Gorch Fock docks in Wilhelmshaven this Friday – viewing possible!

Gorch Fock docks in Wilhelmshaven this Friday – viewing possible!

On August 29, 2025, the Gorch Fock, the famous sailing training ship of the German Navy, will arrive in Wilhelmshaven. Arrival at Bontekai is scheduled for around 11 a.m., with the ship mooring at the dock around half past twelve. This is a special event because the Gorch Fock is considered a true landmark of maritime tradition.

The Gorch Fock, an impressive three-masted barque, was built in 1933 at the renowned Blohm & Voss shipyard in Hamburg and has been a symbol of the training of naval officer candidates ever since. Originally designed for the Reichsmarine, the ship experienced an eventful history, from its sinking in the Second World War to its salvage and subsequent restoration. In 2003 it returned to Germany and was re-established under the original name Gorch Fock after sailing for a few years as Tovarishch under the Soviet and later Ukrainian flag.

A visit that is worth it

Visitors have the opportunity to view the Gorch Fock up close and find out about the training of officer candidates on board. The Gorch Fock will stay at the Bontekai for several days, which is an excellent opportunity for all sea fans and interested parties. The ship's arrival can even be followed live via a webcam on the Wilhelmshaven Touristik & Freizeit GmbH homepage.

The Gorch Fock is not only a training ship, but also an important part of Germany's maritime tradition. Since its commissioning in 1958, over 15,000 cadets from various countries, including officer candidates from Ghana, Colombia and Thailand, have completed their training on this ship. It has visited over 390 ports in almost 60 countries on five continents, traveling more than 760,000 nautical miles, the equivalent of approximately 35 trips around the world.

A symbol of tradition

The sailing training ship, which is impressive with a length of 82.1 meters and a sail area of ​​over 1,700 square meters, not only stands for seafaring tradition, but also for the pride of the German Navy. On May 1, 1945, the Gorch Fock was scuttled by her crew to prevent her from falling into enemy hands. After the war it experienced a remarkable rebirth. This shows how strong the connections are to maritime history and the education of new generations on board.

In Wilhelmshaven, citizens and visitors have the chance to learn something about this fascinating history. Whether young or old, the Gorch Fock captivates everyone and encourages them to experience Germany's maritime culture. Here we not only say goodbye to school, but also take a look into the future - directly from this impressive ship, which has played an important role in the training of naval officers for decades.

Find out more about this impressive journey of the Gorch Fock and let yourself be carried away by the maritime atmosphere in Wilhelmshaven. [Wilhelmshaven.de]. Esut provide deeper insights into the historical and maritime significance of the ship.