We provide professional tall ship delivery by experienced crews who operate and maintain traditional sailing vessels themselves.
From coastal repositioning to offshore and transocean passages, we carefully plan each delivery to suit the vessel, weather and crew.
Why Tall Ship Delivery Is Different
Tall ship delivery demands specialised crew, unique skills and extensive logistical experience. Here’s how we approach it:
Qualified & Verified Crew
Masters, mates, boatswains, mechanics and electricians are assigned based on the vessel’s rig, passage and route. Each crew member brings real-world experience on traditional sailing vessels. This combination ensures a high level of capability and teamwork throughout the voyage.
Tall Ship Experience
Our crew have hands-on experience operating square-rigged and traditional sailing vessels, with knowledge of sail handling, watch systems and vessel behaviour under varying conditions. Tall ship delivery requires different skills to modern yacht delivery, and we match specialists to each ship. This deep experience enhances safety and efficiency at sea.
Proper Care Throughout the Voyage
Traditional vessels demand ongoing care of rigging, sails, hull and onboard systems beyond simple navigation. We monitor and maintain every physical aspect of the ship during the passage. This approach minimises unexpected technical issues and preserves the integrity of the vessel through the entire relocation
Global Reach & Complex Logistics
We operate internationally with the capability to relocate tall ships across Europe, offshore waters and intercontinental routes. This includes logistical planning for long passages as well as coordination with ports and local authorities. Our reach supports everything from short repositioning moves to full global deliveries.
Tall Ship Expertise – UK & Ireland
Delivery operations in the UK and Ireland are coordinated by Captain Shane McCarthy, owner and master of the traditional tall ship PHOENIX. With decades of experience navigating square-rigged vessels, Shane brings real-world expertise in sail handling, crew management and complex relocation logistics — including trans-continental movements for film productions and maritime events.
Interested in gaining experience on tall ships?
Some tall ship deliveries can include opportunities for experienced sailors to gain sea miles and practical experience on traditional vessels.
This appeals to qualified sailors working towards professional qualifications or those wishing to deepen their seamanship skills.
Mention your interest in miles building when you request a quote — we’ll assess whether it can be accommodated on your planned voyage.
Learn more about our Miles Building Opportunities.
Expert Navigation and Maintenance
Our professional crew specializes in such a niche industry as the relocation of sailing ships. They meticulously prepare the sailing vessel for its journey and carefully plan every part of the voyage, from navigation and weather monitoring to maintenance checks. This ensures the safe and efficient transit of your vessel, minimizing delays and technical problems.
By getting to know your ship before it leaves the port, we assign appropriately qualified crew for this work. Typically, such a ship also needs a mechanic, a boatswain, and often an electrician. Crew requirements should also be included in the documents of your sailing ship and in the Insurance Policy.
If you tell us about the weakest elements of your ship, we will be prepared for various “technical surprises”. If you hide them, we will find them ourselves
How Tall Ship Delivery is Planned and Prepared
Relocating a tall ship requires thorough planning well before departure. It’s not just navigation — it’s understanding the vessel, the route, the weather and the crew’s strengths.
Planning the voyage
We prepare each delivery carefully, selecting weather windows, safe stopovers and a route that maximises efficiency and safety. Every tall ship has its own characteristics — our planning reflects that.
Crew Composition
The crew is selected based on vessel type, rigging and route requirements. This usually includes a master, mates, boatswain and technical support where needed, ensuring the team fits the ship’s demands.
Technical preparation
Before departure we go through a pre-departure check of rigging, sails, hull and onboard systems to ensure readiness for the passage. Problems spotted early can be fixed in port rather than at sea.
Owner Communication
We keep owners informed during planning and voyage, so nothing is a surprise. Updates, decisions and necessary changes are always communicated clearly.
Managing a mixed fleet? We also handle logistics for private vessels. View all Yacht Transport Solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tall Ship Delivery
Here are common questions owners and organisers ask about relocating traditional sailing vessels.
Your questions answered about planning, crew, safety and documentation for tall ship delivery.
How are tall ships maintained during long voyages?
During long voyages, tall ships are maintained by a skilled crew who perform regular checks and repairs on the sails, rigging, and hull to ensure the vessel remains seaworthy.
What types of tall ships do you deliver?
Square-rigged vessels, traditional sailing ships, training ships and large classic yachts.
How is crew selected for a tall ship delivery?
Crew composition depends on rig, voyage length and insurance requirements. Typically this includes master, mates, boatswain and technical specialists.
Can tall ship delivery include participation for crew training or mile building?
Yes, in some cases tall ship deliveries can accommodate experienced sailors who want to build miles or gain experience. This depends on route, voyage complexity and insurance requirements. Please mention your interest when enquiring so we can assess feasibility.
What documentation and legal requirements are needed for tall ship relocation?
Tall ship relocation requires compliance with international maritime regulations, port entry rules and customs. Before delivery we review required documentation such as vessel registration, flag state requirements and any specific certificates needed for the planned route. Our team will support you with this coordination.
What safety measures are in place during tall ship delivery?
Tall ship deliveries follow internationally accepted safety standards. Our crew conducts checks before departure and continuously monitors conditions at sea, including weather, rigging loads and watch rotations, to maintain safety throughout the voyage.
Who is responsible for the vessel during delivery?
During the delivery, the master (lead skipper) holds operational responsibility for navigation and safety. Owners retain legal ownership, and the delivery is governed by a contract outlining roles, liabilities and reporting.
What happens if weather or technical issues interrupt the voyage?
Safety takes priority. The skipper may alter the route, seek shelter or delay departure. Any significant changes are communicated to the owner and logged in the delivery report.
Is the delivery documented for insurers and authorities?
Yes. Each delivery is governed by a written contract and accompanied by a detailed delivery report, which can be provided to insurers or flag state authorities if required. This documentation supports liability and compliance.
Can tall ship delivery be combined with crew training or sea miles building?
In some cases, experienced sailors can join a delivery to build sea miles or gain practical experience on traditional rigs. This must be agreed in advance, as it affects crew composition, insurance and safety planning.
What logistics and costs should I expect for a tall ship relocation?
Costs depend on route length, duration, crew size and vessel requirements. Key logistics include fuel, port fees, travel arrangements and insurance. We provide transparent estimates before confirming the delivery details in the contract.
Planning a Tall Ship Relocation?
Contact us to discuss route, crew and delivery requirements for your vessel.