Set Sail in 2021 aboard the Golden Horizon
by Sarah Heron 10 Nov 2020 08:00 PST
Sognefjord landscape © The Cruise Village
Leave 2020 in your wake and escape to new horizons in 2021 on board the brand-new Golden Horizon, the world's largest square-rigged sailing ship.
If the idea of sailing away from it all sounds tempting, but a traditional cruise ship isn't for you, why not join the inaugural voyage of the Golden Horizon in May 2021? Setting sail from Harwich, the stunning, brand-new five-masted sailing ship has been built with every modern luxury, yet maintains the spirit and historic charm of France 11, a 1913-built barque.
The philosophy is to be powered by nature wherever possible, with the intention to sail without using propulsion engines for around 70% of each season. The overseas voyages were designed to use the winds and currents to follow the sun, cruising to remote and magical beaches, ports off the beaten track and stunning hidden coastlines.
Life Onboard
With space for just 272 passengers, wide, spacious decks and interiors, and facilities akin to a floating boutique hotel, life onboard the Golden Horizon offers the chance to totally escape from it all, with plenty of hands-on sailing on offer. All cabins have ocean views, with deluxe cabins boasting a balcony. Relax in the well-appointed stern-facing library, head to the spa for some true R and R, or why not join a yoga class on the sundeck? Two outdoor bars are the ideal place to enjoy the sunset, and should the weather turn, the Piano bar provides every sort of cocktail accompanied by live music.
Throughout the voyage, onboard experts will bring the history and culture of ports of call to life, and there's a packed calendar of events from wine tasting to movies under the stars.
Travel wherever the wind takes you
With the aim of sailing as much as possible, this is very different from the average cruise. Prevailing winds, currents and weather conditions shape each voyage, with the emphasis on discovering hidden beaches, experiencing local culture through carefully planned shore excursions, and bringing the magic of Tall Ship sailing to life, going where larger cruise ships simply can't go. At sea, guests are actively encouraged to take the wheel and experience the thrill of helming the ship under full sail, and while at anchor, you can take full advantage of the Watersports on offer, from snorkelling to pico dinghy sailing and kayaking.
Iconic destinations and unique events
Meticulously planned itineraries have been created around the seasons, iconic destinations and unique events. 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. From Christmas on the Great Barrier Reef to visiting hard-to-find beaches in Bali, Madagascar, the voyages promise a true adventure on the high seas.
7-night Norwegian Fjords from £1,399pp (includes free car parking at Harwich). All fares include full board dining with wine beer & soft drinks in the main dining room during meal hours. Golden Horizon is on sale now - Book with Confidence (Flexible Covid Booking Conditions). Secure your place onboard and call The Cruise Village on 0800 810 8265 or visit thecruisevillage.com/tradewind for more information, itineraries & fares.