Nothing frees the mind like the freedom of an open sea. Catch the early morning tide from Wells harbour for a day sailing along the stunning Norfolk Coast. Pass brightly coloured beach huts, cross Wells bar and head out into the North Sea, then it’s up to you whether to go east to Blakeney Point or west to Scolt Head. Perhaps the wintry cry of wild geese will call you further on, towards Brancaster or Thornham. Tuck into a sheltered island or stay at sea for the whole day, travelling with the weather. Chat with your skipper and make the day all yours!

Do as much or as little as you wish. Take the tiller, handle the sails or just lie back and watch clouds racing high in the Norfolk sky as light glitters on the waves. You’re part of something that began long ago, woven into centuries of seafaring stories from these salt washed islands. The Coastal Exploration Company’s heritage boats, are beautifully refurbished traditionally rigged fishing vessels taking 6 or 8 people. Just being aboard makes memories to treasure.

Jolly sailors are well fed, so you’ll be looked after with a hearty breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea, all delicious and locally sourced from Norfolk’s top artisan producers. You can be driven the last leg back to Wells or take it slow, surrendering to nature’s own sweet rhythms. The breeze gets up, soft rain’s coming in, the harbour lights are shining and you’re sailing home on a rising tide.