October 20, 2025
Celebrate the past and sail toward the future aboard a ship that has trained sailors for more than a century, survived two world wars, and now sails the globe powered in part by wind-charged batteries — blending maritime tradition with cutting-edge green technology and real-time ocean research. The Norwegian tall ship Statsraad Lehmkuhl will dock at Pier 66 from October 22-27 as part of the worldwide One Ocean Expedition, offering Seattle a front-row seat to her rich history and green innovation during One Ocean Week festivities. Hosted by Washington Maritime Blue, the week features summits, cultural events, community activities, youth and workforce development programs, and global delegations, all aimed at catalyzing the Blue Economy while advancing climate action, ecosystem health, and equity.
During the One Ocean Expedition, the Statsraad Lehmkuhl is completing a 12-month global voyage, visiting 27 ports across three continents. Several legs are open to the public and no sailing experience is needed. You can even join the crew in Seattle and sail to San Francisco from October 27 to November 3. Join the expedition→
In the meantime, dive into the details of the Statsraad Lehmkuhl.
Over a century of history
Built in 1914, the Lehmkuhl first trained German merchant cadets before becoming a Norwegian training ship in 1921. She went on to survive two world wars and more than a century at sea. At 322 feet, the 111-year-old Statsraad Lehmkuhl remains one of the world’s largest and best-preserved tall ships in year-round operation.
Renovations and innovation keep the ship cutting edge
Despite her age, the Lehmkuhl is one of the greenest tall ships in the world. In 2019, she was upgraded from diesel to hybrid power, a 370-kWh hybrid battery system that stores wind-generated energy to power lights, instruments, and even the galley.
She is also equipped with advanced scientific instruments that continuously collect ocean data — including CO2 levels, environmental DNA (eDNA), microplastics, acidification, and underwater sound — as well as weather and atmospheric conditions measured by sensors in the rigging.
Regular restoration work keeps the tall ship looking her best at 111. Before Statsraad Lehmkuhl set out on the One Ocean Expedition in April, the ship spent nine months in dry dock for extensive renewal. With ongoing TLC while at sea, she continues to stun.
Learning at sea
The Statsraad Lehmkul is primarily a sail training vessel where up to 135 voyage crew actively sail and run the ship alongside the professional crew. Since 1921, she has trained thousands of naval cadets and civilian trainees. Life on board means sleeping in hammocks, working side by side with shipmates, and learning teamwork and resilience at sea.
Students, researchers, and trainees join different legs of the expedition to learn about the ocean, climate science, sail training, and teamwork at sea. During the One Ocean Expedition, most voyage legs are chartered by research and education partners, while others are open to the public through ticket sales, often with a mix of both.
A floating ambassador
Recognized as part of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, the Lehmkuhl carries a mission bigger than herself: raising awareness about the ocean’s role in a sustainable future. In ports, the ship welcomes conferences, diplomatic meetings, and partner events, as well as school visits and open ship events for the public. Her stop in Seattle highlights the Port’s role as a global gateway and partner in advancing sustainable ocean solutions.
A second voyage
This is the ship’s second One Ocean Expedition. The first (2021–2023) was a nearly two-year circumnavigation of the globe with 37 port visits and broad international partner participation.
A star of racing and slow TV
This Norwegian tall ship is both fast and famous. The Lehmkuhl frequently competes in tall ship races, often finishing near the top of her class. In 2021, she starred in a six-week Norwegian “Slow TV” program, where millions tuned in to watch life on board unfold in real time.
Route adjustment
Originally scheduled to sail through the Northwest Passage from Greenland to the West Coast of North America, the One Ocean Expedition had to alter course in August due to heavy ice. To stay on schedule, the ship crossed the Atlantic to Bermuda before continuing to Los Angeles. After Los Angeles, the expedition proceeded to Vancouver before making its way to Seattle. For the latest timings and details, see the sailing route→
At a glance: Statsraad Lehmkuhl
Type: Three-masted barque
Built: 1914 (Johann C. Tecklenborg shipyard, Germany)
Home port: Bergen, Norway
Length: 322 feet
Beam: 41 feet
Draft: 17 feet
Height of main mast: 157 feet
Sail area: 2,026 m² (22 sails)
Speed: Up to 19 knots under sail
Crew capacity: Up to 135 trainees + professional crew
Hybrid power: 370 kWh battery bank charged by wind
Attend the One Ocean Waterfront Festival and Market
Photos courtesy of Statsraad Lehmkuhl
