Golden Horizon Cruise Ship Finds New Future as Swiss Buyer Reportedly Acquires Vessel for €110 Million

Written By: Samadrita Mukherjee

Samadrita Mukherjee

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September 13, 2026 07:50 GMT+5:30

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According to reports from Croatia, the sale of the cruise ship Golden Horizon may be set to change the ship’s future because of a deal to sell the ship for €110 million reached by Croatian shipbuilding company Brodosplit. According to local press reports, the ship’s purchaser is a Swiss shipping company with a fleet comprising about 100 ships, though the identity of the company has yet to be disclosed as per contractual constraints.

This latest development has occurred despite the fact that the cruise ship had already spent many years at a layup in Croatia following its short stint with Tradewind Voyages as part of its operations.

For cruise ship passengers, one question stands out – will the unique sailing cruise ship make it back to the seas with a new approach?

What Happened to the Golden Horizon Cruise Ship?

Golden Horizon was reportedly sold by Brodosplit to an undisclosed Swiss company in a transaction valued at €110 million.

The vessel has a unique history in the cruise sector. It was originally ordered by Star Clippers under the name Flying Clipper, with plans for the ship to join the company’s sailing fleet. The vessel was constructed at Croatia’s Brodosplit Shipyard, one of the country’s largest shipbuilding facilities.

However, the ship was never delivered to Star Clippers. After being renamed Golden Horizon, the vessel entered service briefly with startup cruise company Tradewind Voyages before spending most of the following years inactive in Croatia.

Golden Horizon Sale Details

The reported sale has not yet revealed future sailing plans, but the ownership change represents a significant development for the vessel.

Why This Matters for Cruise Travellers

The possible return of Golden Horizon could provide travellers with access to a rare type of cruise experience.

Modern cruise ships have increasingly moved towards larger vessels offering extensive entertainment, dining and onboard facilities. Golden Horizon represents a different approach, combining traditional sailing aesthetics with contemporary passenger accommodation.

Why Golden Horizon Stands Out Among Cruise Ships

The vessel’s future could appeal to travellers looking for alternatives to large-scale cruising, particularly those interested in maritime heritage, smaller guest numbers and destination-focused journeys.

How Golden Horizon Became One of the Most Unique Sailing Ships

Golden Horizon was one of the most ambitious sailing cruise projects built in recent years.

The vessel was designed as a modern interpretation of classic sailing ships while incorporating features expected by contemporary cruise passengers.

Major Milestones in Golden Horizon’s History

The ship’s journey reflects both the opportunities and challenges involved in operating specialised cruise vessels.

What Could Change After the Reported Sale?

The future operation of Golden Horizon remains unclear because the identity of the buyer and future commercial plans have not been officially disclosed.

However, ownership changes often lead to decisions regarding branding, routes, refurbishment, crew arrangements and market positioning.

Possible Areas of Future Development

• New cruise operator: The ship may enter service under a different brand.
• New itineraries: Future voyages could differ from previous Tradewind Voyages schedules.
• Potential refurbishment: The new owner may review onboard facilities before restarting operations.
• Different passenger markets: The vessel could target new regions or traveller segments.

Until official announcements are made, travellers should consider previous Golden Horizon schedules as historical information only.

What Travellers Should Know Before Booking a Golden Horizon Cruise

At present, no confirmed passenger booking programme has been announced following the reported ownership change.

Cruise travellers interested in experiencing Golden Horizon should monitor official announcements from the future operator before making travel plans.

Before Booking a Future Sailing

The ship’s next chapter will depend on operational decisions made after the reported acquisition.

Why This Matters

The reported Golden Horizon sale highlights broader changes taking place across the cruise industry.

While major cruise brands continue investing in large ships, there remains a market for specialised vessels offering distinctive experiences. Sailing ships, expedition vessels and boutique cruises continue attracting travellers who value exclusivity and unique destinations.

Wider Cruise Industry Impact

• Smaller ships continue finding opportunities among niche traveller groups.
• Historic sailing concepts remain attractive within premium tourism.
• Ship ownership changes can revive inactive vessels.
• Shipyards are seeking new opportunities after financial challenges.

Golden Horizon’s reported transition demonstrates how cruise assets can move between operators and markets while maintaining long-term value.

What Does the Sale Mean for Brodosplit Shipyard?

The reported Golden Horizon transaction is also important for Brodosplit, which has faced financial difficulties and is attempting to stabilise its operations.

Tomislav Debeljak, CEO of DIV Group, Brodosplit’s parent company, said the sale represented a first step towards recovery and rebuilding the shipyard’s future.

Brodosplit Recovery Priorities

The shipyard has stated that its knowledge, infrastructure and workforce remain key assets as it works towards future projects.

What Is Happening With the Janssonius Expedition Ship?

Alongside the Golden Horizon development, Brodosplit is reportedly pursuing plans to continue construction of the Janssonius, an expedition cruise vessel originally ordered by Oceanwide Expeditions.

The ship was planned as a sister vessel to the 2019-built Hondius and was originally expected to enter service in late 2021.

Janssonius Project Overview

Restarting Janssonius construction would represent another important step in Brodosplit’s efforts to restore shipbuilding activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who reportedly bought Golden Horizon?

The buyer is reportedly a Swiss shipping company operating around 100 vessels, but the company has not been publicly identified.

How much was Golden Horizon reportedly sold for?

The reported sale value is €110 million.

Is Golden Horizon currently operating cruises?

No. The ship spent much of the past five years in layup after a short period of operation with Tradewind Voyages.

Will Golden Horizon return to service?

A future cruise schedule has not been officially announced after the reported sale.

What type of cruise ship is Golden Horizon?

Golden Horizon is a modern sailing cruise ship designed for approximately 300 passengers.

Closing Update

The sale of the Golden Horizon cruise ship, announced, is an important milestone for the cruise ship that has received global recognition after being built in Croatia. The ship can be expected to embark on a new era after being sold to Swiss owners.

For the cruise ship travelers, it is important to find out who the buyer is along with the operator and sail date. For Brodosplit, the sale worth $110 million would provide an opportunity to bolster operations as well as rebuild its shipbuilding dreams.