26 Jun 2020

World’s Largest Square-Rigged Sailing Ship

Tradewind Voyages News

World’s Largest Square-Rigged Sailing Ship Begins Inaugural Season From May 2021 With Voyages From The Uk 

The world’s largest square-rigged sailing ship, Golden Horizon, will start offering ex-UK voyages from May to August 2021. 

The luxurious ship will carry up to 272 passengers and operate, under charter, to the new brand Tradewind Voyages. Golden Horizon is a near replica of the 1913-built ocean vessel France II and will retain its historic charm. 

A highlight of the first season will be a British Maritime voyage, with the ship anchoring off Cowes for the traditional Regatta fireworks display. 

In total, nine voyages will be offered from the UK with seven departures from Harwich and two from Glasgow. Northern European itineraries will feature Denmark, Iceland, the Norwegian Fjords and the Baltics. 

In September 2021, Golden Horizon will sail to the other side of the world, taking guests on an adventure that will include some beautiful and rarely visited islands along with unique and iconic destinations. 

Initially, she will travel east through the Suez Canal and follow the historic Maritime Silk Route to Jakarta, and on to Bali. Itineraries in late 2021 and into 2022 will feature Australia, the Indian Ocean, Japan, Alaska, the Americas and the Pacific Islands. 

Golden Horizon will allow guests to explore the world and the oceans in a more sustainable way. Uniquely, all her voyages are planned on the basis of the prevailing winds and currents around the world, often following the traditional trading routes; a real maritime experience.

The ship will offer outstanding food and service and will appeal to active adults who want to travel the world in a new way. There will be a sophisticated enrichment and wellbeing programme and, for those who wish, the opportunity to take advantage of various complementary water sports available from its marina.

Tradewind Voyages’ programme will go on sale in September 2020 and is backed by a formidable team. 

Chief executive officer Stuart McQuaker had a successful career in the Royal Navy and the cruise industry. Sales and marketing director Jeremy McKenna, head of marketing and distribution Amanda Norey and product director Oliver Hammerer have all held numerous key positions in well-known and luxury cruise companies.

“The team is hugely excited by the opportunity to operate this fabulous ship,” said McQuaker. 

“We are looking forward to her introductory season in the UK and then taking her to some unique parts of the world, on itineraries that are planned to ensure we use the prevailing winds and currents to capitalise on her sailing credentials.” 

McKenna added “We are looking forward to working with our trade partners to give our mutual guests a true sailing experience on board this stunning ship as part of an unforgettable holiday.” 

Tradewind Voyages is planning to add further newly designed sailing ships to its fleet over the coming years, with the design process underway.

Golden Horizon: Vital Numbers 

  • Length overall: 162 metres
  • Width overall: 18.50 metres
  • Maximum draught: 6.40 metres
  • Displacement: 8440 tonnes
  • Sail area: 6300 square metres
  • Speed: 10 to 17 knots
  • Cabins: 140
  • Guests: 272
  • Crew: 159