2024-1 | FALKEN | Lagos-Las Palmas
The Passage
Rough itinerary
All 59º North passages are very much subject to weather. We pick our routes based on the "correct" time of year to be sailing in the different regions we visit, and we always build-in enough time to give us some margin for weather windows. The skipper has final say on departure dates and weather windows, but generally speaking, the intinerary for this passage will look like this:
January 6, 2024
Crew arrive to FALKEN at 1300 in Lagos, Portugal. FALKEN orientation followed by crew dinner. All crew stay onboard FALKEN.
Prep Days
Between the joining and departure dates, all pre-passage preparation, provisioning, and safety briefings will be completed. The specific pre-departure schedule will be outlined and posted onboard FALKEN by the skipper.
January 8, 2024
Scheduled departure, weather dependent.
January 13, 2024
Latest date (12:00 noon) for crew to depart FALKEN from Las Palmas, Canary Islands.
TRAVEL LOGISTICS
Lagos
Las Palmas
Weather conditions
Expect a brisk, lively passage with the cool Atlantic air keeping things crisp—likely some boisterous following seas and fresh breeze on the beam, so dress warm, settle into the motion, and enjoy a proper downwind romp south toward sunnier latitudes.
In-depth analysis, by WRI
WHY 59º NORTH?
ambitious sailing schedule
The best boats
WOMEN BUNKS GUARANTEED
Professional, well-paid staff
knowledge & community
Why it costs what it costs...
"I truly enjoyed the entire experience. I went to gain confidence and understanding of offshore sailing, build my skills as a sailor, and have fun—this trip did not disappoint. Our captain, Paul Exner, had a relaxed and friendly coaching style, walking us through decision points and sharing his thought process, which was invaluable. I loved sailing on ISBJØRN; my only regret was that the trip had to end. Thanks to 59º North for such a dynamic experience!"
"The trip delivered on all my expectations and more. I wanted to experience sailing beyond my current boundaries, apply my skills, and learn from those around me. I felt able to embrace the whole experience because we had an excellent 59º North team that shaped us into a great crew on a well-prepared boat. If you are seeking ocean wisdom, you could not be in better hands."
"This was my second trip with 59º North, and once again it was absolutely fantastic. The crew quickly became a friendly, supportive team, and living in close quarters felt natural and easy. Jon set the perfect tone as skipper, sharing his knowledge with clarity and patience, and Mia’s behind-the-scenes planning made everything seamless. Sailing with 59º North is about growing as a sailor, sharing adventure, and making lasting memories."
"It was such an experience! Meeting all the people and being part of the crew is something very special. We were so lucky to spend the passage on FALKEN; the nature and weather gave us the best, and I really wish it could have lasted longer."
"I'm AKA Andy’s Dad, so my opinion of the skipper may be slanted a bit. I admit to being wrong on my initial reaction to FALKEN—at first sight she seemed like a hard-to-handle race boat, but she is easy to handle and shrinks once you get used to her. The refit work done below is flawless, with comfortable bunks, a spacious galley, and plenty of storage. A trip with 59º North on any of their boats is truly a life-changing experience. Highly recommended!"
"Sailing from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas with 59º North Sailing was an outstanding experience that I would recommend to anyone seeking offshore sailing combined with exceptional instruction and seamanship. The lead crew, Andy, Mary, and Ryan, created a professional and welcoming environment focused on safety, preparation, and teamwork. I came away with much more confidence in offshore sailing and a deeper understanding of ocean passagemaking. 59º North delivers an authentic offshore experience, expert leadership, and an adventure that builds both skills and confidence."
THE BOAT
Farr 65
'
FALKEN
'
🇬🇧
FALKEN is ideally set up for long-distance offshore sailing. We fully rebuilt the boat in 2022 to our exacting specifications and with the help of legendary yacht designer Bob Perry. She's comfortable belowdecks and each crew has their own dedicated sea berth & gear locker. On deck she has a huge cockpit which easily seats 10 people for our daily meals offshore, and allows for plenty of room to move about when handling lines and trimming sails. She's also easy to maintain, fast and fun to sail! FALKEN sails with 8 crew plus a Skipper & Mate and the occasional apprentice.
packing lists & notes
End of a passage
Just gotta say, these past 5 days with the FALKEN crew on the boat were like living in a dream. Chris, Libby, Mark, Kelley, Rich, and Tim, you guys made it epic.In our crazy world, it's so easy to be stuck thinking about the past or stressing about what's next. But man, being in the moment, staring at stars, catching sunrises and sunsets – that's what’s all about!
Day 4 at-sea
Day 4 and we are all now falling into the regular routine of life at sea - the times of our different watches, the writing up of the hourly log and the drinking of coffee. On this trip there has been a lot of coffee drinking. Everyone’s appetites have improved as we have found our sea legs and we all want it to carry on for longer.
Day 3 at sea
We were hoping for another swim in the ocean as the wind died, but the swell is a bit too big so we opted for the second best, a warm shower on the aft deck. I will start cooking dinner in about two hours, we have been eating at 1730 to have dinner before the sun sets. It is getting warmer as we are heading south and I am in shorts and t-shirt for the first time since leaving Portugal. Life is good onboard :)
Day 2
On a more personal note this trip has been brilliant, we left with plenty of time to get there and it has meant that we have been able to stop and enjoy the surroundings more often, trying to sail through the light winds instead of motoring through them and the chance to go for ocean swims which is always a highlight.
Day 1
Throughout the morning we had a perfect sail, 6 knots in light airs and a gorgeous flat ocean. As the wind eased we hove to and went for an ocean swim and a hot water shower. Feeling refreshed we got underway again with a strengthening ESE wind and the dolphins arrived speed us on our way.
pre-departure
After our last passage in November, FALKEN has been on the hard in Portimao getting a few upgrades and some well deserved love after a busy 2023 season. Adam and Alex arrived on Tuesday night, Adam finishing some project on FALKEN and Alex will be our skipper for this leg. We splashed on Wednesday and motored over to the marina, no sails since they have been at the sailmaker getting looked over and cleaned.