Since her inaugural voyage in 2007, the Pelican of London has traversed the Atlantic Ocean and showcased her competitive spirit in the International Tall Ships Races. As a Class A vessel boasting a length of 45 m and a combined square rig, the Pelican stands out with her unique main-mast barquentine configuration, ensuring efficiency and speed in all conditions. With an experienced, vibrant crew renowned for winning accolades like the Best Crew Parade and the Torbay Cup, the Pelican of London continues to shine brightly in The Tall Ships Races each year.
At sea, the ship is operational 24/7. Trainees are divided into watches, which navigate the vessel in shifts. The crew also organise workshops in navigation, chart management, and route planning. Join the Pelican to experience every aspect of life on board!
Le Pelican, built in 1948 in France, initially served as a fishing trawler in the Arctic. After two decades, it was sold to Norway and renamed Kadett, where it had a dramatic career, including an infamous smuggling episode. In 1995, Retired Commander Graham Neilson acquired the ship and brought it to Portland in Dorset, England.
The vessel underwent 12 years of total reconstruction, and was renamed the Pelican of London. In 2007, the fully restored ship embarked on her maiden voyage, taking trainees to the Caribbean and back. Today, Pelican of London continues to offer Winter and Summer programs across Europe and the Atlantic Ocean.
Up to 28 trainees sleep in spacious four or six berth cabins, most equipped with en suite facilities. Additional separate showers and toilets are also available.
The meals, prepared by the onboard cook, are served in the mess room adjacent to the well-quipped galley. The mess room sits up to 22 people, so when the ship is full, there are two sittings for each meal.
After watch you can relax in “Pelican Roost” – a saloon area, with a small library of books, DVDs and games for you to enjoy with your crewmates.
Shipping type: Main-mast barquentine (Xebec/Polacre)
Homeport: Weymouth, UK
Date built: 1948
Restored: 2007
Capacity: 28
Length: 45 m
Beam: 7m
Draught: 4 m
Sail: 525 m2
Height of mast: 33 m
Engine capacity: 310 PK
Displacement: 355 ton