cruise ship golden horizon

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Golden Horizon

Former names: flying clipper, brodosplit 483.

Cruise line Tradewind Voyages UK (Star Clippers)

Golden Horizon current position

Golden Horizon current location is at Adriatic Sea (coordinates 43.52702 N / 16.44110 E) cruising en route to Split. The AIS position was reported 5 minutes ago.

Specifications of Golden Horizon

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Golden Horizon Review

Review of golden horizon.

The 2019-built Golden Horizon cruise ship (fka "Flying Clipper") was originally planned to be chartered to Star Clippers as the company's newest (fleet's 4th) sailing vessel. The megayacht (square-rigger / 5-Masted Schooner) is also the world's ever largest clipper (tall-sailing ship).

The vessel (IMO number 9793545) is currently Croatia- flagged (MMSI 238129940).

On June 5, 2020, the shipowner (DIV Group Ltd/Croatia) announced that the sailship will be chartered to Tradewind Voyages UK Ltd instead of Star Clippers Ltd. The boat charterer Tradewind Voyages manages the vessel and most onboard and ashore operations (hotel, wellness, shopping, entertainment, water sports, tours/shore excursions). For the ship's Deck-, Hotel- and Engine operations was contracted the DIV Group's subsidiary company BSM (Brodosplit Ship Management).

The vessel was renamed "Golden Horizon", rebranded and scheduled to start cruises for Tradewind in May 2021. Tradewind Voyages plans to charter more newbuilt sailships and expand operations over the coming years. The company's CEO is Alan McGrory.

DIV Group Ltd is a 1990-founded Croatian industrial group, also Brodosplit Shipyard's owner. The corporation DIV Group operates in 30 countries, fully owns 55 subsidiary companies and specializes in shipbuilding, steel structure manufacturing, marine engine manufacturing, railway infrastructure, among others.

Flying Clipper was intended as Star Clippers' biggest ship, and also the company's first newbuild (since the 2000-built Royal Clipper ). The shipbuilder is Brodosplit Shipyard ( Split Croatia ). The vessel was launched on June 10, 2017, and scheduled for delivery in 2017-Q4 but was rescheduled for 2018-Q1 and finally for 2019-H2.

The ship was designed by Zygmunt Choren (Polish naval architect) and modelled on France II - the 1912-built sailing vessel which was the world's biggest at its time. Previously, Star Clippers modelled Royal Clipper (capacity 227 passengers) on Preussen (German, steel-hulled 5-masted ship, 1902-built). Flying Clipper's rig is the same as that of the cargo ship France II, which sank in 1922.

Currently ranked the world's largest tall sailing ship, Golden Horizon has max passenger capacity 330 (plus 140 crew-staff), volume 8770 GT-tons, and is wind-powered (by 68320 ft2 / 6347 m2 of sails) - a total of 42 sails (all square-rigged). Alternative power is provided by new-design, fuel-efficient diesel engines.

If you're interested in maritime technologies and the vessel details, see the ship's Wiki section .

Decks and Cabins

Flying Clipper/Golden Horizon staterooms are 140, in 3 types (Suite, Balcony, Porthole) and 14 categories. All cabins on Deck 3 (Main Deck) have a step-out balcony. The four Owner Suites are all located forward on Deck 4 (Upper Deck/Pool Deck).

All cabins are outside, with smart HDTVs (satellite reception), en-suite bathrooms (WC-toilet, shower, washbasin), plenty of luggage storage space. Complimentary bottled water (replenished daily) and twice-daily housekeeping service are also provided. Balcony cabins have a shower over the bathtub. Suites are with separate shower-bathtub. Cabin decors reflect clipper ships' Golden Age - marked by polished wood furniture and prints on the walls of the world's most famous sailships.

The boat has 4 decks , all of which have cabins.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

The ship has one restaurant (main dining room) spanning 2 decks and with an open-seating arrangement, large windows, wood paneling. The Restaurant's entrance is from the Lobby level of the 3-deck high Atrium. Meals include buffet-style breakfast and lunch. Dinner is waiter-served, with a choice of gourmet dishes and vegan-vegetarian options.

BBQ parties are held in Horizon Bar (on sun deck) and also ashore.

Tea, coffee and fresh fruits are complimentary and always available.

Ship's focal point is the alfresco Horizon Bar (fka Tropical Bar / Star Clippers' hallmark) hosting port talks, live musical entertainment, shows, exercise classes, outdoor dining (BBQ, light lunch food, afternoon snacks). Inside, there is an elegant Piano Bar for those who prefer casual buffet lunch, calm music and air-conditioning. The ship also offers a Dive Bar by the swimming pool on the aft deck.

The company provides complimentary 24-hour room service.

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

The sailing cruise ship Golden Horizon has two plunge pools. One of the swimming pools is glass-bottomed, funneling sunlight through into the Atrium below. A third pool (scuba diving pool) is located aft (close to the stern), descending 18 ft (5,5 m) through 2 decks. This pool is glass-walled, allowing guests to watch the divers. Diving classes are offered onboard as the ship carries its own professionally-trained Dive Master.

The aft-located water sports platform (marina at the ship's stern) is lowered when Flying Clipper is at anchor. Complimentary water sport activities include snorkeling, dinghy sailing, waterskiing, sea kayaking. When the ship is at open sea, a signature onboard fun activity is supervised mast-climbing. Passengers are also allowed to lounge in the 2 nets strung on either side of the bowsprit.

This sail cruise ship also has a small SPA (Sauna Room, Snow Room, Jacuzzi, Treatment Room for Thai massages), Beauty Salon (facials, manicure/pedicure, hairstyling, blow-dries), Library, Function Room (meeting room for guest lectures and private events). Tradewind Voyages has no kids' programming. Babysitting and childcare are also not available onboard. However, kid-friendly activities are occasionally organized on select itineraries during the summer holidays.

The company provides complimentary live entertainment - a resident pianist (at Piano Bar) and local performers (boarding the ship in call ports). Debeljak's Bar Lounge is the venue for after-dinner cocktails and premium brand gin and whisky offerings.

Passengers are encouraged by the crew to participate in the ship's navigation and even setting the sails. Other popular onboard activities include wine tastings, cooking demos, and sundeck-hosted games. From the aft Marina are launched complimentary water sports. Also complimentary are the Fitness classes held on Sun Deck.

Tradewind Voyages 2021-2022 (inaugural cruise itinerary program)

For summer 2020, Star Clippers planned for Flying Clipper cruises in Europe (Mediterranean). Following a Transatlantic repositioning crossing, during winter 2020-2021, the sailship was planned to operate cruises in the Caribbean.

Golden Horizon ship's Inaugural Cruise in 2021 was initially scheduled for May 1st, but later rescheduled for July 1st (both leaving from Harwich ). Tradewind Voyages' Northern Europe 2021 itinerary program includes ports and destinations in the UK, Iceland, Norway ( Svalbard Islands , Norwegian Fjords), Baltic ports (also St Petersburg Russia ).

The Baltic itineraries have durations 7-14-21-days and are all roundtrips from the UK. Select voyages are 10- and 11-days in length. The ex-UK program (May through September 2021) has a total of 9 itineraries, including 7 from Harwich (England) and 2 from Greenock-Glasgow (Scotland) .

Other destinations to be served by Tradewind Voyages with SV Golden Horizon (SV=sailing vessel) include Asia, South Pacific, Australia-New Zealand, Arctic.

In 2022, due to the Russia-Ukraine war (which started on Feb 20th) and the following EU sanctions against Russian entities (particularly, VTB Bank Germany - Tradewind's Russia-based creditor), Tradewind Voyages canceled all Golden Horizon sailings (24x total) between May 1st and October 26th (2022).

Next table shows Golden Horizon's schedule for 2021-2022, which was eventually canceled.

Bookings were opened in September 2020. However, in early-March 2021, Tradewind Voyages announced (in a press release) that the brand's inauguration (and Golden Horizon's Inaugural Cruise) is rescheduled for July 1st ("Eastern Coastal Contrasts" itinerary roundtrip from Harwich). The next itineraries were "Scotland East to West" (July 6, from Leith-Edinburgh), "West Coast Gems of Scotland" (Jul 15, from Greenock-Glasgow), "Maritime Cities of the Northwest" (July 21, from Greenock-Glasgow) and "Rounding the South West" (July 25, from Liverpool). Tradewind's cruise program from August 4 onwards remained unchanged.

