Announcement: The good news is after only 3 weeks, my Kickstarter fundraiser to help me get to the Arctic Circle 2019 Arts & Sciences Expedition residency is half-way to goal. My gratitude to those who have pledged is immeasurable.
In this blog I want to give more details about the tall ship, The Antigua.
THE ANTIGUA’S HISTORY
The three-mast sailing ship Antigua was built in 1957 in Thorne (UK) and sailed as a fishing vessel in her early years, until she was purchased in the early 1990s by Dutch tall ship enthusiasts and re-fitted thoroughly as a barkentine for passenger traffic.
Since then, the Antigua has 16 twin passenger cabins, each with individual toilet and shower and a small porthole (the two front cabins have the porthole actually in the bathroom). The Antigua is a regular sight in Spitsbergenʼs fjords since 2009.
Occasionally, the crew needs participants to help during sailing manoeuvres. As a sailor, I will consider it part of the adventure. Sailing experience is not necessary, as the crew will always be there to supervise.
ANTIGUA TALL SHIP DETAILS
The ship sails under the Dutch flag. Home port is Franeker near Harlingen (NL). There are 7 crew, the Captain, navigators and deck/service crew, mostly Dutch and German but also speaking English. There are also an Expedition Leader and an experienced, knowledgeable guide/lecturer.
Electricity 220 V with European standard plug. Length(complete) 49.50 metres. Width 7.13 metres. Draft 3.10 metres. Maximum sail area 750 m2
Main engine Cummins 400 PS. Speed 5-7 knots, depending on currents & weather. Bow thruster Yes. Certificate number 9336ZZ