Here begins the next part of this unique Pacific adventure. This part of the journey is magical in its own way. We immediately embark from the mysterious Easter Island with its impressive history shown by the Moai statues, on to Tahiti with a few visits to the pristine islands of Pitcairn and Gambier Island along the way. Between these visits the crew will teach you the ins and outs of sailing on board Bark EUROPA, and on this endless ocean, Bark EUROPA is in its element. Hoist the sails, climb high in the mast, and set course towards the next island on the horizon. Enjoy this wonderful adventure and experience the mighty Pacific Ocean in this traditional way.
Departure from Easter Island
We embark on our 45-day expedition from Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui, a small remote island located in the south eastern Pacific Ocean. The island is famous for its mysterious and awe-inspiring Moai statues, which are giant stone carvings of head-and-torso figures that were created by the first settlers of the island. These statues, which are about 4 meters tall and weigh approximately 14 tons each, reflect the history of the dramatic rise and fall of the most isolated Polynesian culture. After embarkation, we set sail west towards Pitcairn, Gambier Island, Marquesas and eventually, Tahiti. If you wish to explore Easter Island more we recommend flying in a few days prior to embarkation.
Ocean sailing
An ocean crossing on board Bark EUROPA is an experience that is difficult for most people to envision. Weeks aboard a ship, cut off from civilization and internet access. On board, people from all over the world, of different ages and with different life stories, come together and work as one team to keep the ship sailing. It is exactly this, that makes an ocean voyage a life-changing experience. As you settle into the rhythms of life at sea, you will be surprised at how quickly you detach from the world of social media.
Being on board EUROPA, without access to the internet or phone service, will offer you a unique opportunity to disconnect from the chaos of everyday life. This experience provides the chance to connect with crewmates, yourself, and the present moment in a profound way. Without the convenience of Google, you will turn to books and your fellow crewmates for information, exposing you to a wide range of knowledge on diverse topics. The absence of modern technology may lead you to discover a deeper sense of self, true happiness, or simply a chance to unwind and relax.
Pitcairn Islands
After sailing more than 10 days on the mighty Pacific Ocean the first sightings of Pitcairn Island can be made. As soon as the people on Pitcairn have sighted EUROPA, they will ring the bells all over the island to let the approximately 50 inhabitants know that visitors are coming.
Not many people come to visit and EUROPA’s visit will be as special for you as for the people living on Pitcairn. Be sure to see the model carvings they make of their great ancestors ship the HMAV Bounty when you walk underneath the impressive tree covered gravel roads on the island.
The beaches are of black sand and rocks between the many shells. On some parts of the island, you will be able to see the ancient paintings on the rock walls made by the first settlers some 700 years before the Bounty mutineers arrived.
Not only is this Island special because of its unique history it also has some very special animal inhabitants. Between 1937 and 1951, five Galápagos giant tortoises were introduced to Pitcairn. Turpen, also known as Mr. T, is the sole survivor. Turpen usually lives at Tedside by Western Harbour.
The birds of Pitcairn fall into several groups. These include seabirds, wading birds and a small number of resident land-bird species. Birds breeding on Pitcairn include the fairy tern, common noddy and red-tailed tropicbird. A small population of humpback whales annually migrate to the islands to winter and breed. The untouched reefs around the island are home to uncountable fish in many shapes and colors that swim through crystal clear water and feed their young among the colorful and impressive coral. Pitcairn also has some plants that are native to the island and grow nowhere else on our planet. You can visit a nursery that is propagating Pitcairn’s native plants to save them from extinction.
Mangareva
A small dot on the horizon will be the first announcement of the next part of your voyage. The tiny dot will slowly grow into an impressive and proud mountain, here so far away from everything and everyone, surrounded by countless miles of ocean lays Mangareva. Standing on Bark EUROPA's decks, looking at this remarkable, green mountain you will understand why the original Polynesian explorers named the island Mangareva, 'the floating mountain'. Polynesian mythology tells many stories, one of them tells the story of Mangareva being hauled from the ocean floor by the demigod Maui. He created the Island and tied the sun down with strands of hair to provide long enough days for the people to fish and work in the light of the sun. When you see the bright sunlight touching the tall rugged mountain peak of this island you can only feel wonder in excitement and maybe thank the divine Maui for hauling this beautiful island from the bottom of the sea for you to explore.
The breathtaking lagoon, surrounding the entire archipelago, will be one of the most beautiful waters you will ever swim in. Both transparent and sandy, turquoise and dotted with coral heads, it displays a range of blues marvelously contrasting with the surrounding lush green mountains.
