experience, just need a quick refresher. Once everyone is comfortable steering the 5-ton vessel, we set our course for Gedser, a charming town on the southern tip of Falster.

    • Course on Gedser - on motor first.

      With little to no wind, we had to rely on our "iron sails"—the motor. While this wasn't ideal for pure sailing enthusiasts, it had a silver lining. The steady engine allowed the crew to acclimate to the gentle swaying of the small waves without the added challenge of managing the sails. This helped everyone, especially the newcomers, to get their sea legs and avoid any bouts of seasickness. The calm conditions provided a perfect environment for easing into the rhythm of life on the water.

    • We had to test the Spi.

      After navigating the busy Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS), we seized the opportunity to hoist our largest and most vibrant sail—the spinnaker. It looked magnificent as it unfurled, adding a splash of color to the horizon. The spinnaker pulled strongly, showcasing its power and beauty. However, it soon became clear that it was catching the wind from the wrong direction, so our trial run was brief. Despite this, the short test was a thrilling moment that highlighted the potential of our sails.

    • Round up of first sailing day.

      Shortly after arriving in Gedser, we enjoyed a delightful dinner followed by a stroll through the quaint, cozy town. The charm of Gedser was evident in its picturesque streets and friendly atmosphere. We ended up at a local bar, where the evening took a fun turn with a round of billiards. Despite my best efforts, I ended up losing the game, but the laughter and camaraderie made it a memorable part of our visit. The warm hospitality of the locals truly made us feel at home.

    • Chilling sailing towards north.

      The next day, we set sail for Stubbekøbing. Rounding the cape, we hoisted the sails and let the light breeze carry us gently northward. The serene conditions made for a peaceful and pleasant journey, with the soft wind filling our sails and the rhythmic sound of the waves providing a soothing backdrop. As we glided over the clear waters, the beauty of the Baltic Sea unfolded around us, promising another day of discovery and adventure ahead.

    • Gracioso sailing to the Stubbekobing

      As we neared the entrance to the Stubbekøbing channel, we took the opportunity to hoist our finest sail. The wind was perfect, aligning beautifully with our course. This allowed us to enjoy a smooth and exhilarating run towards the channel. The sail billowed majestically, and the yacht glided effortlessly over the water, making the most of the favorable conditions. The approach was a true highlight of the day, showcasing the synergy between the wind, the sail, and our vessel as we made our way to the beginning of the channel.

    • MC Museum of Stubbekobing

      In Stubbekøbing, we explored the local motorcycle museum, an absolute treasure trove for enthusiasts. Inside, we had the rare opportunity to get up close to some of the most iconic and rare bikes in history. The collection was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing engineering marvels like vintage Harleys, Peugeots, Zündapps, and many other legendary models. Each bike told a story of innovation and craftsmanship, making the visit truly captivating.

      Inspired and with a sense of awe, we then gathered supplies for a BBQ and prepared for our return journey to Gedser. The sail back was filled with anticipation for a delightful evening ahead, enjoying good food and great company, while reflecting on the day's discoveries and the remarkable machines we had seen.

    • Colourful return to Gedser.

      Our return journey to Gedser was bathed in glorious sunshine, a welcomed change from the previous day's chilly weather. The warmth of the sun enveloped us as we sailed swiftly back, a rarity that added an extra layer of enjoyment to the trip. The vibrant colors of our spinnaker danced in the breeze, casting playful reflections on the sparkling water below.

      As we leaned into the wind, the boat surged forward with newfound energy, gliding effortlessly across the waves. The sight of the colorful sail billowing against the backdrop of the clear blue sky brought smiles to our faces, a vivid reminder of the joy and freedom that sailing brings. With each gust of wind, we felt invigorated, embracing the moment and relishing the beauty of the Baltic Sea.

    • Flying dutchman.

      As we sailed onward, our idyllic journey took an unexpected turn as a thick blanket of fog descended upon us. Suddenly, visibility became limited, and the once clear horizon was shrouded in mist. In the eerie silence of the fog, our senses heightened, and every sound seemed magnified.