The "Maritime Silk Route" itineraries were replaced by "All Inclusive Dubai" (Arabian Gulf) and "Indonesian Islands Collection" series (including "A passage to Singapore" /14-day repositioning cruise from Dubai to Singapore). All affected bookings received 100% cash refund or 110% refund in FCC (future cruise credit).

( deployment/itinerary changes ) In August 2021, Tradewind announced Golden Horizon's Caribbean 2021-2022 winter season, replacing the previously planned Australian deployment. The changes were due to Australia's ongoing COVID-related international travel uncertainties. The Australian season was replaced with homeporting in Bridgetown Barbados (November 11, 2021, through March 31, 2022) and visiting the islands St Barts, St Vincent, Mayreau/Grenadines, Grenada, Tobago, Guadeloupe, Dominica, Martinique, Jamaica, St Lucia, St Kitts. The Caribbean season had to end with a 15-day Transatlantic repositioning crossing from Barbados to Lisbon. However, in October 2021, this program was also canceled.

For more information see the ship's Wiki page .

Tradewind Voyages 2022-2023 itineraries

Tradewind Voyages 2022-2023 itinerary program (announced in June 2021) was divided into 4 collections that included a total of 23 different itineraries. Prices per person (per itinerary group) started at:

• GBP 1100 ("Antipodean Summer - Crossing the Tasman Sea"), GBP 1800 ("South Pacific Collection - Pearls of French Polynesia", GBP 2100 ("West Coast Americas - Colours of the Mexican Coast") and GBP 3200 ("North Pacific - Contrasts of Japan".
• The program's signature destinations included Southeast Asia, Japan (May-June 2022), Alaska (and the Aleutian Islands), Arctic Russia, Canada USA, Central and South America (August-October 2022/El Salvador, Nicaragua, Panama, Ecuador, Peru, Chile), Pacific Ocean Islands (Easter Island, Pitcairn Islands, French Polynesia, Tonga, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji, Solomon Islands, Cook Islands), Australia New Zealand (2023).

Golden Horizon's Maiden Voyage was eventually rescheduled for May 1, 2022, leaving out of Palma de Mallorca (Balearic Spain) . The inaugural season (in the Mediterranean) included a total of 23x itineraries (see the above table of canceled cruises) visiting ports in the Western Med (Spain, France, Italy), Adriatic Sea (Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, Slovenia) and the Eastern Med/Aegean Sea (Greece, Turkey). The canceled Meditteranean 2021-2022 programs included homeporting in Palma, Civitavecchia-Rome, Split Croatia, Piraeus-Athens. The season had to end with the 14-night Transatlantic crossing (themed "Canaries to the Caribbean Voyage") followed by the Caribbean season (winter 2022-2023) with homeporting in Barbados (Bridgetown).

Golden Horizon - user reviews and comments

Photos of golden horizon.

Golden Horizon ship related cruise news

Tradewind Voyages UK cancels all Golden Horizon cruises in the Mediterranean (May-October 2022...

Tradewind Voyages, the UK-based operator of the tall-sail ship Golden Horizon, canceled all sailings through October 2022 as it pursues a...

Tradewind Voyages pauses Golden Horizon ship due to EU's sanctions against Russia

The UK-based operator of the tall ship Golden Horizon, Tradewind Voyages, has decided to suspend sales as sanctions against Russian entities had...

Tradewind Voyages UK cancels Golden Horizon's 2021-2022 Caribbean season

The UK-based new cruise brand Tradewind Voyages that operates the tall sailship Golden Horizon, announced that the planned season of Caribbean...

Tradewind Voyages’ ship Golden Horizon finally leaves Dover UK after arrest

Tradewind Voyages’ sail ship Golden Horizon finally left Dover (England UK) on her inaugural voyage ~24 hours after her scheduled departure...

Tradewind Voyages launches 2022-2023 program for its Golden Horizon ship

Ahead of the inaugural ex-Harwich England sailing of Golden Horizon on July 1, 2021, the new cruise brand Tradewind Voyages UK launched its 2022-2023...

Port Poole England announces 2021 cruise schedule

Port Poole (England UK) announced that 4 cruise companies will visit the Dorset destination 7 times this year. All ships will make maiden port calls...

Tradewind Voyages UK's cruise ship Golden Horizon 2021 itinerary changes

Tradewind Voyages UK made a number of itinerary changes to the 2021 schedule of its Golden Horizon ship in order to comply with the travel...

Brodosplit Ship Management to deliver services for Golden Horizon

DIV Group announced they had selected its subsidiary company BSM (Brodosplit Ship Management) to deliver Deck, Engine and Hotel Management services...

World’s largest square-rigged sailship chartered to Tradewind Voyages UK

The owner of Brodosplit Shipyard - the Croatian corporation DIV Group - announced that the largest square-rigged sailship in the world (hull...

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The small-ship cruise line Star Clippers announced the launch of line's new Sailing Collection brochure which details itineraries around the world...

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Golden Horizon Wiki

The cruise ship Golden Horizon (fka Flying Clipper) is a close replica of "France II" - French sailing ship built in 1913 by Chantiers et Ateliers de la Gironde shipyard ( Bordeaux ). The sailing cargo ship was ordered in 1911 by the company Societe Anonyme des Navires Mixtes and served the shipping route connecting Rouen France with Australia, New Caledonia ( Noumea, Grande Terre island ) and the USA.

The ship ran aground in July 1922 (on Teremba Reef / Urai Bay, approx 110 km northwest of Noumea) while en-route to Europe and loaded with chrome ore. As the shipowner refused to pay for towage, the wreckage remained at Ouano Reef until 1944, when was destroyed by US aircraft bombing it for target practice.

The original France II ship had a total of 38 sails (including 20 square, 12 staysails, 4 fore, 2 spankers), total sail area 68350 ft2 (6350 m2), 4 lifeboats, cargo capacity 7420 tons, crew capacity 50, max speed 20 mph (32 kph).

Flying Clipper (Golden Horizon) is larger than France II, but its sails and rigging are exact copies. The cruise ship has a steel hull (with teak decking) and is ice-strengthened. This 5-masted square-rigger has 36 sails (total sail area 68320 ft2 / 6347 m2) and its largest mast has height 63 m (207 ft) and weight 24 tons. Hull's ice-class allows the vessel to navigate in all oceans, including Arctic and Antarctica. Its max speed is 23 mph (37 kph) under sails or 18 mph (30 kph) under diesel engine power (two engines, diesel-electric propulsion, fuel tanks capacity 800 tons, fuel consumption 2 tons MDO-diesel per hour), total energy consumption 4200 kWh. Under sail power (with both engines off), the ship can navigate for ~400 hours (16,5 days) or ~11100 km (6900 mi). The propulsion is based on 2x independent electric motors - larger (2500 kWh) and smaller (1700 kWh).

The ship's cargo capacity is 2000 tons. The powerplant-generated electricity allows ~400 hours of cruising without refueling. There are 6x lifeboats (doubling as tender boats for landings), 8x liferafts, 4x speed boats, 2x small boats.

In June 2015, KfW IPEX Bank GmbH (the largest subsidiary of KfW / German government-owned bank) provided a syndicated loan to finance the ship's construction. In June was also signed the corresponding agreement with the shipowner DIV Group Ltd (1990-founded). The bank provided a tranche (a portion of the money) covered by export credit guarantee from the Croatian export credit agency HBOR.

In late-January 2017, Mikael Krafft (Star Clippers' CEO) officially confirmed that due to delay in construction (caused by the shipyard's financial problems), the boat's initially planned inauguration (August 2017) was pushed back to 2018, and subsequently to 2019 and 2021 (May).

On June 10, 2017, was the vessel's launch at Brodosplit Shipyard ( Split Croatia ). It was registered / hull designation as "Brodosplit 483".

Flying Clipper/Golden Horizon is the world's first sail ship built to comply with IMO's SRtP (Safe Return to Port) requirement introduced by SOLAS in 2009. The SRtP was prompted by the ever-increasing size/capacity of passenger ships as the bigger the vessel is the longer evacuation lasts. The SRtP defines how long the ship should remain safe for evacuation or to be able to safely return to port without evacuating its passengers.

