The gift that became a national cultural treasure

Sørlandet is not only one of the few remaining full‑rigged ships in the world today, she is also among the most beautiful.

‍As the second‑oldest of Norway’s three great tall ships – the “Great Trio of Norway,” consisting of Sørlandet, Statsraad Lehmkuhl, and Christian Radich – she holds a special place in Norway’s maritime heritage.

The ship was launched in May 1927 in southern Norway, a region with a long and proud tradition of maritime education. From the beginning, Sørlandet played a central role in training young sailors. As a traditional full‑rigged sailing ship, she was ideally suited to introducing young people to seamanship and maritime discipline, opening the door to future professional careers at sea.

For nearly a hundred years, Sørlandet has been a source of pride and identity. She has helped shape young people into responsible adults and taught generations that through effort, cooperation, and perseverance, even the most distant goals can be reached. Many former students look back with joy and gratitude on the formative years they spent on board Sørlandet, and on all that this experience gave them – both as sailors and as individuals.

Today, our ship continues this proud tradition. Sørlandet is still here, bringing joy, learning, and inspiration to women and men, girls and boys  who have the opportunity to sail with her.

The Full‑Rigged Sørlandet’s Friends Association was established to care for and preserve Norway’s unique maritime heritage under sail. By becoming part of our “crew,” you help us look after the ship and ensure that Sørlandet remains fully operational – sailing on and carrying with her knowledge, culture, and proud seafaring traditions.

There are different types of membership:
‍– Individual membership: NOK 400 annually
‍– Youth membership (15–25): NOK 400 annually
‍– Family membership: NOK 750 annually
‍– Company membership: NOK 5,000 annually
‍– Life-long membership: NOK 5,000

Benefits:
– 15% discount on cruises and other events on board Sørlandet
– Access to news and events before the general public
– Free mini-cruise  for all Friends of Sørlandet once a year

Contact the Friends Association, and we will tell you more about how to become a member: venneforeningen@sorlandet.org