Tall Ship Bark EUROPA

About Tall Ship Bark EUROPA

Many people who come on board struggle to believe the history of the hull of this classic three-master. The Special purpose sail training ship EUROPA was built in 1911. In 1994 she was fully restored as a barque (three mast rigged ship) and now roams the seas of the world in the best seafaring tradition. With a professional crew of maximum 14 and a complement of 48 voyage crew members of all ages and nationalities, EUROPA is powered by canvas and co-operation. Tall Ships enthusiasts, some with no sailing experience, take the wheel, hoist the yards, navigate, etc. In a light breeze 30 sails billow from EUROPA, taking her towards the horizon.

Each year there are different voyages on the schedule: expeditions to Antarctica, Tall Ships Races, and ocean crossings - an experience that many dream of, and none will forget.

ANTARCTICA

From December to March, in the Southern summer, the EUROPA sails to the Antarctica Peninsula. These voyages appeal to the sailing enthusiast, the birdwatcher, the photographer, the artist and the nature-lover who want to discoverthe unspoilt environment. The expeditions start in Ushuaia, Argentina, the most southern city in South America. Frome here, the ship must cross 'the Drake Passage', known to sailors all over the world. In the Antarctic waters, the EUROPA will anchor in sheltered bays practically every day. The crew will take groups ashore in the dighies to see glaciers, seals, brids and penguin rookeries. Our experienced guide will give you information about the flora and fauna and will also tell you where to find bird and sea elephant colonies.

Steep glaciers, walls of ice with magical shapes and surreal colours will surround the EUROPA.

OCEAN CROSSINGS

Bark EUROPA follows the favourable winds of traditional sailing routes. Our voyages bring us to different islands and cities/ This gives you the possibility to step on board halfway through a long ocean crossing. Everyone on board will be assigned to the watch system to navigate and steer the ship and to hoist and lower the sails. Sailing experience is not required. The permanent crew is happy to explain everything about navigation, sail handling, square rig sailing and more. As one team you will sail to new horizons and experience all aspects of a sailor's life on board.

The occasional passing ship might think they are in a different era when they see the Bark EUROPA sailing by with up to 30 sails.

TALL SHIPS RACES

In the Northern summer EUROPA participates in the Tall Ships Races, the largest international ocean races for sail-training ships in the world. Races occur in various parts of the world with millions of spectators.

Although everyone is keen to race each other at sea, it is not all about winning. The Tall Ships Race is an event where adults and youngsters from all nations and social backgrounds can meet in a challenging environment.