The Gambier archipelago is well off the beaten track. Sailors visiting this area will feel a sense of privilege as they’re greeted warmly by locals. The islands are still secluded and offer natural and cultural treasures, a visit to a black pearl farm is possible as is climbing the highest mountain in the island chain, it will take you about 90 min and the views across the entire archipelago are stunning.
There are no cafés or restaurants on the island, there are also no ATM's or banks so bringing some French Polynesian Francs is advisable as the locals only take cash. The islanders speak French or Tahitian, very few speak English. Approximately 1300 people live on the Gambier Islands and most of them live on Mangareva, in her capital Rikitea.
Marquesas
The volcanic Marquesas Island group is situated in the northernmost part of French Polynesia. One of the islands is Hiva Oa, also known as the Garden of the Marquesas. Both Jacques Brel and Paul Gauguin spent their final days here and were laid to rest overlooking the ocean.
In 2023, the Marquesas were added to the UNESCO World Heritage list. With its blue sea, black volcanic sandy beaches, steep cliffs, rock formations, and deep canyons, it forms a unique landscape. The Marquesas often experience significant swells caused by the ocean depths surrounding the islands. The largest island, Nuku Hiva, was formed from two interlocking calderas. This island served as a residence for the writer Herman Melville, author of Moby Dick.
For centuries, the inhabitants of the Marquesas have lived off fishing, collecting shellfish, bird hunting and gardening. While they were heavily reliant on breadfruit for a long time, they also cultivate at least 32 other introduced crops. Maohi traditions remain prominent, with specific dances, intricate artistic tattoos, and striking sculptures.
The captain will consult the local conditions and weather charts to determine the most ideal route for visiting parts of the islands.
Tahiti
After approximately one week of sailing, we reach a place that is most consistently called with one word: Paradise. It is not hard to see why. It is maybe the most complete way to describe these wonderful islands in the South Pacific. The lush rain forests, the white beaches, the countless waterfalls, the untouched mountains covered in rain forest. The people and their warm welcoming customs, their traditional dances and crafts. The color of the water, the color of the fish in the reefs, the song of the birds, the lakes and lagoons. All of Tahiti is paradise on earth, and it will be yours to explore.
This French Polynesian island in the South Pacific Ocean is part of the Society Islands archipelago. Visitors to Tahiti can indulge in a variety of activities, such as snorkeling, diving, surfing, hiking, and exploring the island's stunning waterfalls and natural wonders. The island is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants that offer traditional Polynesian cuisine, as well as international options. Tahiti is a destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and endless adventure, the perfect end to our unforgettable experience.
Become a sailor on board Bark EUROPA
On board Bark EUROPA, guests are referred to as voyage crew, and the ship's permanent crew will provide training to transform them into sailors. Even if you have no prior experience, the crew will teach you everything you need to know throughout the journey. Unlike a traditional cruise, Bark Europa offers a hands-on sailing experience, where you actively participate in sailing activities. The voyage crew is divided into three groups or watches, named after the colors of the Dutch flag - red, white, and blue. Each watch will take turns being on duty for four hours, followed by eight hours of free time.
While on watch, the voyage crew will be given different tasks to perform, which will be divided among the members of their watch. Two individuals will be responsible for helm duty, and the crew will guide them on steering the ship, maintaining course, and staying alert for potential hazards. There will also be two people assigned to lookout duty to spot any other ships, debris, or wildlife, and communicate with the officer of the watch.
The remaining members of the watch will be tasked with deck duty. The permanent crew will provide training on sail handling, and you will assist in setting up and taking down the sails by hauling and easing lines. You may also climb the rigging to furl or unfurl the sails and learn how to trim the sails to the direction of the wind. During deck duty, there will be opportunities to help the crew with maintenance tasks and learn traditional skills such as woodworking, sail making, celestial navigation, and traditional rope and rigging work.
During the eight hours off watch, voyage crew members can take advantage of the downtime to rest or enjoy the scenery. The library is available for quiet reading or writing in your logbook, and the deckhouse offers opportunities to socialize with fellow crewmates over a drink, board game, or card game. The crew will also provide lectures on various topics, ranging from traditional sailor skills and knowledge to science and astronomy.
Even during the off-watch time, voyage crew members can still assist the permanent crew and their watchmates with sail handling and maintenance jobs. If needed, the galley team may also ask for help with preparing meals. Your off-watch time is for you to fill in, you may do as little or as much as you like.
How to book
For a seamless booking process, please have a look at our FAQ for more information about booking multiple voyages, health requirements and other essential details.