What is the largest traditional sailing ship in the world?
The world’s largest traditional sailing ship is the Sedov, a Russian four-masted barque measuring 117 meters in length that has been sailing since 1921. Other contenders for the title include the Kruzenshtern and the Moshulu, both impressive steel vessels from the early twentieth century. In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about large traditional sailing ships: from the differences between them to whether you can sail on one yourself.
Which sailing ships are considered the largest in the world?
The world’s largest traditional sailing ships are the Russian four-master Sedov (117 meters), the Kruzenshtern (114 meters), and the Moshulu (98 meters). These vessels are also known as tall ships and stand out for their enormous rigging, multiple masts, and hundreds of square meters of sail. They were built in the late nineteenth or early twentieth century and most are still sailing today.
Alongside these giants, there are also newer ships that make a strong impression. The Royal Clipper, a modern five-master built in 2000, is technically longer than the Sedov at 134 meters, but it is classified as a cruise ship with sailing rigging and is not always considered a traditional sailing vessel by purists. The line between “traditional” and “modern” is not always clear-cut.
What all these ships have in common is their historic rigging: square sails on horizontal yards, a sharp bow, and an imposing presence at sea. They represent an era of sailing in which speed, wind power, and seamanship were everything.
What is the difference between a clipper, a barque, and a frigate?
A clipper, a barque, and a frigate are different types of sailing ships distinguished by their rigging and hull design. A clipper has a sharp, fast hull with full square rigging on all masts and is designed for maximum speed. A barque carries fore-and-aft rigging on its rearmost mast instead of square sails, which keeps the required crew smaller. A frigate is a historic ship class with three masts and full square rigging, originally used as a warship.
The clipper: built for speed
Clippers were developed in the nineteenth century for fast sailing on long trade routes, such as the tea route from China or the wool route from Australia. Their sharp underwater hull and tall sail plan made them the fastest ships of their time. The rigging consists of square sails on all masts, supplemented by jibs and staysails for extra drive in favorable winds.
The barque: efficient and versatile
A barque resembles a clipper, but its rearmost mast is fitted with fore-and-aft rigging — meaning sails that run along the length of the ship rather than across it. This makes the vessel slightly slower on downwind courses, but considerably easier to handle with a small crew. Many of the large tall ships still sailing today are barques.
How fast can large traditional sailing ships travel?
In favorable winds, large traditional sailing ships average 8 to 12 knots (approximately 15 to 22 kilometers per hour). The fastest historical clippers, such as the Cutty Sark and the Thermopylae, reached peak speeds of 17 to 18 knots in stormy conditions. Modern tall ships with a well-designed hull can achieve comparable speeds, depending on wind strength and heading.
Speed in sailing vessels depends heavily on wind direction and sail configuration. With a fair wind — coming from behind or the side — clippers can set their full sails and reach maximum speed. Sailing into the wind requires tacking, which significantly reduces average speed.
A prime example of modern sailing performance is the Clipper Stad Amsterdam, which reaches 15 knots in favorable conditions and won the Cutty Sark Tall Ships’ Race in 2001. This demonstrates that a well-built modern clipper ship can fully match the performance of its historic predecessors.
Can you sail on a traditional sailing ship?
Yes, you can sail as a passenger on a traditional sailing ship. Various organizations and shipping companies offer voyages where you board a tall ship or historic sailing vessel as a paying guest. Experiences range from simple day trips to multi-day ocean crossings and luxury cruises in the Caribbean. No sailing experience is required to come aboard.
The options vary widely in comfort and style. Some ships are modestly appointed and focused on adventure, with passengers actively helping to sail the vessel. Others offer a boutique hotel experience on board, complete with private cabins, prepared meals, and a professional hospitality team.
Things to consider when choosing a sailing voyage:
- Group size: smaller ships offer a more intimate experience than large cruise ships
- Comfort: check whether private cabins are available or whether you share a cabin
- Destination: from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, the route largely sets the tone
- Authenticity: some ships sail entirely on wind power, while others use engines as a supplement
- Sustainability: a growing number of operators are switching to cleaner fuels such as HVO
Sail on an iconic clipper ship with Clipper Stad Amsterdam
Would you like to experience what it feels like to sail on an authentic traditional sailing ship? Clipper Stad Amsterdam offers exactly that. On board this three-masted clipper — which won the Cutty Sark Tall Ships’ Race in 2001 — we sail to the most beautiful destinations in the Caribbean. During the day you cruise the open sea with 2,200 square meters of sail overhead; in the evening we anchor in a secluded bay.
What sets the luxury sailing cruise apart from other voyages:
- A maximum of 28 guests on board, across 14 private cabins
- Fully catered: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and cocktails prepared by our chefs
- Authentic hand sailing, operated by a young and dedicated crew
- Activities including snorkeling, day excursions, and relaxing on white-sand beaches
- Sails on HVO wherever possible, a more sustainable fuel
Prices for our cruises start from €5,300 per person. Ready to set sail yourself? Book your voyage directly online, or contact us for more information about availability and what’s on offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need sailing experience to sail on a tall ship like the Stad Amsterdam?
No, sailing experience is not required. The professional crew handles all navigation and sail operations. As a guest, you are welcome to actively help out or simply sit back and enjoy the voyage — the choice is yours. Good physical fitness and an open mind are the only real requirements.
What is the difference between a tall ship cruise and a regular cruise?
A tall ship cruise offers a far more intimate and authentic experience than a conventional cruise. Instead of thousands of passengers on a large motor vessel, you sail with a small group on a historic sailing ship that actually travels under wind power. The atmosphere is more adventurous, the destinations are often off the beaten path, and the connection with the crew and fellow guests is much more personal.
Can I get seasick on a large traditional sailing ship?
Seasickness is possible, even on large sailing ships, particularly in rough seas or when tacking into the wind. Larger vessels like the Stad Amsterdam generally move more steadily than small yachts, but some motion is always present. It helps to take preventive medication, get fresh air, and keep your eyes on the horizon; most people adjust to the ship's movement after one or two days.
When do the major tall ship events and races take place, and can I attend them?
The best-known events are the annual Tall Ships Races, organized by Sail Training International, which take place each summer in European port cities. There is also the large-scale SAIL Amsterdam, held once every five years, which draws hundreds of thousands of visitors. During these events the ships are moored in the harbor and can often be viewed free of charge from the quayside.
How are large traditional sailing ships maintained and funded today?
Most historic tall ships are maintained through a combination of government subsidies, foundations, sponsorship, and revenue from passenger sailing or charter. Ships such as the Sedov and the Kruzenshtern are operated by Russian maritime training institutes and serve as training vessels for cadets. Privately operated ships like the Stad Amsterdam cover their costs largely through cruise voyages and event charters.
What should I pack for a multi-day voyage on a traditional sailing ship?
Pack layers, as the weather at sea can change quickly, even in warm destinations like the Caribbean. Non-slip, soft-soled shoes are required on board to protect the deck and to move around safely. Don't forget sun protection, a windproof jacket, and any seasickness medication you may need; the operator will typically inform you in advance about specific clothing recommendations and what is available on board.
Are there sustainable alternatives to traditional marine fuels on modern tall ships?
Yes, a growing number of operators are switching to more sustainable alternatives. HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) is currently one of the most widely used replacements for conventional diesel and produces up to 90% less CO₂. Ships like the Stad Amsterdam already run on HVO wherever possible, and the industry is also exploring hydrogen and hybrid propulsion as future options for cleaner sailing.