Words from John Masefield’s Sea Fever must be echoing in the ears of 428 people who braved the gale force, bitterly cold winds and rough seas to venture afloat on the Dutch brig Mercedes for a number of day sail trips.

Sara Pugh from the Falmouth Tall Ships Association, who organised the Mercedes trips around Falmouth’s harbour and bay, said: “Our association exists to encourage tall ships into Falmouth and facilitate the important links between the port and these magnificent vessels.

“Over the Bank Holiday weekend nearly 500 members of the public, and representatives of Cornwall’s business community, had the fantastic experience of sailing on Mercedes. Despite the cold weather we have really been lifted by the messages of support and positive feedback.”

Mercedes, a 50-metre long brig, pitched and cork-screwed her way across the bay during all of her day sails, giving passengers a brief taste of life at sea on a sailing ship – albeit not in Cape Horn conditions.

She offers a high degree of comfort with a spacious main deck and well-appointed deck saloon along with elegant restaurant and bar areas. She attends most large maritime festivals in Europe and works as a charter vessel in international and UK waters.