In early-December 2020, the shipowner (DIV Group Ltd) announced that its subsidiary BSM (Brodosplit Ship Management) will provide the vessel's Deck-, Engine- and Hotel management services. As of 2021, BSM also manages the DIV Group-owned cruise ships Klara (IMO 9781827, 2019-built), Katina (IMO 9712838, 2015-built) and Monet (IMO 7045803, 1970-built). DIV Group's President is Tomislav Debeljak.

When the ship was arrested in Dover UK (July 15, 2021/ accident report ) was announced that the vessel is registered to the offshore company XB Ahts Hero Shipping (Marshall Islands), with director Vedrana Debeljak (Tomislav Debeljak's sister).

Tradewind Voyages Caribbean 2021-2022 itineraries (canceled)

Next tables show the two itineraries planned (later canceled) for Golden Horizon's 2021-2022 Caribbean program. The season (Nov 11, 2021, thru April 7, 2022, based on homeporting in Bridgetown Barbados ) was announced in August and canceled in October 2021.

(MAIDEN VOYAGE) 7-day "Undiscovered Caribbean" itinerary

7-day "Caribbean's Hidden Gems" itinerary

7-day "Icons of the Caribbean" itinerary

(eastbound Transatlantic crossing Caribbean-Europe) 15-day from Barbados to Lisbon (US$2000)

Prices started from USD 1800 (GBP 1300 / EUR 1550) per person with double occupancy.

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Home Tradewind Voyages Golden Horizon

Golden Horizon

The world’s largest square-rigged sailing ship, Golden Horizon, is a new vessel in service for cruise operator, Tradewind Voyages . The 5-masted Golden Horizon offers cruises to the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.

A near-replica of the 1913-built France II, Golden Horizon offers capacity for no more than 272 guests. It combines the onboard luxuries of a small cruise ship with the charm, romance, and adventure of the historic 19th and 20th-century clippers.

To receive a quote for a Golden Horizon cruise, please call our Voyage Consultants on 0800 008 6677 or make an online enquiry for one of the sailings featured on our website.

Golden Horizon Accommodation

Cabin accommodation on Golden Horizon.

The accommodation aboard Golden Horizon combines Tradewind Voyages’ traditional maritime leanings with the highest standards of contemporary luxury. The dark wood furnishings contrast nicely with the white bed linen, while the spacious bathrooms benefit from large mirrors and gold fixings.

There are three categories of accommodation available on Golden Horizon, all of which have an ocean view via a balcony or window:

• Double or twin beds (on request)
• Two porthole windows
• Bathroom with a shower and toiletries
• Complimentary bottled water
• Twice-daily housekeeping service

Deluxe Balcony Cabin:

• Private balcony
• Sofa bed for the third guest (if required)
• Bathroom with shower over bath
• 24-hour room service and twice-daily housekeeping service
• Complimentary mini-bar

Owner’s Suite:

• Separate bedroom and living/dinner area
• Bathroom (with shower and bathtub) + guest bathroom
• Walk-in wardrobe
• Complimentary mini-bar and daily canapes
• Complimentary laundry and pressing

Golden Horizon also offers accommodation with a wide single bed for solo travellers .

Golden Horizon Dining

The Main Dining Room on Golden Horizon.

There are two dining venues on Golden Horizon; the spectacular main dining room and the more informal Horizon Bar. The main dining room offers outstanding cuisine in a grand setting, complete with maritime art, wrought-iron balconies and an eye-catching ceiling skylight. Here, you can enjoy breakfast, lunch (both buffet-style) and a full-service dinner served with complimentary beers and wines.

The Horizon Bar is open during lunch for light-bites and again in the afternoon for a ‘Deck Delights’ trolley service. 24-hour room service is also available in selected cabin categories for those who wish to dine in private.

Activities, Entertainment & Facilities

The library on Golden Horizon.

During the day, you are free to join Golden Horizon’s other guests on a packed activity program that includes wine-tasting, cooking, games, and quizzes. You can also enjoy talks from the ship’s resident guest speaker or head to the water-sports marina to use the ship’s kayaks, dinghies, water skis and waterboards.

The evening entertainment onboard Golden Horizon is relatively low key, with performances from local artists and the ship’s musical duo designed to complement the onboard ambience. There are two outside bars available should you wish to enjoy a drink on the deck, while Debeljak’s is a premium beverage bar serving the finest whiskey and gins.

Other facilities on Golden Horizon include:

• Two swimming pools and one ‘deep dive’ pool
• Spa with a sauna, snow room and jacuzzi
• Beauty salon offering manicures, blow-dries and other treatments
• Fitness classes on the Sun Deck

For more information, please call our Voyage Consultants on 0800 008 6677 .

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Golden Horizon

• Shipyard Brodosplit
• Length 162.00 m
• Beam 18.50 m
• Passengers 272
• Crew/Pax ratio 1 : 1.71
• Language English
• Flag Croatia

Golden Horizon is the largest sailing ship in the world with 36 square sails rigged on 5 masts. Measuring 162 feet long and 18.5 feet wide, she can accommodate 272 passengers in her 140 luxurious cabins. Tradewinds Voyages' ship is almost a replica of the ocean liner built in 1913, France II, it retains the charm, adventure and romance of a historic ship. The atmosphere on board is relaxed, casual, elegant and without unnecessary formality. All 140 cabins face outward, so guests can enjoy breathtaking views. The cabins evoke the luxury and facilities expected of a boutique cruise ship, while retaining the charm, adventure and romance of a truly historic sailing vessel. Golden Horizon's amenities include three swimming pools, a large restaurant, four bars, large lounges, one of which is spread over three decks, a library, wellness center and fitness area. At the stern there is an opening platform that allows guests direct access to the sea equipped with a fleet of kayaks, windsurfs and rubber dinghies. When night falls, you can choose to spend the evening meeting new friends in the bar with great premium drinks or attend a performance by talented local artists. On board, you enjoy the sense of freedom as the sails swell pushing the ship and in that pleasant feeling of solitude you get on the high seas. Giorgia Lombardo

• Western Mediterranean

Beautiful sailor

First sailing experience aboard this new ship from Tradewinds Voyages. We have to say that the experience was positive, both on board and with the beautiful summer itinerary. The spaces inside the ship are very beautiful and comfortable, with good service and excellent entertainment. The navigation is truly beautiful, perfectly enjoyable from the external decks. Recommended experience!

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Inside Golden Horizon, the sustainable cruise ship that runs 70% on nature

A game changer for eco-friendly holidays in 2021

While we love the sense of adventure that comes with experiencing the culture, customs and landscapes in faraway places – or even remote parts of our own country – for environmentally-conscious travellers, traditional flying and sailing long distances simply hasn't been an option.

Enter new cruise line Tradewind Voyages, which is here to bring you unique travel experiences with sustainability at its core.

A cruise ship powered by nature

Using the currents and prevailing winds, Golden Horizon takes 70% of its power from natural sources. Its sailings from British and Australian ports mean that passengers living there can avoid flying altogether.

As the world's biggest square-rigged ship, the facilities on-board are still extensive and you don't have to compromise on luxury. It offers three swimming pools, a beauty salon, gym, spa with sauna, hammam, snow room and Jacuzzi, as well as five bars (two outdoor and one piano bar).

The special two-floor dining room serves up delicious food using local, sustainably sourced produce wherever possible. You’ll find no plastic straws or water bottles being used anywhere on the ship, either.

Because there's still so much we can learn about living sustainably and caring for our beautiful planet, those lucky enough to experience the ship can attend educational talks, too.

Eco-conscious experiences on and off the ship

Along with the programme of talks about the natural world, there are stop-offs that focus on the local flora and fauna in the places you visit. You can also expect excursions with the environment in mind: think trips to organic farms and vineyards.

What’s more, while there’s been no compromise on fantastic facilities, the removal of all inside cabins not only means you’re guaranteed spectacular views, but carrying fewer passengers than ships of a similar size reduces the overall carbon footprint even further.

Small-ship cruising also means travellers sail into smaller ports and spend less time moored at sea with unnecessary engine use and pollution.

Learn from wildlife experts

To emphasise its eco-ethos, Country Living has partnered with Tradewind Voyages to create two exclusive holidays with celebrity experts.

