Generał Zaruski sets sail for Spitsbergen! The arctic adventure of a Polish tall ship

The expedition, part of the Gdańsk School Under Sail program, will last 101 days. The crew will cover 5,000 nautical miles, visiting 10 ports and 5 Polish polar stations. Twenty young, passionate, and adult sailing enthusiasts will have the opportunity to join this educational adventure.

- We are extremely proud because Gdańsk is one of the few cities with its own tall ship. Thanks to the tremendous commitment of, among others, the late mayor Paweł Adamowicz and many employees of the Gdańsk Sports Center and the shipyard, "Generał Zaruski" was saved from destruction. Since then, it has served maritime education and character-building, says Aleksandra Dulkiewicz, mayor of Gdańsk. - "The year 2025 is particularly special for us, as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the historic voyage. Participants will spend nearly a month at sea – a time of great learning, character-building, and unforgettable adventure.

A maritime adventure and scientific mission

This year's voyage is not only a tribute to the historic expedition but also a unique educational initiative combining sailing, science, and ecology. As part of the 10th edition of the Gdańsk School Under Sail, participants will gain maritime experience and take part in lectures led by experts, including dr. Tomasz Rożek, a science communicator and founder of the Nauka. To Lubię Foundation.

Scientific research projects are also planned in the Svalbard region in cooperation with the Institute of Oceanology of the Polish Academy of Sciences and the University of Wrocław.

- The Gdańsk School Under Sail project is a unique opportunity for young people to learn teamwork and gain hands-on experience, emphasizes Agnieszka Baranowska, member of the board of the Pomeranian Voivodeship. – Participants will shape their character and personality, learning independence in conditions of limited internet access and modern technologies.

Recruitment and voyage details

Recruitment for the Gdańsk School Under Sail begins on March 5. The cost of a one-month stage is 12,960 PLN, while holders of the Gdańsk Resident Card receive a 30% discount, bringing the cost to 9,969 PLN. The price includes accommodation, meals, and insurance.

The voyage route consists of several stages: from Gdańsk to Longyearbyen (June 30 – July 26), a scientific research expedition by the University of Wrocław (July 28 – August 10), as well as open return legs through Tromsø, Ålesund, Stavanger, and Oslo.

- The School Under Sail is an extraordinary adventure that combines sailing, education, and arctic exploration, says Piotr Królak, project manager. – Participants are not passengers – each becomes a full-fledged crew member, taking part in navigation watches, maneuvers, and daily onboard duties."

The voyage of "Generał Zaruski" to Spitsbergen is one of the most significant events in recent Polish sailing history. It is an opportunity not only to acquire unique skills but also to become an ambassador of maritime Gdańsk on the waters of the arctic.