Hutchison Ports Harwich International has welcomed its first cruise vessel call since 2019 and the start of the Covid crisis. Operated by Tradewind Voyages, the Golden Horizon is the world’s largest square-rigged sailing vessel and one of very few sail-powered cruise ships.

Commenting on the call, Chris Lewis, Chief Executive of Hutchison Ports UK, said: “We are delighted to welcome the Golden Horizon on its first call at Harwich International. The cruise industry has had a very difficult time during the pandemic but despite the challenges of the last 18 months we remain committed to the cruise industry and our existing and new cruise line customers. As Europe and the rest of the world begin to open up once more to UK departing passengers, we will continue to offer the same high level of service and facilities that visitors have always enjoyed at the port.

“This is the first of two calls for the Golden Horizon this year and the start of what we hope will be a long term relationship with Tradewind Voyages. I am not sure when we last saw a sailing ship at Harwich, using wind-power harks back to an earlier time but at the same time is very much up-to-date and in tune with the drive towards greater sustainability.”
On departure from Harwich, the ship will undertake a 10-day cruise along the South Coast during which it will anchor off the Isle of Wight to allow the passengers a unique view of the world-class sailing action of Cowes week.

Although the exterior has an historic feel, the ship itself is new and passengers enjoy all modern luxuries. The 140 cabins all have outside views while passengers in the ship’s suites can also enjoy a concierge service and complimentary 24-hour room service.

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