23 March - 07 April 2004
STS KHERSONES

Today, more than ever, those looking for a natural and traditional sea-going experience, have to look long and hard to find a suitable vessel. As cruise ships get ever larger and some would say offer an increasingly 'plastic' experience, it is good to know that there are still some tall ships sailing the Seven Seas that can stir the spirit and take us back to a time when sail was king. Such a vessel is the Khersones (2284 GRT), a three masted windjammer which was built in Gdansk in 1989 as a training sailing vessel for the Academy of Navigation in Odessa.

Completely renovated in 2003 for passenger use, the vessel is still a working ship and in addition to her permanent crew of 40, is also home to approximately 70 cadets.

She is not a high-tech imitation yacht, with computer generated sails and Jacuzzis in every bathroom, but the genuine article. There is accommodation for up to 62 passengers in well designed and newly fitted, comfortable outside cabins with shower and toilet. You will enjoy excellent cuisine prepared by our team of western chefs. Public areas include the Cape Horn Corner, Captain's Salon and Sailors Club. In addition there is a large lecture room and a trainee bridge where passengers are welcome.

An expedition on the tall ship Khersones is a unique experience. As a passenger you can elect to be involved in the daily activity of the ship or simply relax and enjoy observing the sailors and cadets put this marvellous vessel through her paces. With suitable conditions she can average up to 16 knots under sail. However during the period of our expedition the winds are expected to be light so speed under sail will likely be a lot less than 16 kts.

The beauty of these uncommercialised islands is stunning and to sail these waters on such a romantic and elegant vessel makes for a fascinating voyage. If ever an ocean was right for exploring under sail, it is the Indian Ocean.

Under Sail in the Indian Ocean (PDF)