All aboard Fullriggen Sørlandet

By Celina Tran

In the heart of Kristiansand’s proud maritime tradition, a white-hulled beauty continues to defy time. Fullriggeren Sørlandet, a floating symbol of Norwegian heritage, is more than just a ship; it is an experience, a school, a sanctuary, and, for those lucky enough to come aboard, a life-altering voyage.

Sørlandet was built as a training ship in 1927, and is still fulfilling that role nearly 100 years later, even though what it means to be a training ship has changed.

Built at yard number one in Kristiansand, Sørlandet has been home to over 10,000 young learners since her maiden voyage, and today she is home to an international high school program, A+ World Academy, a floating classroom for students in 11th and 12th grade. Each year, 72 students come aboard not only to study, but to live and work as crew members.

Photo: Daniela Rigual

“They sleep, eat, learn and live in a shared space. It’s more than just an education. You spend ten months living in close quarters with 85 people from all over the world, it changes you. You carry that experience for life,” says Knut Arne Gjertsen, administrative director.

The school year spans ten months and includes visits to 15–20 ports across four continents. From climbing the rigging high above the Atlantic to holding lookout duty under starlit skies, every student becomes part of the ship’s heartbeat.

Photo: Daniela Rigual

Sailing with a purpose

After nearly a century, Fullriggeren Sørlandet Foundation continues its mission to preserve and operate Sørlandet through active use for education, but also to promote interest in traditional Norwegian sailing culture. While the student voyages are at the core of Sørlandet’s mission, the ship’s decks are open to many more. In summer months and between academic journeys, the ship transforms into a platform for customised experiences.

“It’s available for everything from corporate team-building cruises to university-led educational voyages, and from intimate anniversaries to large social events,” says Gjertsen. “This year we’ll be participating in the Tall Ships Races too!”

Photo: Knut Arne Gjertsen

A customisable experience, guests can (literally) try their hand at the ropes or simply kick back, look out on the glittering sea, and enjoy a fine dinner on deck.

As the centennial milestone approaches, the foundation prepares a special celebration. After all, it is not every day that the world’s oldest sailing full-rigged ship turns 100! From her iconic 1933 Atlantic crossing to Chicago to her revolutionary inclusion of female cadets in 1980, Sørlandet has often been ahead of her time. “It will be a loud and fun celebration of our maritime and national story,” adds Gjertsen.