The first sets off from Scotland in May 2021, travelling to Iceland where you can learn about volcanoes with wildlife presenter Kate Humble, who fronted the BBC’s brilliant Volcano Live from Katla.

While there, you’ll see the Eyjafjallajökull, Katla and Hekla volcanoes, and get the chance to step inside a real lava tunnel. As well as awe-inspiring sights, you’ll return to Scotland feeling relaxed and restored, with excursions including bathing in restorative geothermal pools, riding Icelandic horses and enjoying the ship’s library and pools while sailing through beautiful fjords.

The second is closer to home and allows you to learn about some of Britain’s most beautiful landscapes on a June 2021 sailing around the British Isles. You'll head for Belfast, the Giant's Causeway and dramatic Antrim Coast, as well as the Isle of Man, where you can board a vintage train to the top of Snaefell mountain.

This special cruise also takes you to Dublin to see Malahide Castle and Dublin Bay, along with the wonderful Isles of Scilly.

Once there, broadcaster and environmentalist Liz Bonnin will give a talk entitled 'The Problem with Plastics' and take part in an exclusive Q&A on board. Liz will also join you on a visit to Tresco Abbey Gardens to see the colourful plantlife of the unspoilt Isles of Scilly, and on a magical boat trip around the eastern islands to spot wildlife.

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Experience Golden Horizon from £829

If you’d like to enjoy mesmerising views and the indulgent facilities of Golden Horizon on a shorter itinerary, you can join a six-night sailing from Portugal to Portsmouth in April 2021.

At £829 per person, or £699 with no flight out to Portugal, this full-board cruise offers a taste of the luxurious ship on its delivery voyage. You'll head off for an amazing sailing adventure and have the chance to assist the crew in fine-tuning the experience.

As the dress rehearsal for Golden Horizon 's inaugural season, it will give you a preview of one of the most exciting ships to launch in the UK, as well as take in some fantastic destinations during springtime: Lisbon, Leixões, Vigo, La Coruna and Portsmouth.

Modelled on a traditional sailing ship, with elegant features across its small collection of 140 cabins and gorgeous bars, restaurant, library and spa, Golden Horizon is utterly modern in its sustainable design and mission.

If you're looking for a 2021 holiday like no other, this new sustainable cruise ship is worth considering.

Country Living readers can experience Golden Horizon for seven days from Portugal in April , 15 days with Kate Humble in May and 15 days with Liz Bonnin in May .

We want to help you stay inspired. Sign up for the latest travel tales and to hear about our favourite financially protected escapes and bucket list adventures.

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Home ● World’s Largest Square-Rigged Sailing Ship

World’s Largest Square-Rigged Sailing Ship

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 

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Presenting the world's largest full-rigged sailing ship.

Available for charter now.

Specifications

The Golden Horizon is the five mast barque, capable of trans-ocean voyages with sails and/or diesel electric propulsion.

• 2021 built year
• 162,2m/532.15ft length over all

Guests are accommodated on four decks in a total of 140 Suites & Staterooms, including 38 balcony staterooms and 4 Deluxe Suites.

• 158 crew members
• 140 suites & staterooms

Sustainability

Our aim is to be powered by nature and sail whenever possible, without propulsion engines, for around 70% of each voyage.

• 17 knots max. speed with engines
• 20+ knots speed under sails

Sail into our photo and video gallery and explore the Golden Horizon.

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Golden-Horizon

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Launched: 2021

Passengers: 272

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The world’s largest square-rigged sailing ship, Golden Horizon, offered her first voyages in May 2021. The luxurious ship will carry up to 272 passengers. Golden Horizon is a near replica of the 1913-built ocean vessel France II and will retain its historic charm.  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. Golden Horizon will go on sale in September 2020.

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.

Please email us at  [email protected] to be informed of when Golden Horizon's full itinerarires are pubished. 

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A brand-new classic: the Golden Horizon sets sail

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Horatio Clare

Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.

At least no one says, “Don’t look down.” The rigging of this modern sailing ship is taut steel and new rope, so the first 20 metres of my ascent are not bad. “Not like that,” says third mate Stefan Wronski, his hands posed as if gripping handlebars. He turns them vertical. “Climb like this.”

Stefan is Hollywood’s idea of a sailor: tall, handsome, iron handshake. He was a journalist until a dull assignment to write about kitchens inspired a dramatic career change and he became a rigger — when not crewing these ships, he builds them. This airy maze of cables and lurching drops is a home to him.

The five-masted Golden Horizon is the world’s largest square-rigger, brand-new but a near-replica of the 1913 barque France II. She is 162 metres long and can unfurl more than 6,300 sq metres of sails — double that of the celebrated clipper Cutty Sark. Her maiden passenger voyage offers dozens of activities and entertainments, from lectures to scuba diving. Climbing the rigging is also an option.

The shrouds are cables anchored to the hull, holding the mast in place. They pass two platforms on the way to the sky. The first easily has room for four. You reach it by following Stefan’s instructions: “Don’t fall off. Go slow. If you get scared, stop. Keep three points of contact with the ship.” Transferring from rigging to platform, you grip with terrified strength.

“OK?” asks captain Mariusz Szalek. He is not wearing a safety harness and it was he who announced that to understand sailing ships, you must climb the mast. Captain Mariusz is especially jolly up here. Anchored in the Solent, just east of Cowes, we have views of the sea, the Isle of Wight and the south coast of England, framed in rigging, views that few have seen in a century.

“Wonderful!” I squawk.

Stefan eases out along the yard — a horizontal bar attached to the mast from which the sails hang. Standing on a black piece of rope, bowed over the yard like an extra in Mutiny on the Bounty , Stefan crabs sideways. Please don’t invite us to join you , I pray.

“We go on?” The captain gestures upwards. Way up above is a tiny platform below the last section of the mast. The rigging there narrows to a thin vertical ladder leading to an obvious overhang below the crow’s nest. I open my mouth.

“Yes! Definitely!” says a voice. I turn to my friend, who is taking photographs, with a sickly grin. She is crazy.

“Sure!” I squeak.

Stefan reappears beside us. “Go as far as your feet can find rungs, then hold on and you are hanging outwards. Then pull yourself up and over.”

The captain and my friend have already gone. “Great!” I croak, thinking, Don’t look down . 

At Harwich, the first morning, her masts lancing the blue 60 metres above her deck, the Golden Horizon is beautiful, her bridge sleek as a superyacht’s and her bow raked and pointed like a speedboat. In the minibus from the mandatory Covid test are Elena, a historian of Russia, and her husband Lars, a hydro-engineer. We exchange excited rumours. “She was arrested in Dover over a bill!” Elena claims. A group from Tradewind Voyages, the operating company, are disembarking.

“Is it true?” I ask them.

“Yes,” one says, “But it’s all sorted now.”

The ship is brand new but, like all great vessels, already comes with her own back-story. She was commissioned by cruise line Star Clippers and built by the Brodosplit yard in Croatia; work began back in 2015 and the ship was originally due to enter service in late 2017. But after delays and a financial dispute, the yard ended up keeping the vessel, instead offering it for charter to the new British company Tradewind Voyages. 

On July 15, after a “dress rehearsal” sailing along the south coast of England, the ship arrived in Dover, only to be detained at the request of Star Clippers, who claim the yard owe an outstanding debt. According to Star Clippers, a payment was received the next day, and the ship was released and allowed to continue on her way.

Like many sailors, I am superstitious about ships — you know if they are good or bad the moment you step on deck. Happily, I have never set foot on a more gleeful vessel. She has a piratical spirit. Cathedral-high and yacht-swishy, she glints with benign mischief. The same spark is plain in Captain Mariusz’s eyes as he welcomes us aboard.

“Do you like her, captain?”

“Like her? I love her! She’s my second wife.”

“How does she handle?”

“We will see! Ha!”

He reveals that for optimum speed she needs 40 knots of wind, and that he brought her across the Bay of Biscay in a force-eight gale. To be on her bridge when she is canted with the wind and flying like that is now one of my life’s ambitions. With the ship heeling and pitching, slashing spray and the swimming pools’ water sloshing across the decks, an intense experience would be guaranteed.

