Tradewind Voyages, a new UK-based cruise line, plans to start sailing in May 2021.

The line will initially sail on Golden Horizon, the world’s largest square-rigged sailing vessel. The ship, which will operate under charter, will carry 272 passengers and 159 crew.

Tradewind Voyages will start offering ex-UK voyages from May to August 2021. In total, nine voyages will be offered from the UK with seven departures from Harwich and two from Glasgow. Northern European itineraries will feature Denmark, Iceland, the Norwegian Fjords and the Baltics.

From September 2021, Golden Horizon is scheduled to travel east through the Suez Canal and follow the Maritime Silk Route to Jakarta, and on to Bali.

Voyages in late 2021 and into 2022 will feature Australia, the Indian Ocean, Japan, Alaska, the Americas and the Pacific Islands.

Itineraries will go on sale in September 2020.

Tradewind Voyages CEO Stuart McQuaker (former chief operating officer of Saga Cruises), said: “The team is hugely excited by the opportunity to operate this fabulous ship.

“We are looking forward to her introductory season in the UK and then taking her to some unique parts of the world, on itineraries that are planned to ensure we use the prevailing winds and currents to capitalise on her sailing credentials.”

McQuaker is joined by sales and marketing director Jeremy McKenna (formerly of P&O Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line), head of marketing and distribution Amanda Norey (formerly of Royal Caribbean and Kuoni), and product director Oliver Hammerer (formerly of Carnival UK and Holland America Line).

McKenna added: “We are looking forward to working with our trade partners to give our mutual guests a true sailing experience on board this stunning ship as part of an unforgettable holiday.”

Tradewind Voyages confirmed it was planning to add additional ships to the fleet over the coming years, with the design process underway.