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Großherzogin Elisabeth

pages.ships.cruiseTypeClassicpages.ships.cruiseTypeHeritageTraining

Großherzogin Elisabeth is a three-masted gaff schooner built in 1909 in the Netherlands, launched as the cargo schooner San Antonio — the world's first motor sailor with a diesel engine. After decades trading, capsizing off Copenhagen, and a stint as the Mediterranean cruise ship Ariadne, she was bought in 1982 by an Elsfleth ship owner and rebuilt as a sail training vessel. Now Germany's only active sail training ship in the merchant marine tradition, she's run entirely by a volunteer crew, carrying up to 40 trainees on day cruises along the Weser, weekend trips in the German Bight, and extended North Sea and Baltic voyages each summer. She regularly competes in Sail Training International regattas.

1909
schooner
63.7 m
Worldwide

Set sail with Großherzogin Elisabeth. Experience cruises full of excitement, relaxation and discovery

On board Großherzogin Elisabeth, hands-on sailing cruises await, where you'll learn to sail without prior experience – steer, navigate, dive and feel the rhythm of the ocean under sail. What makes these cruises special?

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Authentic hands-on sailing

On this historic tall ship you'll gain practical sailing lessons under the guidance of an experienced crew.

Ecological approach and closeness to nature

Cruises emphasize sustainable contact with the ocean – expect diving from Zodiacs, observing wildlife and relaxing under the stars, without mass tourism, providing deep soul renewal.

Variety of cruise types

From training to tourist – on Großherzogin Elisabeth you'll get a combination of adventure and luxury, like fine dining under sail or snorkeling in crystal clear waters, building unforgettable memories.

Comfort with a touch of history

Expect unique cabins with bathrooms, a library and bar on board – this distinguishes the ship, offering 'old money' elegance with a splash of salt, ideal for families, couples or groups seeking authentic maritime elegance.

Stepping aboard a tall ship can feel daunting: unfamiliar rules, a new routine and life at sea. Voyage formats vary, so start with one that matches your experience, mobility and preferred level of participation.
Many leisure and introductory voyages welcome first-time sailors, while training and expedition voyages can be more demanding. Check the operator’s age, fitness, mobility, swimming and participation requirements before booking. We help you compare the available information, and the operator confirms whether a voyage is suitable for you.
Training, leisure, expedition or a short sailing experience? Compare dates, routes, ships and operator information to choose a voyage that suits you. If anything is unclear, contact the operator before booking.
Not sure how to prepare, what to pack, how to get to the port?
Don't worry - check our FAQ, you'll find full guidance, packing lists and support before you sail. You focus on dreams of waves and stars, we take care of the rest. If you have questions, our team is here to help!
Safety at sea is a priority - we understand concerns, especially if you're sailing with loved ones or for the first time.
Certification, crew qualifications, accessibility and family suitability are specific to each ship, operator and voyage. Review the operator’s current safety information and joining requirements before booking.

Concerns we know only too well

A sailing cruise should be exciting, not stressful. And yet - we know that feeling. Doubts whether you'll cope. Chaos in offers. Questions about logistics that no one answers straight. We listen to passengers and travellers - we know what holds them back from setting sail.

Illustration of a sailing ship

Sign up before we sail away

Join our crew and let the sea itself remind you of adventure. We'll send you inspiration, new voyages and sea stories that smell of salt and freedom.