A delightful cabin steward confides: “She’s like a small village. On a big cruise ship, you can get up to all kinds of things!” A big cruise ship is more like a sizeable town, she says, with greater opportunities for friendships and more among the crew. “Here everyone knows everything!” she laughs. Despite this, like all the crew I meet, she is happy and excited to be here: there is a feeling that we are all in the same boat.

I have a fabulous massage in the spa from expert masseuse Ana Franic. I use the excellent gym. I eat extremely well in a dining room that is like an elegant and compact theatre, balconies and stairs descending through an operatic scoop of space, with one of the three swimming pools suspended above. I take notes through an engrossing lecture on ships, winds and tides, delivered with great charm and expertise by crewman Ash Doogan.

But most of the voyage I spend on the bridge, watching and listening, entranced. When they are not manoeuvring in port or taking on pilots, passengers are welcome to watch the navigation officers work.

“Let go the spring line aft!” orders the captain, and the last rope is loosed. With stay sails set — scalene triangles between the masts — and the diesel electric engine running silently (as far as the passengers are concerned, there is no noise or vibration in the decks) Golden Horizon, all coiled power and elegance, puts to sea.

“Midships!” calls the pilot.

“Midships sir!” responds the helmsman instantly, though our pilot out of Harwich is Joanna Stueven, originally from Hamburg. She calls the course changes, with the captain looking on. Despite a professional reserve, she is clearly impressed by the way Golden Horizon handles, answering her helm and changing pace and course like a dancer.

I have travelled seaward along this channel before, between the marker buoys, which the chart shows by name. They sound like the overture of a maritime symphony, scored in sandbanks and seamarks around the globe — South West Tail of Rough, Cork Sand, Bawdsey. Back then, I was on a giant Maersk container ship bound for California via Suez. Though our cruise goes only along England’s south coast, it feels even more exciting.   

“When you see her sailing,” says the captain, “you will see a poem.”

The sea reclines in a reverie of summer blue. We glide into one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes tracked by Dover Coastguard, which asks each vessel where she last called, how many passengers and crew she is carrying and whether she has any defects or damage.

With 304 people on board, we are not quite at capacity: when full, Golden Horizon can carry 272 guests and 159 crew. I meet a hip specialist, a retired pilot of Canberra bombers, a retired naval officer, a former mechanic who was in charge of the Sea Harrier planes during the 1982 Falklands war, a lady who sold advertising space for radio stations, and many leisure sailors and experienced cruisers. All agree that the ship is gorgeous, though some become frustrated, later, when storms prevent the tenders launching for promised trips ashore in Dartmouth and Torquay.

From our port side Alf Pollak, a roll-on, roll-off cargo carrier looking like a fat white baton on passage to Rotterdam from Purfleet hails us on the radio.

“Golden Horizon, what is your intention?”

“We are under sail,” Stefan returns. A ship under sail has precedence (the plan is that Golden Horizon will be powered by the wind about 70 per cent of the time).

“I will alter course,” Alf Pollak says, resigned. They wish each other “good watch.” We carry on serenely, our masts and yards lit as though for Christmas with festive white lightbulbs. Darkness falls. Jupiter shines bright. Through binoculars, its moons are white sparks. A cargo plane that I track via a smartphone app passes high above us, from Frankfurt bound for Chicago. I marvel at the doings of the sea and sky at night.

Calais and Ramsgate fall away behind. A vessel guarding a wind farm tells a yacht to turn to northwesterly: “You are entering a restricted area.”

“Which way? I have no engine,” the yacht returns, fraught and exhausted.

I turn in. When I come up again to greet the second day, the sun is a golden flare, our sails are set and the sea south of Hastings throngs with crab potters and cruise ships. Tankers and cargo carriers are bound for Brazil, Cork and Gdansk. We surge through the sea’s anthologies of work, trade and travel. Captain Mariusz was right: with our canvas out and filled we are indeed a poem.

I listen to them setting the highest sails.

“Ready for Royals, captain?”

“Set Royals!”

The order is repeated along the deck. After the clanking of the winches, there is the whizz and snap of tight rope and the flapping thud of canvas catching and bracing to the wind. You realise, thrilled, that these sounds descend, unchanged, through millennia. This is how the world was travelled, found and charted.

South of Saint Catherine’s point, we find eerie mist and warm rain. We are not due into the Solent until tomorrow, so we sail loops through the night, eat, do quizzes, drink and talk. Lars and Elena dance. Later, all but the night watches sleep.

At 8am the following morning the pilot cutter appears, the pilot boards and guides us in between the Isle of Wight and the mainland. We anchor near Cowes. The cutter returns bearing a friend, the actress Hayley Atwell. She is researching an autobiographical novel, Woman Walks into the Sea , which uses winds, tides and storm scales as its structure, while on a break from starring in Mission Impossible 7 . She falls for the ship instantly, and zips up 40 terrifying metres of rigging like a stuntwoman. I talk myself up slowly, trembling.

The crow’s nest, once you are safely clipped to it, is a wildly exhilarating place. You feel like an eagle. The thrill of this ship is not just the time-travel she offers. If we are really to save our Earth, seafaring will have to change. If you pictured it as a nation, the world’s trading fleet would be its seventh-most polluting country, in terms of carbon dioxide. To arrest global warming, we will need to switch to less polluting fuel or perhaps combine the engines with sails: Golden Horizon could also be a glimpse of the future. But our horizon darkens, suddenly, with squalls.

“Rain coming! Time to go!” cries the captain.

“Right,” Stefan says. “Now. Don’t look down.”                                   

Horatio Clare’s books include ‘Down to the Sea in Ships’ (Vintage, 2015) and ‘Icebreaker: a Voyage Far North’ (Chatto & Windus, 2017)

Horatio Clare was a guest of Tradewind Voyages ( tradewindvoyages.com ). The Golden Horizon was due to be currently en route for Australia, but ongoing pandemic travel restrictions have led to schedules being revised and it will now spend the coming winter touring the Caribbean, with sailings starting on November 11. An eight-day voyage, starting and ending in Barbados and calling at Tobago, Grenada, the Grenadines, St Vincent and St Lucia, costs from £1,799 or from £3,399 in a deluxe cabin with a balcony

Correction: this piece has was amended on September 6. The original version wrongly stated that sailing ships always have navigational priority over motorised vessels, even when the sailing ship is using both sail and engines. In fact, they only have precedence if purely under sail power.

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Cruise Ship Vacations: Expectation vs. Reality

M any crave a taste of luxury and turn to cruise ships to fulfill that desire. However, the reality often differs from the dream depicted in advertisements. We’ll share some examples that might sway your decision about that long-awaited cruise ship vacation. The choice is yours; read on.

Boarding Expectations on a Cruise Ship Vacation

Imagine finally stepping onto your dream cruise ship, a getaway you’ve yearned for, perhaps even daydreamed about during office hours. It’s your escape from the monotonous routine of daily life, a chance to flaunt those designer shades you’ve been saving. You might have selected the perfect outfit reserved solely for this moment, envisioning yourself gazing back at the city while seagulls circle above.

Boarding Reality on a Cruise Ship Vacation

Yet, reality doesn’t always match our expectations. We tend to forget that many others share this dream, resulting in longer lines than anticipated. Standing in a queue with fellow travelers doesn’t quite align with the fantasy, does it? To make matters less idyllic, you might encounter crying babies, bickering elderly couples searching for seats, and individuals with excessive baggage blocking the aisle.

Poolside Paradise Expectation

Let’s talk about the pool-a quintessential cruise ship vacation setting featured in movie shows like “The Love Boat,” and countless ads. We all yearn for that perfect scene: crystal-clear water, a tropical drink in hand, and the feeling of finally being on the vacation you’ve always craved. In your fantasy, you’ve probably even imagined water slides and an endless row of sunbeds, each occupied by sunbathers with perfect bodies. As you soak in the sun, a handsome server approaches, offering you another piña colada or perhaps a margarita.

Poolside Reality

The cruise ship’s top deck often resembles a crowded scene, far from the serene environment you had imagined. The photo gives you a glimpse of what it’s really like. Not exactly the peaceful setting you had in mind, is it? However, even if it’s not the picturesque scene you expected, there’s a silver lining. The abundance of people around you opens up opportunities to make new friends. Before you know it, you might forge lifelong connections.