      As if from the depths of a mystery novel, a looming silhouette emerged from the fog—a Dutch ship, appearing almost ghostly in its obscured form. The sight sent a shiver down our spines, evoking images straight out of a suspenseful movie scene. The air was heavy with anticipation as we watched the spectral vessel draw nearer.

      To add to the surreal atmosphere, faint echoes of chanting sailors drifted through the fog, sending chills down our spines. It was a moment that seemed to transcend reality, enveloping us in a surreal blend of wonder and apprehension. Despite the goosebumps and the spine-tingling sensation, there was a thrill in the encounter, a reminder of the untamed and unpredictable nature of the sea.

    • Secret visitor

      As the fog gradually lifted, a curious sound filled the air—a deep, rhythmic breathing that seemed oddly out of place amidst the quiet of the sea. At first, I wondered if there was a mechanical issue with the engine, but as I turned to investigate, my eyes widened in amazement.

      There, just off the port side of the yacht, a magnificent Baltic whale surfaced, its sleek form breaking through the surface of the water with graceful ease. In that moment, time seemed to stand still as we shared a fleeting connection with this majestic creature.

      I raised a hand in greeting, and to my surprise, the whale responded with a playful flick of its tail before disappearing into the distance. It was as if the gentle giant had come to say "hello," leaving us in awe of the wonders that lay beneath the waves.

      The crew erupted into cheers and applause, their faces lit up with excitement and wonder. Seeing a whale in the Baltic Sea was a rare and unforgettable experience, a reminder of the beauty and magic that can be found in the most unexpected of places.

    • Blissful run to Rostock

      The following day, we embarked on our journey back to Warnemünde, blessed with a perfect half beam reach course that promised a swift passage. Eager to make the most of the favorable conditions, we set our sights on catching up with other yachts dotting the horizon.

      As we raced across the waves, the excitement of the chase fueled our determination, and before we knew it, we had completed the crossing in just 4.5 hours—an impressive feat that left us feeling accomplished. While we could have pushed for even greater speed, we were satisfied with our time, considering the circumstances.

      In a final exhilarating sail with the spinnaker, we tested the limits of both the sail's delicate material and the autopilot's ability to maintain course in the face of increasing winds. With each gust, we felt the tension mounting, but our careful handling prevented any mishaps. As the wind continued to pick up, I made the split-second decision to drop the spinnaker just in time, averting any potential danger.

    • Industrial charm and backstone gotics of Rostock

      The following day, our journey took us through the bustling industrial channel to Rostock, where we found unexpected beauty amidst the industrial hustle and bustle. As we navigated through the busy waterway, we couldn't help but appreciate the unique charm of the industrial landscape.

      Arriving in Rostock, we were pleasantly surprised by the city's rich history and architectural splendor. Beautiful streets lined with charming cafes beckoned us to explore, while majestic churches repurposed into apartment buildings added a touch of grandeur to the skyline. The atmosphere was vibrant and lively, with the scent of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the sounds of laughter and chatter from the bustling streets.

      We couldn't resist the allure of the city's vibrant kirmes, or fairgrounds, where we indulged in delicious treats and enjoyed the festive atmosphere. Rostock captivated us with its blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy, leaving us eager to explore every corner of this enchanting city.

    • Cherry on top - parking the yacht like pro

      To conclude our journey, we decided to challenge ourselves with a round of demanding training: parking the yacht in reverse into a tight berth. Naturally, it was the newbie's turn to take the helm for this task. With determination and focus, she expertly maneuvered the yacht, slowly guiding it towards the pier while I prepared to secure the lines.

      As she skillfully navigated the yacht into position, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and admiration, much like the characters in the movie "Dune" riding the giant sandworms. Here, however, our adventure was aboard the yacht, and the thrill of mastering such a challenging maneuver was exhilarating.

      In that moment, as we smoothly docked the yacht, it felt like a triumph—a testament to our teamwork, perseverance, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from conquering a difficult task together. It was a fitting end to our sailing journey, leaving us with memories to cherish and stories to tell for years to come.

    Here is also a short summary as a cheeryfull video. Enjoy!

    Conclusion

    Looking forward to come to the Baltic again!

    Reach us

                     

    Wise man said:

    "The sea finds out everything you did wrong."

    ―Francis Stokes

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