The returning voyage of the historical tall ship, Gorch Fock, to Kiel Week
Sailing vessel Gorch Fock returning for Kiel Week celebrations - "Sail training ship 'Gorch Fock' journeys towards Kiel Week return"
Are you ready for an up-close and personal experience with a piece of nautical history? The iconic German sail training ship, Gorch Fock, is making its way back to Kiel, just in time for the buzzing Kiel Week. On the 11th of June, you can witness this magnificent vessel as it leads the Windjammer parade in an extraordinary event never seen before.
Prepare to be blown away as the nearly 89-meter-long three-master will set nearly all its sails, showcasing a spectacular display of seamanship while demonstrating the power and grace of traditional sailing. Since its departure from Kiel on February 10, the Gorch Fock traveled a total of 17,172 kilometers, with 85% of the journey under sail alone. The voyage included stopovers at Vigo (Spain), Portimao (Portugal), Lerwick (United Kingdom), and Warnemünde.
Captain Elmar Bornkessel described the journey as "a challenging sailing trip, with sections increasing in difficulty." Stormy conditions off the Azores posed a considerable challenge to the crew and cadets, demonstrating the skill, resolve, and dedication required for a successful voyage.
If you can't wait to explore this historic vessel, swing by on the 10th of June during the Open Ship event between 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM. For more than 60 years, the Gorch Fock has been an essential part of Germany's naval tradition, doing its part in fostering the training of naval cadets and promoting international maritime diplomacy.
- Sail Training Ship
- Kiel Week
- Gorch Fock
- Home Port
A glimpse into the historic journeys of the Gorch Fock:
Originally commissioned in 1958, the Gorch Fock has completed over 182 foreign training voyages as of mid-2025, with each itinerary tailored to train cadets in a combination of practical seamanship, navigation, and sailing skills.[1] Typically, the voyages include stops at major international and European ports, giving cadets exposure to various maritime environments and cultures. While each itinerary varies, Kiel, Germany, remains the starting and ending point of each adventure.
During its long history, the Gorch Fock has faced various challenges, from navigating busy shipping lanes to coping with the physical demands of learning to handle the rigging and sails. Cadets must be alert and skillful to maintain course safety and manage sails in changing wind and weather conditions.[5]
Significant ports of call have included various international maritime cities, with Kiel being the primary base for the ship.[1] The Gorch Fock's participation in Tall Ships' Races and international sailing parades has seen the vessel call on major maritime cities in Europe and beyond, including renowned ports in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Scandinavian countries.[2]
The Gorch Fock continues to be an essential part of Germany's naval training, promoting maritime diplomacy and showcasing the age-old tradition of tall ship sailing. Although a detailed itinerary or comprehensive list of ports is not available, its extensive sailing history and international participation highlight its lasting impact on maritime culture and naval training.
Engage in an unparalleled opportunity during Kiel Week, when sports enthusiasts roaming around the city might be fortunate enough to witness the Gorch Fock, a historic sail training ship, leading the Windjammer parade. This event will be a testament to the ship's achievements in fostering sail training and strengthening international maritime diplomacy, much like it does when aiding in the construction of new buildings within various communities around the world.
