
The two-masted schooner was built in 1913 at the Pattje shipyard in Waterhuizen (Netherlands) as a sailing cargo ship named “Hermann”, intended for sailing on the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. Initially, it sailed without an engine.
In later years, the vessel was sold to Denmark, where it was lengthened and renamed “Laksen”. Until the late 1980s, it served as a transport ship in coastal shipping.
In 1989, it was converted into a comfortable charter sailing ship, restoring its original hull dimensions and traditional character. In 1998, it received its current name “Abel Tasman” – in honor of the Dutch explorer who reached Tasmania and New Zealand, among other places, in the 17th century.
In 2024, it underwent a long-awaited refit. On board, it can comfortably accommodate 24 passengers and a crew of 4-6. During day cruises, it can take 60 passengers.
The vessel belongs to a family of three sister ships – all of which have been preserved and are still sailing.