Tell Us About Your Company
Since 2000, Bark EUROPA has been crossing the world’s oceans, offering hands-on sailing experiences to adventure seekers. Known as the "Ocean Wanderer," EUROPA follows traditional sailing routes, exploring remote islands, icy polar regions, and vast oceans. Guests, also known as voyage crew, actively participate in sailing the ship, by setting sails, steering, and lookout duty, creating a unique and immersive experience.
Originally built in 1911 as a lightship, EUROPA was transformed into a sail training vessel in 1986. She now combines traditional seamanship with modern safety and comfort. The ship's small group of 40 guests and international crew fosters camaraderie and shared discovery, making every voyage unforgettable. With a commitment to sustainability and respect for the oceans, Bark EUROPA raises awareness of marine ecosystems and inspires a deep connection to the natural world. Each journey offers exploration, learning, and adventure in its purest form.
What Are Your Unique Selling Points?
Hands-On Sail Training: Guests are not just passengers, they are voyage crew, fully immersed in sailing the ship. No prior sailing experience is needed, as the crew provides sail training throughout the voyage.
Remote Destinations: Bark EUROPA sails where few ships go, from the icy wilderness of Antarctica to the tranquil islands of the Pacific, offering unparalleled exploration opportunities.
Historic Ship with Modern Comforts: Built in 1911, EUROPA blends traditional maritime heritage with cozy cabins and living spaces such as the lounge, deckhouse, library and poker corner. Guests enjoy an authentic sailing experience in a safe, welcoming environment, close to nature.
Small Community Atmosphere: With a maximum of 40 guests on board, EUROPA fosters a family-like environment, encouraging teamwork and connections that last long after the voyage.
Commitment to Sustainability: EUROPA aims to raise awareness of the oceans we sail, collaborating with researchers and promoting slow, conscious travel.
Photo credits @Bark Europa, various photographers:
What Is Your Most Popular Itinerary/Destination?
Every southern summer, Bark EUROPA sets sail for Antarctica, offering a true expedition to the edge of the world. The journey begins in Ushuaia, where guests board the ship and embark on a legendary crossing of the Drake Passage. Here, you become part of the voyage crew, steering the ship, setting sails, and standing on watch under the guidance of the permanent crew.
Reaching the Antarctic Peninsula, you are greeted by towering glaciers, endless ice fields, and the rich sound and smell of bustling wildlife. Daily zodiac excursions take you ashore to explore penguin rookeries, encounter seals, and observe whales gliding through icy waters. You will visit historic sites and feel the spirit of early explorers who once ventured into this untamed wilderness.
Antarctica is more than a destination, it’s an experience of camaraderie, adventure, and the overwhelming beauty of nature, leaving you with memories to last a lifetime.
What is new for 2025/26?
The 2025/26 season brings exciting additions to Bark EUROPA’s voyages. For the first time, EUROPA will sail to Namibia as part of the “Penguin to Flamingo” voyage. This extraordinary journey starts in Ushuaia, exploring the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia, and Tristan da Cunha, before heading to the vibrant coast of Namibia. Guests will experience diverse ecosystems, from icy landscapes to desert dunes.
Continuing across the Atlantic, EUROPA will visit St. Helena and the Azores, offering rare stops at these remote islands. The season will also include participation in Sail Amsterdam 2025, celebrating the city’s 750th anniversary.
After the Antarctic season of 2025/26, Bark EUROPA will venture to the United States in 2026, with planned stops in New York City and Boston. These exciting additions expand the ship’s horizons, bringing new adventures to life while continuing the tradition of true ocean exploration.
Meet the team:
Leentje Toering
Director
Nationality: Dutch
Based between Ushuaia and Friesland, Leentje oversees operations and manages local logistics in Ushuaia during the Antarctic season. Her work keeps the connection strong between the ship and the office.
Region: Global, Netherlands, Argentina
Contact: ltoering@barkeuropa.com
Nina Jolink
General Manager & Science Coordinator
Nationality: Dutch
Operating from the Netherlands, Nina leads the office operations, research initiatives and manages the ship’s finances, supporting EUROPA’s commitment to science and sustainability.
Region: Science onboard, finances, office operations
Contact: nina@barkeuropa.com
Pilou Ronchetti
Sales & Merchandise
Nationality: Dutch
Pilou is the point of contact for bookings and merchandise, making it easy for adventurers to reserve their spots. Her passion for tall ships drives her enthusiasm for helping guests embark on life-changing voyages.
Region: Sales and event coordination
Contact: pilou@barkeuropa.com and info@barkeuropa.com
Lucky Harthoorn
Marketing & Sales
Nationality: Dutch
Lucky shares EUROPA’s stories through marketing, captivating audiences with tales of adventure and life aboard the ship.
Region: Marketing and sales
Contact: marketing@barkeuropa.com
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