Hot Tub Delight Expectation

Now, let’s talk about the hot tub, the prized jewel of the cruise ship that attracts all the visitors looking to unwind. Advertisements often depict this scene as glamorous, with people raising drinks adorned with little parasols and having endless fun. It’s an image that entices many to embark on a cruise. In the background, you spot chic chairs where you can recline and listen to soothing lounge music that transports you into full vacation mode. Everyone appears relaxed and happy, forming cozy pairs and flirting. It feels like a grand, sophisticated, and captivating party.

Hot Tub Disappointment Reality

Unfortunately, your dreams about the perfect cruise ship vacation are about to be shattered again. Other guests on the ship have harbored similar fantasies while toiling away in their cramped office cubicles, hoping for time to pass faster. And guess what? You’ll likely encounter them all on the cruise in the hot tub. Instead of the peaceful atmosphere with relaxing lounge music, you’re met with generic pop tunes blaring from the speakers and constant chatter from those around you. Just when you think you can handle the noise, a crying baby pierces your eardrums.

Room Expectations

Room choices vary in comfort, depending on your budget, but the ideal view often involves gazing at the golden horizon from the luxurious embrace of your bed. The lighting is crucial too, just right-not too bright or dim-creating a flattering ambiance for effortless photo-taking. You can upload these envy-inducing snapshots and make non-cruise-goers green with jealousy. Comfort, luxury, perfect lighting, Instagram-worthy photos-what more could you ask for?

Room Reality

However, the reality of cruise ship vacation rooms can fall short of expectations. The lighting often feels more like what you’d find in an improvised emergency room than a cruise cabin. And if you were hoping for opulent interiors, prepare for a bit of disappointment. Brochures might promise spacious suites, but in truth, cruise ship accommodations are far from the roominess of a Hilton. Cruise companies need to maximize occupancy to cover their expenses, so what you’re essentially paying for is, well, a lack of space.

Entertainment Expectations

Some cruisers look forward to more than just the rooms or hot tubs; they anticipate the chance to see famous bands perform onboard. After all, you’ve invested a significant sum in this ticket, so it’s reasonable to expect that some of that money went into booking a performer you’re at least somewhat familiar with. It might not be Rihanna or Drake, but perhaps a mid-tier artist who knows how to get the crowd going. That’s the cruise experience-relaxation, entertainment, and letting loose.

Entertainment Reality

However, the reality can be quite different. Sometimes, the onboard artist feels like they should be paying to perform on the cruise rather than getting paid. And in unfortunate cases, there might not be any notable artist at all, just a random person next to your cabin blasting “Who Let the Dogs Out” incessantly. Before you book your cruise ship vacation ticket, scrutinize the entertainment lineup carefully. Are the performers the real deal, a tribute act, or complete unknowns? It’s essential to verify, especially when you’re parting with months’ worth of savings for your dream cruise. If you’re content with any entertainment, that’s fine. Otherwise, you might end up wasting your money.

Casino Fantasies

For some cruisers, the hot tub isn’t the main attraction; they’re eager to hit the casino and try their luck with some well-earned cash. Despite the already high trip cost, the allure of gambling-roulette, blackjack, or slot machines-can be irresistible. So, you make your way to the casino with visions of slot machines chiming loudly and coins cascading or you dominating at blackjack. You imagine a lavish setting with Baccarat crystal chandeliers, women in elegant gowns, and men in tuxedos, reminiscent of James Bond in “Casino Royale.” You expect it to be just like the movies because, honestly, where else have you seen cruise ship gambling besides in brochures?

Cruise Ship Vacation Casino Reality Check

Unfortunately, the reality of the ship’s gambling facilities may leave you disappointed. The tables and chairs, while not shabby, prioritize function over ornate design. There might be a dress code, but don’t expect to find a sea of gentlemen in white jackets. Plus, there might not be enough machines and games to accommodate everyone at all times. So, if you’re already having a bad day due to dashed expectations, losing money on the one available game or machine can make it worse because there are no other options.

The Ship’s Grandeur Expectation

We often get captivated by those majestic online images of cruise ships, and somewhere in the back of our minds, a little voice whispers that all cruise ships are roughly the same size. You anticipate that the ship you’re boarding will be as colossal and glamorous as those you’ve seen in your Google searches. The sight of long lines of rooms on the ship’s side makes it appear like a floating city. This might indeed be the case on many cruise ships, especially considering that the destinations often have smaller populations than the vessel itself. Those islands can certainly feel tiny in comparison!

The Ship’s Grandeur Reality

However, reality can diverge significantly. Cruise ships come in various sizes; some resemble ferries more than vessels capable of crossing the Atlantic without things tumbling over in heavy waves. As you approach what looks less like the ship in the brochure and more like the toy boat you found in your cereal box this morning, you might contemplate requesting a refund for that cruise ship vacation. Frankly, it appears as though this thing might need towing back for repairs after even the slightest storm.

Read: Mom Delivers Epic Rant After Forgetting to Pack Her Own Clothes on a Family Trip.

Age Demographic Expectations

Cruise ship vacation advertisements often misrepresent the actual age demographic of cruisers. They tend to showcase youthful, radiant individuals with huge smiles, partying the night away. While they may not be supermodels, they’re portrayed as young, exceptionally attractive, and seemingly well-off enough to afford a cruise. If you solely rely on what the ads show, it appears dreamlike. However, a bit of skepticism might make you question whether this portrayal holds true.

Age Demographic Reality

As you step aboard, you notice lines for check-in and lines on people’s faces-many, many lines. The age group onboard appears older than anticipated. You start to wonder if this is the sexy, youthful cruise promised in the ads or a pricey floating senior living facility. Perhaps you spot a few silver foxes as you navigate the crowds, but they’re the minority, often accompanied by a significant other. Gradually, you realize this isn’t the floating Ibiza party you envisioned; instead, it seems like the entire senior population of Fort Lauderdale has chosen this ship as their home for the next few weeks.

Cruise ship vacation Dining Expectations

So far, your expectations have been met with disappointment, but there must be some aspect of the cruise that aligns with the promises, even just a bit, right? Let’s explore the dining room. Surely, this can’t disappoint. In your mind, you’ve pictured crystal chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, a menu offering gourmet delights that your taste buds and waistline don’t mind indulging in, and servers in elegant uniforms always wearing a smile, perhaps even anticipating your needs. Does this fantasy match the onboard reality?

Cruise ship vacation Dining Reality

In truth, the actual dining room on a cruise ship might resemble more of a school cafeteria or mess hall than the glamour and elegance you expected. As you approach, you can’t help but wonder if you’re on a luxury cruise or a rugged Arctic expedition. The menu choices could also leave something to be desired. Don’t get me wrong; there are moments when the food is gourmet and quite enjoyable. However, you might wonder if the cruise ship’s menu was copied straight from your local YMCA back home.

Weather Expectations

Cruise ship vacation ads never feature bad weather because it’s bad for business. You’ll always see rainbows, sunshine, and clear blue skies. Rain seems nonexistent! Imagine yourself basking in the sun, working on your tan, and marveling at why you didn’t go on a cruise sooner. Your mind drifts to all the Instagram updates you’ll post, showcasing your tan and the exotic ports where the ship docks. You pity everyone back home, stuck behind their desks while you embark on the adventure of a lifetime aboard a floating paradise.

Weather Realities

Those familiar with tropical weather know it can switch from sunny to a fierce storm in moments. You might find yourself pondering whether it’s time to start loading pairs of animals onto the ship, much like Noah and his ark. Sailing to northern regions doesn’t guarantee calm weather either. You might not even catch sight of the horizon due to fog on the deck. Heavy rain and strong waves could prevent passengers from going on deck. So, you end up gazing out the window, waiting for the rain to stop, much like you did while sitting in your cubicle back home.

Onboard Activities Expectations

The onboard facilities and activities often don’t align with your expectations. You might have envisioned yourself participating in thrilling activities or enjoying a water slide while your significant other waits below to catch you. It sounds like the perfect way to unwind from work, right? Cruise ship vacation companies often portray their water slides as larger-than-life, sometimes even bigger than the ship itself, regardless of how implausible it may seem. But if it appears too good to be true, there’s probably a reason for that.

