Youth Exploring Voyage Across the Atlantic on the Gorch Fock
The iconic sailing school ship, Gorch Fock, of the German Navy is set to embark on an exciting transatlantic voyage in spring 2026. After stops in Boston and Halifax, the return journey will commence from Halifax, travelling via Iceland to Kiel at the end of July 2026.
The journey will include participation in the "Sail 2025" in Bremerhaven, where the ship will begin its training tour with 30 young people. After this, 75 officer cadets will join the Gorch Fock in Wilhelmshaven.
In Amsterdam, 60 young people will join the ship as part of the project "Sea. Gorch Fock. Experience". Interested parties must complete a special application procedure, which includes three months of basic training and one month in a home defense association.
The Gorch Fock program, known as Work & Travel, has a low entry threshold and requires participants to commit for six months. Successful applicants will also need to complete climbing training on the training mast of the naval school.
It's important to note that while the Gorch Fock is primarily used for naval training, there is no publicly available information indicating that young people can participate in a Work & Travel program specifically on this vessel. For those interested in such opportunities, it is recommended to contact the German Navy or official German youth exchange programs directly for the latest and specific recruitment or participation criteria.
Commander Bornkessel, the ship's commanding officer, emphasizes that the training is not just about maritime skills. It's also about fostering a mindset needed for war and leadership, emphasizing basic virtues like perseverance, teamwork, and courage.
The sailing school ship Gorch Fock is renowned for its naval training cruises, including Baltic Sea and other voyages. This upcoming transatlantic voyage is set to be another memorable journey for those lucky enough to be a part of it. The return to Kiel is scheduled for September 16, marking the end of an extraordinary adventure.
References:
- dpa/mp
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During the transatlantic voyage in 2026, participants in the sea. Gorch Fock. Experience project in Amsterdam will join the historic Gorch Fock sailing school ship. Furthermore, those taking part in the Work & Travel program for six months will also embark on this exciting journey after completing climbing training on the ship's training mast.