Bermuda Bound
720 miles of Open Ocean and a Gulf Stream Crossing
Starting to Sell Out. Only 8 Spots Still Available!
Set your sights on the open sea and join Arabella for Bermuda Bound, a true blue-water expedition across the Atlantic. This is not a race — it’s an authentic ocean-sailing experience that takes you beyond the horizon and through the Gulf Stream on a voyage to Bermuda.
For sailors and adventurers alike, Bermuda Bound is a rare opportunity to experience the power and beauty of ocean passage-making under professional guidance. You’ll stand watch, trim sails, navigate celestial courses, and learn the rhythms of life offshore — sunrise at sea, stars that fill the night sky, and the thrill of steering a 157-foot schooner through the deep blue Atlantic.
This voyage is ideal for anyone who dreams of ocean sailing but wants to do it with the comfort, safety, and camaraderie that only Arabella can provide. Our team will prepare you for the journey with safety briefings and seamanship instruction, ensuring you are confident and ready to take part in every aspect of the adventure.
Arabella has crossed between New York and Bermuda many times. Her strength, stability, and luxury make her the perfect platform for this experience — a yacht where adventure meets elegance.
Whether you are building offshore miles, seeking challenge and discovery, or simply yearning to do something extraordinary — Bermuda Bound is your chance to become part of the ocean-going tradition of sailors who have crossed the Gulf Stream, sailed to Bermuda and found themselves transformed by the journey.
Ocean Adventure & Skill Building
Bermuda Bound is not a race — it’s a true ocean-sailing expedition designed for sailors who want to deepen their seamanship and experience the thrill of navigating offshore. This voyage offers an authentic taste of blue-water cruising, combining teamwork and the excitement of crossing the Gulf Stream. This journey is a stepping stone to future adventures — a chance to build confidence, earn offshore miles, and develop the skills needed for more ambitious passages in the years ahead. Each participant joins the crew of Arabella to stand watch, trim sails, and navigate one of the most storied routes in the North Atlantic — an unforgettable experience that blends education, adventure, and camaraderie on the open sea.
Preparation & Training
Preparation for Bermuda Bound begins with two optional but encouraged training deliveries designed to build confidence and teamwork underway. The first passage takes place November 10, as Arabella sails from New York to Newport. The second follows on November 18, returning from Newport to New York.
Each training voyage covers approximately 140 nautical miles and includes two nights living aboard. These sessions offer hands-on experience in navigation, watchkeeping, sail handling, and offshore seamanship — essential skills for the ocean crossing ahead.
Participation in both training deliveries is included in the expedition entry fee, giving every sailor the chance to practice real-world skills, get to know their crewmates, and prepare for the adventure of crossing the Gulf Stream to Bermuda.
Crossing the Gulf Stream
The heart of Bermuda Bound is the Gulf Stream crossing — one of the great passages in ocean sailing. This powerful river of warm water flowing through the Atlantic challenges sailors to read the sea, understand weather patterns, and navigate with precision. It’s a journey that blends adventure, skill, and the timeless art of seamanship.
As Arabella sails south into deep blue waters, participants experience the thrill of open ocean life — rolling swells, shifting currents, and brilliant night skies filled with stars. Dolphins often join the bow, and flying fish skim across the waves. Each mile brings a deeper connection to the ocean and to the proud tradition of sailors who have made this crossing for centuries.
While not a race, Bermuda Bound carries the same spirit of exploration and camaraderie that defines great sea voyages — an experience that is both challenging and deeply rewarding.
Finishing in Bermuda
The journey concludes in the beautiful harbor of Hamilton, Bermuda, where Arabella will dock at the world-renowned Hamilton Princess Hotel & Beach Club — Bermuda’s “Pink Palace” and a landmark of island elegance for more than a century.
After days at sea and a successful Gulf Stream crossing, sailors are welcomed by turquoise waters, gentle trade winds, and the unmistakable charm of Bermuda. The Hamilton Princess provides the perfect setting to celebrate this achievement — a place to relax, reconnect, and share sea stories surrounded by comfort and luxury.
Family and friends are warmly invited to fly down and join the celebration at the finish line. They can enjoy their own mini-vacation, strolling the island’s pink-coral beaches, exploring local shops and harbors, and soaking up Bermuda’s vibrant culture — from the lively Swizzle Inn to sunset dinners overlooking the sea.
The reunion in Bermuda transforms Bermuda Bound into something truly special — not just an ocean voyage, but a shared experience that brings everyone together in one of the most beautiful island destinations in the world.
The Itinerary – 6 Days & 5 Nights
Wednesday, December 3, 2025
Board Arabella at 8 am to be ready to cast off at 9. The final provisions will be loaded and safety checks completed. Then Arabella will slip her mooring and head down the harbor, under the Verrazzano Narrows Bridge and out into the ocean.
Wednesday – Saturday, Dec 3 – 6, 2025
Arabella will sail through the high seas and the Gulf Stream in the North Atlantic as we head towards Bermuda. When there is wind, Arabella will proceed under sail and in the event of calm, she will continue under engine power to give the best chances of an arrival before Saturday evening.