Onboard Activities Reality

The actual leisure activities available onboard can be disappointingly mundane, as seen in this photo. Instead of a sun-soaked adventure or hours of thrilling water slide rides, you find yourself carving fruit or putting faces on fruit, resembling an elementary school arts and crafts class. While you ponder how you spent your savings to carve fruit at sea, fellow participants begin to walk away in frustration. Steam may as well emerge from their ears as they storm back to their cramped cabins. Staff don’t need a closer look to realize that guests are furious and on the warpath. They politely, though slightly panicked, step aside.

Spa Expectations on a Cruise Ship Vacation

When you envision a cruise ship spa, you often picture something more upscale, akin to the photo. You imagine a couple’s massage and heavenly treatments that leave you smelling like a garden of roses. The plush benches you lie on are impeccably clean, and the towels are fluffier than cotton-they look and feel brand new. But do you honestly think the staff went through all this trouble after you snagged that discount cruise ticket from the local newspaper? Not likely!

Spa Reality on a Cruise Ship Vacation

Waking up in the cruise ship spa after your massage feels more like emerging from cryosleep in a sci-fi movie like “Alien.” While there’s no bloodthirsty monster chasing you, shall we say, the air carries the scents of people who might not prioritize hygiene or perfume like you do. It can certainly spoil any post-massage romantic plans with your partner. As you avoid glancing at the half-naked stranger to your left, who shouldn’t be in that state in public (or even in private, in your opinion), you can’t help but wonder if things are as clean as they should be. Plus, there’s no way to unsee the half-naked stranger.

Souvenir Shopping Expectations

Some individuals love shopping just for the sake of it, without necessarily intending to bring back items for friends and family. If you’re not a fan of such shoppers, you might feel they spend too much time in shops instead of exploring the local sights at the cruise ship’s destinations. However, if you’d rather shop than take in the scenery or immerse yourself in the local culture, that’s your prerogative. Shopping can still be a form of cultural immersion. Just consider bargaining for that artisanal piece you plan to gift your mother-in-law. She may still not appreciate it, but at least you managed to haggle a bit.

Souvenir Shopping Reality

The souvenirs you buy on a cruise ship vacation might resemble items you’d find in a run-down downtown shop back home rather than something authentic or special enough to pass down as an heirloom. The unique pieces of art you seek often fall short of expectations. Then there are the t-shirts, hanging in colorful rows at beachfront stores, swaying in the breeze. They look cool, so you buy one and look like a walking advertisement for the island, just like everyone else on the cruise ship.

Dolphin and Whale Watching Expectations

You didn’t embark on this cruise to lounge by the pool or engage in semi-uncomfortable conversations with individuals old enough to be your grandparents. No, you came to witness orcas and cheerful dolphins because you can’t get over your fascination with Flipper even after all these years. Standing on deck at the magical hour, you eagerly anticipate the dolphins and perhaps even whales emerging from the sparkling blue sea. You ignore warnings not to lean too far over the railing as you strain to catch a first glimpse. You wait and wait and wait.

Dolphin and Whale Watching Reality

Soon, you realize the star attractions aren’t showing up on your cruise ship vacation. You’re disappointed, even though the brochure made no promises. Where are the leaping orcas? What about the dolphins twirling on their tails on command? Then it dawns on you that the creatures at Sea World are very different from their wild counterparts. They perform those stunts under duress, not because they naturally feel inclined to flip and twirl as requested. You remain in your spot, even as minutes confirm that Flipper and Willy won’t appear. You refuse to give up hope-maybe the dolphins will sense your desire to see them. Why not, right? On a side note, once, I knew a guy working on a cruise ship, and a guest asked him why the humpback whales hadn’t shown themselves yet, as if they followed a schedule.

Beaches Expectations on a cruise ship vacation

When you browse the web, it’s easy to be captivated by the stunning beach photos that grace your screen. Some might be of destinations where the cruise ship will anchor, while others showcase unknown Caribbean islands that are equally, if not more, incredible. Who can resist a beach with pristine white sand, crystal-clear water, and abundant sunshine? Who wouldn’t want to kickstart their vacation ahead of schedule? No one in their right mind would pass up the opportunity to relax on a beach, surrounded by the serene sounds of the wind and gentle ocean waves, hoping the moment would last forever. Oh, and you have the whole beach to yourself, by the way!

Beaches Reality on a Cruise Ship Vacation

More often than not, the beaches where cruise ships dock are far from untouched, and the dream of sunbathing and relaxing in tranquility rarely becomes a reality. These beaches are often crowded tourist spots that have lost some of their charm and marine biodiversity due to excessive tourism. If you’ve ever been to a beach, you know that when the sun is shining, everyone has the same idea-getting a tan and frolicking in the water-consequently, both the shoreline and the water become congested. If you don’t want your beach visit to consist of constantly avoiding others or worse, you might need to adjust your expectations.

Seasickness Expectations

Cruise ship ads make it seem like everyone on board is immune to seasickness. They showcase people smiling, laughing, and appearing to have the time of their lives, never experiencing any discomfort as the ship sways from side to side. The models in these ads never spill a drop of their cocktails or teeter in their high heels because, in reality, the ship is anchored. It creates a convincing illusion, but the truth can be a bit rougher around the edges.

Seasickness Reality

After a few weeks on the cruise, you may start to notice some individuals within groups, like friends and family, who are frequently absent. When they emerge, their partners may look anxious, wondering if their loved ones will ever exit the bathroom. You can almost count on seeing a dad equipped with plastic bags prepared for a kid or two in case of emergencies. At this point, you might start to wonder if you’re part of some peculiar experiment that has been ongoing for weeks, if not months.

“I’m Flying, Jack!” Expectation

Everyone remembers the iconic scene from “Titanic” where Jack (Leonardo DiCaprio) invites Rose (Kate Winslet) to trust him and keep her eyes closed. When he tells her to open her eyes, Rose stands at the ship’s bow with her arms outstretched and exclaims, “I’m flying!” It’s a special moment indeed, and if you ever find yourself on a cruise ship, you might be tempted to recreate it. However, be cautious to avoid any safety risks, as safety should always be a top priority on any trip, whether by air, land, or sea.

“I’m Flying, Jack!” Reality

Even if you attempt to recreate this iconic scene, remember that filming it for the movie involves extensive behind-the-scenes preparation. If you believe you can simply go up to the deck and replicate it for a photo op, in reality, you might be mistaken. While we all want to reenact certain scenes and immerse ourselves in the magic of movies, it’s best to leave this one to the professionals. Leaning out too far might lead to security questioning your actions. It’s safer to follow the example of the woman in the photo.

Working in a Cruise Ship Expectations

Movies often portray cruise ship staff as having simple lives, casually conversing with guests occasionally. We see staff members who appear to be lounging around, prompting us to wonder why no one seems to be working. In the photo, they’re lined up, waiting for something to happen and someone to assist. This might seem ideal, but their working conditions aren’t always as depicted.

Working in a Cruise Ship Reality

Firstly, consider that if you thought your own suite was small, the ones for the ship’s staff and crew are likely even smaller. Unless you have a specialized role on board, you’re often confined to such tight spaces. While the crew is there to work, not vacation, it would be nice for them to have slightly larger accommodations than shown in the photo. Additionally, their working hours are often quite long, leaving them with limited opportunities to explore the destinations where the ship docks.

Read: Horrified dad reveals eye-watering cost of a family trip to Disneyland

Pirates Expectation

Hollywood has given us a romanticized view of pirates, epitomized by characters like Captain Jack Sparrow in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. These movie pirates survive shipwrecks, seek cursed treasures, embark on adventures guided by compasses that don’t seem to work, and deliver witty quips. The portrayal of classical pirates often feels like it’s taken straight from a Shakespearean play, blurring the lines between reality and fiction.

Pirates Reality

In reality, modern-day piracy is a serious issue, especially off the coast of Somalia. Cruise and cargo ships in various regions have had to implement security measures to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. This can include having armed guards on board to deter pirate attacks or installing giant water cannons to repel potential threats. Real-life piracy is far from the glamorous image portrayed in movies, and it certainly doesn’t involve parrots and swashbuckling adventures.

