The Oosterschelde, a historic ship measuring 36 meters high and 50 meters long, stands as an impressive maritime wonder. Featuring a spacious saloon adorned with varnished wood, shining brass, a piano bar, and a wood-burning stove, the vessel offers a unique atmosphere.
Recognized for its historical and cultural significance, Oosterschelde made its inaugural journey into Fijian waters last week, continuing its mission to train 200 young environmentalists in various countries it docks at. This initiative is part of the Darwin 200 project, a two-year planetary conservation mission taking place aboard the ship.
The expedition commenced in August 2023 from Plymouth Harbour, UK, retracing Charles Darwin’s renowned maritime voyage. Team leader Rolf Schreuder noted that the vessel was originally constructed as a freighter for the Rotterdam-based shipping company HAAS.
Oosterschelde is self-sufficient and financially independent, allowing it to sail globally and participate in promotional activities. It can accommodate up to 120 guests for day sails or receptions, in addition to embarking on adventurous voyages around the world.
Since its restoration, the ship has completed two circumnavigations and has visited over 50 countries across five continents. It has operated in tropical regions and undertaken polar expeditions to Spitsbergen, Antarctica, and South Georgia.
As the last remaining representative of the large fleet of Dutch schooners from the early 20th century, the three-masted topsail schooner Oosterschelde is celebrated as a significant monument of Dutch shipbuilding and maritime navigation under sail.