Friday, December 5, 2025
Suggested arrivals in Bermuda for any family or friends who are meeting you at the finish line. Catch an evening flight from NYC and arrive on island after a short flight. Check into the Hamilton Princess Hotel for the evening and enjoy their outdoor pool the next morning. As Arabella gets closer to Bermuda, you will be able to use our Starlink internet connection to message your supporters that you are getting close so they can be there at the dock to offer congratulations when you arrive.
Saturday or Sunday, December 6 or 7, 2025
Arabella will arrive and secure herself to the pier. Then the celebrations begin! You will be able to step onshore and kiss the ground. You will be able to pop some champagne and spray your fellow crew members. Depending on the arrival time, we will gather that evening or the following day for the Grand Celebration Dinner all the sailors, crew and the family and friend who have traveled down to Bermuda to support their sailors. The toasts will abound and the festivities be high throughout this evening,
Sunday or Monday December 7 or 8, 2025
An optional departure day as everyone flies back to the US following the successful completion of their Bermuda Bound Expedition. Or you can just stay in Bermuda for a few more days of sightseeing and vacation. (Please keep in mind as an ocean passage, this schedule can be delayed.)
Yes, I want to join Bermuda Bound!
This expedition is open to 12 Adventurers only.
The entry fee is $3,800 per person.
FAQs
Where do we meet Arabella?
You will meet Arabella at the Manhattan Yacht Club in Jersey City. This is where the adventure will begin. We will finish in Bermuda.
Do I need to be a sailor to participate?
Not necessarily as long as you are an adventurer and physically fit. The people who sign up are usually sailors, since doing an ocean passage is one of the great sailing experiences. If you do not have any sailing experience, you will be trained on basic seamanship during the expedition. But you should not expect to learn sailing fundamentals on a voyage like this.
If you would like to start your sailing career, we encourage you to enroll in a next available Basic Sailing course at the Manhattan Sailing School.
How much will be expected of me during Bermuda Bound?
Bermuda Bound is a true sailing expedition, not a sightseeing cruise. Every participant will be an active member of the crew and share in the responsibilities of sailing Arabella across open ocean.
You’ll stand watch alongside our professional sailors — both day and night — learning the rhythm of life at sea. You’ll take the helm and steer Arabella through blue water, trim sails, adjust course, and help with navigation and lookout duties. These hands-on experiences are what make Bermuda Bound so rewarding — you’re not just a passenger, you’re part of the team.
Our professional crew will provide continuous guidance, ensuring safety and teaching as you go. You’ll learn practical seamanship and gain insight into offshore strategy, weather routing, and watch organization. By the time Arabella reaches Bermuda, you’ll have earned real blue-water experience and the satisfaction of having helped sail a 157-foot schooner across the Gulf Stream.
This is adventure with purpose — the perfect opportunity for sailors who want to build skill, confidence, and sea time while being part of something truly extraordinary.
Will I have a chance to steer the boat or trim the sheets?
Absolutely. During Bermuda Bound, every participant will have the opportunity to take the helm and handle the sails under the guidance of our professional crew. You’ll stand watch, steer Arabella through open ocean, trim sheets, adjust course, and help keep this magnificent 157-foot schooner moving efficiently across the Gulf Stream.
This is a hands-on adventure, not a spectator experience. Our crew will teach you proper technique, share insights into navigation and sail trim, and ensure you gain real blue-water sailing experience. Whether you’re building skills or fulfilling a lifelong dream of steering a tall yacht offshore, Bermuda Bound gives you that chance — safely, confidently, and as part of a true team at sea.
How should I pack?
Even though Arabella is a 157-foot schooner, space onboard is always at a premium — so pack light and pack smart. Bring your gear in a soft duffel bag that can be folded and stowed easily in your cabin. Hard suitcases are discouraged, as they take up too much space and can’t be stored efficiently.
Since Bermuda Bound is an ocean passage, be prepared for a range of weather conditions. The first part of the voyage — before reaching the warmth of the Gulf Stream — can be cool and occasionally wet. We recommend bringing:
– A good set of foul-weather gear (jacket and bibs)
– Waterproof sea boots
– Warm base layers or thermal undergarments for night watches
– A wool hat or beanie, and a light pair of gloves
Once we reach the Gulf Stream, you’ll appreciate having lighter clothing for the warmer conditions — t-shirts, shorts, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
There are no laundry facilities onboard, so bring enough clothing to last the trip. Most sailors find that a small, well-chosen wardrobe works best. A few comfortable changes for time off watch and a nice outfit for arrival celebrations in Bermuda are all you’ll need.
Packing efficiently not only makes life onboard easier — it’s part of learning to live like a true sailor at sea.
Are there electrical outlets in the cabins?
Yes. Each of the cabins has individual 110 volt electrical outlets. You will be able to charge your phone and computer each night. You can also run a hair dryer.
Are linens included?
Yes. The staterooms are fully stocked with linens and towels. Each cabin has a set of sheets, four pillows plus a fleece blanket and bed cover.
What is the situation with bathrooms and showers?
Each cabin also has its own private head (the nautical word for toilet), shower, and air conditioning. You will have privacy and be able to keep your room at your preferred temperature. However, water on a yacht is precious and we have to make all the water using our new Parker Aquamatic watermaker. Because our water supply is limited, please help us conserve it by taking “navy” showers.