World's largest wooden sailing ship coming to Jersey waters

Monday 20 February 2023

Islanders will be offered a glimpse into the life of an 18th century sailor later this year, with the world's largest wooden sailing ship set to enter Jersey waters.

The Götheborg of Sweden is an exact 1:1 replica of an 18th century Swedish East India Company merchant vessel that sank off Gothenburg in 1745.

It was launched 20 years ago and took 10 years to build.

As part of its 2023 expedition around Europe, it is due to make its first appearance in island waters at the Barclays Jersey Boat Show. 

Last year, the vessel made 13 stops in 11 countries across Europe. More than 60,000 people visited the ship during that time and 500 people served aboard her as deckhands.

Pictured: Over 500 people have crewed the ship as deckhands. 

She will be moored alongside the Albert Pier during the show.

Harbourmaster Bill Sadler said: "The show regularly attracts more than 30,000 visitors, and Götheborg will undoubtedly be one of the main attractions.

"The ship will welcome visitors and provide a special opportunity to glimpse what life was like for an 18th century sailor."

Pictured: Jersey will be the ship's third stop in it's 2023 European Tour.

Götheborg expedition director Kristoffer Bennis said the boat’s crew were "looking forward to a great visit to the Channel Islands".

The ship will arrive after sailing through the Straits of Gibraltar, along the Portuguese coast and across the Bay of Biscay.

After stopping in Jersey, Götheborg is due to continue heading north towards her home port of Gothenburg.

The Barclays boat show will take place between 29 April and 1 May.

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