The Pacific based brigantine specialises in coastal and ocean voyaging through the South Pacific offering authentic crewing opportunities for people of all ages. In choosing a holiday that is an adventure and signing on as voyage crew people of all ages and backgrounds have a rare opportunity to participate in authentic square rig seamanship.

In early May 2011 the 300 ton brigantine Soren Larsen set sail for the islands of the South Pacific on a series of voyages through Polynesia and Melanesia, retracing the wake of Captain James Cook.

"For many of our paying 'voyage crew' this is their first experience of any type of sailing, yet they feel drawn to this type of adventure for their vacation" says Captain Jim Cottier,

"whether they are taking part in a blue water ocean sailing passage, or tropical island cruising in Polynesia, I do promise them a unique experience – to journey to such remote island destinations and experience the authentic Pacific culture, outside of the tourism experience, is very special."

For the guests its a chance to reach places far beyond the reach of conventional tourism and experience the the real Pacific and see local village life, which is far removed from the tourist resort environment. Aboard the crew they feel part of a team and can learn something of traditional sail, practical celestial navigation and traditional Polynesian navigation methods.

Although the crew practice sail-handling, taking sextant sights and the seamanship of centuries past the ship carries modern electronic navigational aids, comfortable modern cabin and facilities for the paying voyage crew, and high tech communications equipment.

Soren Larsen sails with a permanent crew of 12 and a paying trainee Voyage Crew of up to 22. People of all ages from all over the world join the ship for voyages of three weeks or more to experience the authentic tropical South Seas – arriving by tallship to the same destinations as Captain James Cook and the early European explorers.

Privately owned and operated, the ship has been Pacific based for the last 21 years.

The ship is well known for her worldwide adventure voyaging as well as being the star of the classic BBC series 'The Onedin Line' .

Media Berths

There may be space aboard for staff or freelance journalists writing travel or adventure features on 2011 voyages in the South Pacific.

Media should contact - Ian Hutchinson on or .

or email ianhutch@ sorenlarsen.co.nz

Hi res. images and background copy are available.
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