Fastnet Rock Sail

Rounding the the iconic Fastnet Rock is one of the ambitions most sailors seek to achieve. Why not achieve that dream in style on our Hallberg-Rassy yacht Merlin. You will probably have heard the name Fastnet as the sea area used by the Shipping Forecasts on BBC's Radio 4. The current lighthouse is the second to be built on the rock and is the highest in Ireland.

You may also have heard of the Fastnet Race on which the Fastnet Rock is used as the midpoint of the 1,126 kilometres (700 mi) round trip from Cowes on the Isle of Wight, rounding the rock and the return leg to Plymouth. It is also sometimes used as a mark for yacht races from local sailing centres such as Schull and Baltimore.

On the Fastnet Rock sail we leave Dunmanus Bay and head south pass Three Castle Head and the Mizen lighthouse. The Fastnet Rock is situated approximately 9 miles offshore from the Mizen. A freshly made packed lunch is served during this phase of the cruise but you are welcome to have tea, coffee & biscuits whenever you wish. As far as possible our products are sourced from local producers.

During this sail you will have exclusive use of our yacht Merlin and of our qualified skippers/instructors, who encourage active participation from those who want to or just simply relax and enjoy the beautiful West Cork scenery and the Fastnet Rock of course!

The coast of West Cork is rich in sea life, so expect to be visited by the local dolphins, humpback whales and seals who are always curious and love to show off alongside sailing yachts.

Day sailors just need to bring warm clothes, basic waterproofs, flat soft sole shoes/trainers, camera and sun tan cream! Safety gear is supplied.