Shipboard Romance Expectation

Many envision a romantic cruise experience with their significant other, complete with a perfect sunset on the deck. In this idealized scenario, you and your partner stand together, gazing into the horizon, feeling like you’re in a classic Hollywood movie. Work and daily life stress melts away as you trade your office attire for elegant outfits, creating a memory that will last a lifetime.

Shipboard Romance Reality

However, real-life cruises often differ significantly from these movie scenes. Cruise ships cater to a wide range of age groups, which means they organize activities that can be noisy and take up space. So, those quiet, romantic moments on deck might be interrupted by screaming kids, adults trying to relive their youth, and activity supervisors shouting instructions through megaphones. Achieving that idealized movie romance on a crowded cruise ship can be challenging, so you might want to consider other options for a romantic evening.

Bathing Accommodations Expectation

Luxury cruise ship photos sometimes showcase lavish bathrooms with plenty of glass and elegant design. While they look great, you might wonder about privacy and visibility if you need to use the restroom when other boats are nearby or if people can see inside. However, when you’re far out at sea, you can enjoy a relaxing moment in these luxurious facilities without any worries. Remember that not all guests on the cruise will have access to bathrooms like this.

Bathing Accommodations Reality

Most guests on a cruise will find their cabin bathrooms to be more modest, like the one shown in the photo. It’s a compact space where you don’t have to get up from the toilet to wash your hands, but it’s certainly not the epitome of luxury. The small size of these bathrooms means everything else has to fit in tight quarters, making it challenging for guests to feel relaxed. It’s a far cry from the opulent restroom depicted in the expectation and might prompt some reconsideration of life choices.

Tours and the Places You’ll Go Expectation

The idealized cruise experience often includes visits to picturesque, tropical destinations where the ship drops anchor at quaint, welcoming villages. Crystal-clear turquoise waters, fine white sand, and the soothing sounds of local music characterize these idyllic places. You can almost taste the aroma of delicious seafood wafting through the air. It’s a world where relaxation and exploration go hand in hand, and every moment feels like a tropical paradise.

Tours and the Places You’ll Go Reality

In reality, not every cruise ship can visit every interesting place, and some islands may require higher fees for cruise ship visits. Additionally, the size of the ship plays a role, as not all ports can accommodate large vessels. If your ship is on the larger side, you might be docked at a commercialized port rather than a secluded tropical paradise. The reality of cruise destinations can vary widely from the dreamy images often portrayed.

Cocktails Expectation

Cruise cocktails often feature tropical flavors like mango, pineapple, kiwi, and coconut. These colorful concoctions, garnished with parasols and fruit slices, look great in photos and provide a taste of the tropics. Plus, they might contain some vitamins (especially in virgin versions), making it easy to enjoy a healthy dose of relaxation and style while sipping these refreshing beverages.

Cocktails Reality

The reality of cruise ship cocktails can be different from the expectation. Availability can vary, and sometimes certain ingredients, like specific fruits, may run out. Late-night parties on cruise ships or anywhere else can lead to messy scenes similar to those created by overenthusiastic frat partygoers. It’s not always a glamorous experience, and the aftermath can be less than appealing.

More Tours Expectation

Cruise passengers often receive catalogs or brochures listing various tour options the cruise company offers. These materials allow passengers to select activities that align with their interests and preferences. These tours are expected to provide memorable and enjoyable experiences, like snorkeling in serene waters teeming with colorful fish.

More Tours Reality

The reality of cruise ship tours can be somewhat different. The limited choices and availability of tours may not always align with passengers’ interests. Opting for a tour can sometimes mean enduring long bus rides with fellow passengers, which might not be as peaceful and quiet as you’d hope. Tour guides may also engage passengers in sing-alongs or other activities that may not be to everyone’s liking. The actual tour experience can vary widely from what’s advertised in brochures.

The Age Demographic on a Cruise Ship Vacation Expectation Part 2

Many people don’t consider the age demographic when booking a cruise, assuming that fellow passengers will be similar in age and interests. This assumption often stems from cruise ads typically featuring models from a specific age group. Once the trip is booked, passengers expect the experience to align with the ad’s portrayal.

The Age Demographic on a Cruise Ship Vacation Reality Part 2

The reality onboard can differ significantly from what’s shown in the cruise ads, especially when family-oriented cruises welcome children. Kids who are active on land become even more exuberant at sea, excited by mascots, music, and novel experiences. Children tend to be loud, and their enthusiasm can disrupt the calm and quiet experience you anticipate. This can lead to disappointment, making you question the value of the money spent on the trip.

The Tender Boat Expectation

After spending days on the cruise ship, passengers often look forward to a change of scenery and new experiences offered by tender boats. They may dress up and expect the tender boat to resemble something sleek and stylish, reminiscent of what they’ve seen in movies like Baywatch. This expectation matches the money spent on the cruise and adds to the excitement of the trip.

The Tender Boat Reality

The tender boat that transports passengers from the ship to an island for shore excursions may not be the sleek and stylish vessel they imagined. It’s a functional, practical boat, and while it gets the job done, it doesn’t offer the glamorous experience some may have expected. This can lead to a sense of disappointment when passengers encounter a utilitarian boat instead of a sleek, stylish one.

A Rejuvenating Trip Expectation

Many people look forward to cruises as a break from their daily routines, especially if they spend their days in a cubicle or in a colder climate. A cruise promises warmth, open spaces, and an opportunity to explore new places and cuisines. Passengers often expect to enjoy fresh, healthy local cuisine and anticipate a rejuvenating experience. The benefits of such a trip seem to outweigh any potential risks.

A Rejuvenating Trip Reality

While indulging in local cuisine on a cruise is a must, it can sometimes lead to digestive discomfort. Trying new spices, herbs, and flavors can shock the body, especially if it’s unaccustomed to such ingredients. The result can be an upset stomach or other digestive issues. To avoid these pitfalls, taking precautions, such as packing necessary medications and being aware of potential allergens is essential. Taking these medical safety measures can ensure that you’re on a first-name basis with fellow cruisers rather than with an upset stomach or other health issues.

A Career in the High Seas Expectation

Imagine you’re having a fantastic time on a cruise: excellent service, comfortable accommodations, and delicious food. However, your departure date is approaching, and leaving seems unthinkable. Living on a cruise ship indefinitely might be unaffordable, but working on one could be a dream come true. You envision a life as part of the staff, traveling the world for free while earning a salary. After all, how challenging could it be to work on a cruise ship when every day feels like a party? You think about all the incredible places you’d visit while working on a cruise ship-a dream job for travel enthusiasts. But before you get too excited, consider a few factors.

A Career in the High Seas Reality

Working on a cruise ship often means sharing living quarters with roommates. You might have just one roommate, or it could be several. If you’re accustomed to living with strangers, it might not be an issue, but it requires significant adjustment for others. Having an assigned roommate also means you can’t predict their personality or whether you’ll get along. Cruise ship jobs often involve long hours for everyone. So if you don’t get along with your roommate, you’ll have to face them regularly in your cramped living space. Of course, it’s possible to become friends, but if not, work can feel never-ending, and you’ll continually bump into each other due to the limited space.

Onboard Safety Expectation

Many people expect cruise ships to be like fortresses, ensuring safety from all potential risks. Cruise ships generally maintain high safety standards, and the staff takes necessary precautions to keep passengers safe. You might anticipate minor incidents like spilled drinks in the restaurant as the most significant issues you’d encounter. Aside from that, you’d assume you can relax without worrying about safety concerns.

Onboard Safety Reality

While cruise ships are generally safe, accidents can happen. People occasionally go overboard due to slipping or taking risks, such as jumping into the water from the boat. It’s essential to be cautious and mindful of safety during your cruise. Enjoy your time on the ship, and make memories, but always prioritize safety. Some activities might seem fun and exciting at the moment, but they can lead to trouble if you take unnecessary risks. Even though the trip might not meet your initial expectations, creating positive and safe memories to look back on fondly is essential.

Keep Reading: 28-year-old buys cruise ship apartment because it's less than renting and he can see the world

• “ Disappointing photos show what it’s actually like to go on a cruise .” Insider . Joey Hadden. June 11, 2023
• “ Expectation vs reality: Reporters share inside look at what cruises are like now .” Over Sixty . Rachel Fieldhouse
• Cruise Ship Vacations: Expectation vs. Reality. Investment Guru . Owen Chase

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