Sam recently spent a couple of nights onboard Tradewind Voyages’ brand new ship, the Golden Horizon, on a test sailing before she welcomed her first-ever guests for her maiden season sailing around the British Isles. Come the Autumn she’ll be setting her course for sunnier climes as she follows the trade winds sailing around the world to new and exotic destinations. Find out what Sam thought of his experience on board this truly unique vessel below.
Itinerary
Portland / Day at Sea / Dover
How was the embarkation process with Tradewind Voyages?
The embarkation process was extremely smooth, this is of course helped by the fact that Golden Horizon only holds a maximum of 272 passengers, however from arriving at the port of Portland to walking up the gangway took less than 45 minutes. Apart from the usual check-in and security checks, we also had to undergo Covid-19 lateral flow testing before being allowed onboard. The port of Portland may not be used to catering for large numbers of cruise ship passengers, none the less the experience was very efficient.
Tell us about the accommodation on Golden Horizon
My home away from home for the two-night cruise was a very spacious Porthole cabin located on Marina deck. As well as my double bed (which could convert to two twins if needed), the cabin also included a sofa and two portholes offering sea views and making the whole room feel bright and accommodating. There was plenty of storage space and the bathroom had a very luxurious feel to it.
You won’t find any interior cabins on this vessel, so whilst touring the ship I had a sneak peek around the Deluxe Balcony cabins, the layout is very similar to the porthole cabins but with a little more room and the addition of a small balcony area. The sofa in these cabins convert to a bed to accommodate additional guests if needed with a curtain to separate it from the main bed giving added privacy. The balcony itself is compact but does have space for two chairs and a table, perfect for your morning coffee or a pre-dinner drink from a minibar which the porthole cabins do not benefit from.
The Owners Suites onboard are very impressive with a large living room including a sofa bed for additional guests. These are ideal for larger families or groups as you can connect two suite cabins to accommodate up to 8 guests. They feature a walk-in wardrobe area with ample storage, a complimentary mini-bar and daily canapes. The beautiful master bedroom area even has its own bathroom with jacuzzi bath and separate shower. The cabin also has a private balcony for you to relax on.
How did you find the ship in general?
As the world’s largest square-rigged sailing ship, Golden Horizon is very different from your usual cruise ship experience and really does provide you with the wow factor from the moment you step onboard.
Located by the main pool, the top deck bar is perched under the masts and sails, this is the perfect place to enjoy a drink in the sun or meet up with friends before dinner. There are plenty of deck chairs on which to relax on or you can also head to my favourite spot and chill out by the dive pool at the aft of the ship watching the ship sail away into the sunset.
Heading indoors the public areas are equally impressive, offering a truly luxurious feel without being over the top, with unique features such as the skylight in the main dining room which is actually located underneath the swimming pool. The conference room at the aft of the ship will host special events and guest lectures, although those looking to host their own small get together can also look to hire this space whilst onboard.
What was the food like on Golden Horizon?
The food in the main dining room was excellent with plenty of choices. The lobster roll starter was a particular highlight, and all the desserts were fantastic, and yes, I did manage to sample them all…
You’ll also be able to dine al fresco at the Horizon Grill which is located on the Main deck, this offers a more casual dining experience, perfect for lunch in the sun or even dinner if you prefer. If the weather isn’t so pleasant this area can be enclosed so you can still dine here whilst being protected from the elements.
What is the entertainment like on Golden Horizon?
Due to its size entertainment onboard Golden Horizon is limited, however you’ll find a pianist playing every night in the dining room and lounge area. For our sailing we also had a guitarist and singer to entertain us late into the night by the Horizon bar, perfect for a post-dinner drink and dance as the sunset over the horizon.
Does Golden Horizon offer any fitness & recreational facilities?
Golden Horizon may be smaller than your usual cruise ship, however, the gym onboard is well kitted out with running, cycling and weightlifting machines, very impressive considering the size of the ship.
One of the highlights of the Tradewind Voyages experience are the watersports and activities they have to offer onboard Golden Horizon. The dive pool is perfect for those looking to try out something new and learn the ropes under expert tuition. Diving will be available for anyone 11 years or older and starter sessions are available from £45 which is very reasonable. Those looking to advance their diving expertise will also be able to undertake PADI certification courses which are also reasonably priced. Unfortunately, as we were sailing the English channel we understandably did not get to experience the marina on this sailing, but I can tell it will be one of the stand out features of the ship, dropping down at the aft to sit just above the waterline. From there you’ll be able to experience a vast selection of water sports such as snorkelling, sailing, paddle boarding and windsurfing to name but a few.
For those looking to relax the onboard spa features a sauna, steam room, hot tub and even a snow room, these are all included within the cost of the cruise. You can of course also book in for a massage or other treatments at an additional cost should you wish to.
Any tips for someone looking to cruise on Golden Horizon?
Check your insurance before you set sail! If you wish to take part in any of the water sports or diving you will need to ensure you are covered for these activities before you travel as additional insurance cannot be purchased on board.
Final thoughts on Golden Horizon
Overall, I was very impressed with the ship and what it had to offer. It is perfect for customers who have a sailing background, those with a keen interest in water sports, or simply someone looking for an alternative cruising experience on board a smaller ship.
Sailing onboard was a truly unique experience and the moment the engines are turned off and the sails are raised for the first time is one you will not easily forget. In an age where we are constantly striving to reduce our carbon footprint as much as possible, knowing that you are travelling by wind power alone is a very satisfying and peaceful experience.
I can only imagine how incredible the voyages to more exotic destinations such as the Seychelles or the Caribbean will be, lowering the marina and diving into warm turquoise waters straight from the aft of the world’s largest square-rigged sailing ship has to be at the top of your future cruise bucket-list!
