Star Clippers is currently building the world’s largest square rigger, what will be the sailing cruise line’s fourth vessel and first new-build since the Royal Clipper launched in 2000. The yet-to-be-named, 300-guest sailing ship will measure in at 8,770 tons, be powered by more than 6,350 square meters of sails, and set sail in the second half of 2017.
The cruise line details the history: “The new ship will technically be a five-masted, square-rigged barque. While the company’s flagship Royal Clipper is modeled on the legendary German sailing ship Preussen, the new member of the fleet will be a near-replica of the even more impressive France II, commissioned in 1911 and the largest square rigger ever built. Just as the original France II eclipsed Preussen more than a century ago as the world’s largest square rigger, the Star Clippers newbuild will replace its sister, Royal Clipper, as the largest ship of its kind afloat today.”
Mikael Krafft, founder and owner of Star Clippers, says: “We have already built the five-masted full ship Royal Clipper, which is very much influenced by the Preussen. This time, we intend to build a ship inspired by France II, an ambition I have had for a long time. The ship’s rig will be identical to France II and dimensions will be very similar, although we have added various features that will make this the most magnificent passenger sailing ship afloat.”
Other ship features will include ample deck space, a water-sports platform at the stern and three pools, one of which will allow sunlight to pass through to the ship’s atrium and dining room below. Regular Star Clippers guests will appreciate favorites like the library, entertaining Tropical Bar and bowsprit net. The ship will feature engine power as well, but will rely primarily on wind power whenever possible.
Star Clippers further details the upcoming ship below:
Shipyard: Brodosplit shipyard, Split, Croatia
Tonnage: 8,770 grt
Hull: Steel
Passengers: 300 in 150 cabins
Crew: 140
Sail: area 6,350 m2
Rig: Five-mast barque
Facilities: Three pools; massage and beauty treatments; watersports platform with equipment; library; function room; piano bar; Tropical Bar; deck bar; sports bar; open seating dining
Cabins: 150 cabins including 34 suites with balconies plus four owner’s cabins.
For more information on Star Clippers, visit the cruise line’s website here.
HEADER IMAGE SOURCE: STAR CLIPPERS