Cruise-in-Company through the Norwegian Fjords as Crew of Gulden Leeuw in The Tall Ships Races 2019

Join the tall ship Gulden Leeuw in Fredrikstad on July 13th 2019, in the midst of The Tall Ship Races Fredrikstad 2019, for an unforgettable 10 day adventure that both begins and ends in Norway. You'll be getting hands on with setting the sails, steering the ship, keeping watch and more throughout the voyage and the best part is that no experience is required in order to join - you'll be taught everything you need to know before you need to know it at every stage throughout the journey.

After onboard briefings and a little time to get to know your shipmates you'll be primed to take part in The Tall Ships Races 2019 as crew of Gulden Leeuw. You'll be sailing with land in sight throughout most of the voyage.

Tall Ships from all over the world will come together to compete in the 63rd annual Tall Ships Races. The Cruise in Company is a more laid-back leg of the event, where speed doesn’t matter so much and you will have the time to enjoy the leisurely sailing. This year you will explore the stunning Norwegian coast on the way from Fredrikstad to Bergen. Take in the surroundings and enjoy sailing with your fellow trainees before joining the port events.

You will be a trainee on board the Gulden Leeuw. Under the watchful eye of professional crew members you will be responsible for sailing the Ship from setting and trimming the sails, through looking out for other vessels, to navigating and steering. You will have day and night watches, and also some time to relax and enjoy the journey!

By entering the International Exchange program not only will you sail the high seas with your peers but you will also learn about other cultures. With many nationalities on board you will enjoy national dinner parties, debates, games to bridge the cultural differences. Aside from the professional sailing Crew, during International Exchanges the mentors will organize your activities and be there for you if you need someone to talk to.

You will be divided into watches and work on the Ship in shifts of 4 hours on, 8 hours off. That means two watches per day: one in daytime and one in the night, as the Ship doesn’t stop sailing when it gets dark! Don’t worry, your sleep pattern will soon adjust. The language on board will be English – simple English. Most of your activities will be carried out as a team. By the time you reach the destination port you will be like a family. Warning: it’s not easy to say goodbye!

Your journey aboard this beautiful 3 Masted Topsail Schooner will end in Bergen where you'll find yourself a part of The Tall Ships Races Bergen 2019 and disembark on July 23rd. Please note you need to be aged between 15 and 28 in order to join this voyage. If you'd love to join this voyage but simply can't afford it, check to see if you qualify for funding via the Sultanate of Oman Bursary Fund 2019.