Sailing Schedules

Current offerings

Non-stop offshore passage from Lankawi to Sri Lanka. This passage delivers classic tradewind sailing at its best, riding the northeast monsoon across the eastern Indian Ocean. Consistent northeasterly winds, manageable seas and predictable weather create fast, comfortable passage making with minimal motoring. It's an ideal introduction to bluewater sailing - efficient, confidence-building and deeply rewarding - ending on the culturally rich shores of Sri Lanka. This voyage focuses on ocean sailing, watch schedules and daily boat operations. Crew will take part in navigation, sail handling and general passage-making duties. Ideal for those seeking solid offshore sailing experience.

Lankawi-Sri Lanka, 2026

February 16-27

Sri Lanka-Djibouti (via Maldives)

March 2-31

This voyage crosses the heart of the Indian Ocean as the northeast trades ease through March but generally remain present. A stop at Uligan in the Maldives provides a welcome mid-ocean pause - clear water, quiet anchorages, and time to reset before the longer offshore legs. If conditions allow, a rare stop at Socotra offers the chance to see the island's legendary dragon blood trees before reaching Djibouti, a safe and stable landfall with secure ports and a major international airport - ideal for crew changes and onward travel after a major ocean crossing.

Djibouti-Rhodes (via Suakin & the Suez Canal)

April 5-27

This is a challenging passage, involving headwinds and stretches of motor sailing. The first leg to Suakin is often aided by southerly winds funneled up the strait, providing smoother, downwind sailing. Many cruisers stop at Suakin for its safe anchorage, historic Ottomam-era port, and quiet coastal scenery - a convenient and rewarding pause before heading north toward the Suez. Beyond Suakin, it's a matter of working upwind toward the Suez. According to Jimmy Cornell, author of the classic World Cruising Routes, April is the best month for this passage. The Suez Canal transit itself involves formalities with an agent and authorities, followed by a daylight convoy passage under pilot guidance, with an overnight stop near Ismailia before continuing northward. The final leg from Port Said to Rhodes typically takes three days.

Offshore & Coastal Sailing

Small group sailing trips designed to reconnect you with nature’s wild beauty.

Sailing Programs

1. Longer offshore passages

2. Coastal, island-hopping voyages.

All trips are participatory and involve shared responsibility onboard - but they differ significantly in duration, daily rhythm and proximity to land.

(scroll down for details)

Shorter Passages (2-10 days)

Coastal trips are well suited to those new to sailing, travelers looking for a balance between sailing and exploring - and anyone who wants a mix of hands-on sailing with time ashore.

For more details about offshore and coastal passages, go to the Frequently Asked Questions on our About page.

Open Ocean (Offshore) Passages

Open ocean sailing can be exhilarating, challenging and deeply rewarding, but it requires curiosity, resilience and a willingness to engage fully with the experience.

These passages are well-suited for aspiring sailors who want real offshore experience before embarking on their own voyages, as well as for couples, friends, families and solo travelers seeking meaningful adventure. No prior ocean-crossing experience is required, but participants should be prepared for physical effort, teamwork and extended time at sea.

Beyond seamanship, long passages provide an opportunity for something increasingly rare: time, space and reflection. Many guests come during periods of transition - career changes, life milestones or personal crossroads. The rhythm of passage-making offers a powerful setting for clarity and perspective, and the ocean in her many moods can be an amazing source of inspiration and guidance.

Wild Journeys

Aboard Blackfin, we sail not just across oceans, but forward in our own stories, guided by wind, weather - and the enduring wisdom of the sea. Read more about Blackfin and Captain Ben Reader here.

Sailing with Ben on the Blackfin was the adventure of a lifetime. Incredible food, wild moments on the water - and a deep sense of trust the whole way through. Ben is an extremely knowledgeable captain, but also one of the most patient, grounded people you'd want to be at sea with.

Evan Rilling, surfer and chef

★★★★★

★★★★★

Sailing with Ben on the Blackfin was a dream come true. And once was not enough. I sailed down the coast of New Zealand and came back to sail down the East coast of Australia toward Tasmania. Blackfin is a beautifully appointed boat and Ben's breadth of knowledge will impress expert sailors and novices alike.

Shelley Gill ~ author, adventurer & whale detective

Get in touch

Ready to set sail? Come sail your story forward aboard Blackfin!

WhatsApp:

+1 (316) 297-5770

Email:

sailblackfin@gmail.com