The BLUE CLIPPER

The BLUE CLIPPER – a United Kingdom flagged sail training tall ship

Built in 1991, the Blue Clipper offers students a traditional square-rigged sailing experience combined with comfortable onboard amenities and modern safety systems.

Over the course of the journey, students develop the practical skills required to sail the ship under the guidance of the Captain and professional crew, taking an active role in navigation, sail handling, and daily operations.

The ship features spacious deck areas for outdoor learning and group activities; communal spaces for classes, meetings, and social connection; shared cabin accommodations; and a fully equipped galley (kitchen) with a large dining area to support life at sea.

Blue Clipper 5

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Ship History

1991

Built in 1991 at the Feab Marstrandsverken shipyard in Sweden, the Tall Ship Blue Clipper has a long history of international sailing and experiential learning at sea.

1992

In 1992, the vessel was chartered by the Hennessy brand to recreate the historic voyage of the first cognac shipment from France to Shanghai, commemorating an event that had taken place 120 years earlier.

Spirit of Hennessy

Sailing under the name Spirit of Hennessy, the ship completed the transoceanic journey and later appeared in television programs and commercials, including the Trade Winds series featuring Hugh Johnson. Blue Clipper subsequently spent several years in private ownership, sailing throughout the Mediterranean under the Maltese flag.

2016

In 2016, the vessel entered a new phase when it was acquired by Maybe Sailing and underwent extensive maintenance and restoration work.

2017

The following year, Blue Clipper participated in the 2017 Rendez-Vous Tall Ships Regatta, a transatlantic event celebrating the 150th anniversary of Canadian Confederation. The ship completed more than 10,000 nautical miles, visiting destinations across Europe, the Caribbean, the United States, and Canada, while earning top placements in multiple race legs.

2026

Since then, Blue Clipper has continued to operate as a sail training vessel, including voyages to the Arctic and Caribbean. In 2026, the ship will begin another exciting chapter by joining the Class Afloat fleet, supporting immersive, hands-on education through global sea-based learning experiences.