The Golden Horizon: The largest sailing ship ever built?
The Golden Horizon is the largest sailing ship in operation today. It is a modern, five-masted, steel-hulled barque modeled after the historic French ship France II (1911). Designed to combine the elegance of a classic tall ship with contemporary luxury, it primarily serves as a luxury cruise vessel.
1. Background and Concept
The Golden Horizon was designed as a tribute to the legendary France II, one of the largest sailing ships of all time. It was built to focus on sustainable cruising, using wind power as its primary propulsion method, supplemented by engines when necessary.
The ship was originally commissioned by Star Clippers, a company specializing in luxury sailing cruises, and was supposed to be named Flying Clipper. However, a legal dispute between the shipbuilder and Star Clippers led to the ship being acquired by Tradewind Voyages, which renamed it Golden Horizon.
2. Design and Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type | Five-masted barque (modern sailing cruise ship) |
| Length Overall | 162.0 meters (531 feet) |
| Beam (Width) | 18.5 meters (61 feet) |
| Draft | 6.4 meters (21 feet) |
| Tonnage | 8,770 GT |
| Sail Area | ~6,350 m² (68,400 sq ft) |
| Passenger Capacity | 272 guests |
| Crew | ~159 |
| Max Speed Under Sail | ~16 knots (Read about maximum hull speed) |
| Engines | Backup diesel engines |
The ship is designed to operate primarily under wind power, using 42 sails, making it the largest sailing ship.
3. Construction and Launch
- Built by: Brodosplit Shipyard, Croatia
- Construction Began: 2015
- Launched: 2017
- Completed: 2021
Despite being launched in 2017, legal issues between Star Clippers and Brodosplit delayed its entry into service. In 2019, Tradewind Voyages acquired the ship and prepared it for luxury sailing cruises.
4. Features and Onboard Experience
Golden Horizon is designed to offer a mix of traditional sailing experiences and modern cruise luxury. Some of its key features include:
A. Classic Sailing Experience
- It is one of the few cruise ships that relies primarily on wind power, reducing fuel use and emissions.
- The ship’s five masts and square-rigged sails allow passengers to experience an authentic tall ship voyage.
B. Luxurious Accommodations
- 140 cabins, each designed in a classic nautical style.
- All cabins have ocean views, and some have private balconies.
- The interior features teak decks, brass fittings, and rich wood paneling, evoking the grandeur of historic sailing ships.
C. Onboard Amenities
- Fine Dining Restaurant: Serves gourmet cuisine with locally sourced ingredients.
- Piano Bar & Lounge: A social hub with live entertainment.
- Wellness & Spa Facilities: Includes a gym, sauna, and spa treatments.
- Marina Platform: Allows direct water access for swimming and watersports.
D. Environmental Sustainability
- The ship can sail up to 70% of the time without engine use, significantly reducing its carbon footprint.
- It follows eco-friendly waste management and uses energy-efficient technologies.
5. Operational History & Routes
Golden Horizon entered service in 2021, offering luxury voyages focused on sustainable and wind-powered travel.
Planned and Current Routes:
- Mediterranean Voyages (France, Italy, Spain, Greece)
- Caribbean Expeditions
- Northern Europe and Arctic Cruises
- Asia-Pacific Journeys (India, Indonesia, Australia)
Unique Selling Point: Unlike modern cruise ships, Golden Horizon focuses on the authentic feel of traditional sailing, catering to those who seek adventure without sacrificing luxury.
6. Challenges & Future
The ship faced several challenges, including delays due to legal disputes and the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected its debut.
In 2022, there were reports of financial difficulties, and the ship was temporarily put up for sale. However, its future remains promising, as there is growing demand for sustainable luxury cruises.
7. Comparison with Other Large Sailing Ships
| Ship | Length | Sail Area | Passenger Capacity | Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| France II (1911) | 146.5m | 6,350 m² | Cargo Only | Largest historic sailing ship |
| Royal Clipper (2000) | 134m | 5,202 m² | 227 guests | Luxury cruise ship |
| Golden Horizon (2021) | 162m | 6,350 m² | 272 guests | Largest sailing cruise ship |
Golden Horizon is more significant than France II and Royal Clipper, making it the largest sailing ship ever built to operate as a passenger vessel.
8. Conclusion
Golden Horizon is a remarkable blend of traditional sailing and modern luxury, offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional cruises. Its elegant design, sustainability efforts, and global travel routes make it the world’s largest and most luxurious sailing ship.
