Embarking on a sailing adventure with Golden Horizon

HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE

Originally designed by Polish naval architect Zygmunt Choren, Golden Horizon is thought to be the largest sailing ship ever built. The 160-metre-long, 272-passenger vessel is based on France II, a French five-mast windjammer built in 1911. Its defining feature is, of course, its towering masts, but the liner also features a classical design throughout, with every rail, wall, chair and table clad in polished wood, and a reception hall emblazoned with historic trinkets and pictures.

Meanwhile, modern amenities onboard include a gym, spa, library, boutique, snow room and sauna, plus a selection of pools and bars.

The dive pool, located on the upper reardeck, gives clients the opportunity to experience scuba diving alongside trained professionals. It also makes the function room a truly unique area, as the tank descends into the rear of the hall creating what can only be described as a human aquarium.

Adventurous guests can try their hand at sailing by helping the crew to deploy the masts. They can also take on paddle boarding, diving and canoeing from the stern of the vessel, among other watersports activities. For a more relaxing experience, the onboard library and boutique are available for literature and retail therapy, while the spa and sauna allow for a spot of physical and mental recuperation.

CRUISE CUISINE

The cabins range from single occupancy rooms with en-suite facilities to deluxe front-end suites.

My cabin is a deluxe suite, which comes with a private balcony, double bed, en-suite bathroom and small lounge area. I was particularly impressed by the amount of storage on offer. My luggage for a two-night voyage fits in just one of the four wardrobes, and there is ample drawer and cupboard space available.

In terms of dining, the gourmet experience presented by Canadian-born executive chef Derek Allan is unrivalled. On my first night I opt for the antipasti to start, followed by a beef wellington and a blueberry and almond
crumble for desert. Not only is the food impeccable but so is the service.

Staff couldn’t be more accommodating and are willing and available to cater for any special dietary requirements.

Watching the sun kiss the waves that lap against the hull of the ship from the numerous portholes in the dining room while I eat tops off a truly unforgettable dining experience.

YOUNG AT HEART

TravelAbout’s Hamlett tells me she intends to sell Golden Horizon to a younger demographic with an interest in shore-side adventure. “I think there is a real market here for the 25-35 age group who are interested in touring holidays, she says. “The bars are great, and it feels like you’re going on an adventure while onboard.”

Alan McGrory, chief executive of Tradewind Voyages, says the ship offers an authentic small-ship experience. “This ship is perfect for sailing to the smaller ports, [fitting] in with the local aesthetic without ruining the local landscape. We want to make sure we embrace the culture of the ports [we visit].”