On 4 July 1982, a new chapter began in the history of Poland’s maritime tradition. On that day, the Polish national flag was raised for the first time aboard Dar Młodzieży, the tall ship that has since become a symbol of modern maritime education, national pride, and one of Poland’s greatest ambassadors on the world’s oceans.
It was a deeply symbolic moment. As the flag was lowered for the final time aboard the legendary Dar Pomorza, it was simultaneously raised on her successor. The ship’s godmother was Helena Jurkiewicz, wife of the legendary commander of Dar Pomorza.
The vessel was designed by the renowned Polish naval architect Zygmunt Choreń, widely regarded as one of the world’s greatest designers of sailing ships. He created a vessel that combined the elegance of a classic full-rigged ship with modern technology, producing a tall ship admired wherever she sails.
Just six days after entering service, on 10 July 1982, Dar Młodzieży departed on her maiden international voyage to Rostock. Soon afterwards, she competed in the prestigious Tall Ships’ Races, winning first place and immediately establishing herself among the world’s finest training sailing ships.
The years that followed brought even greater achievements. In 1983, she participated in the historic Osaka World Sail in Japan. Between 1987 and 1988, she completed an extraordinary nine-month circumnavigation of the globe via the three great capes—Cape of Good Hope, Cape Leeuwin and Cape Horn. During the voyage she covered more than 28,000 nautical miles, visiting 17 ports across five continents.
For more than four decades, Dar Młodzieży, operated by the Gdynia Maritime University, has served as a floating academy, training thousands of future merchant navy officers. Life on board teaches seamanship, discipline, teamwork, responsibility and respect for the sea.
Today, Dar Młodzieży continues to represent Poland at the world’s most prestigious tall ships’ races and international maritime festivals, proudly carrying the Polish flag into ports across the globe.
A Star of America’s 250th Anniversary Celebrations
This year, the Polish tall ship was among the highlights of the magnificent Parade of Sail celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States. Millions of spectators lined the shores of New York to admire some of the world’s most beautiful sailing ships.
For the Polish community, however, there was no doubt which vessel stole the show. Proudly flying the white-and-red Polish flag, Dar Młodzieży once again became a powerful ambassador for Poland, attracting admiration from thousands of visitors.
On Her Way Back to Europe – A Stop in Cowes
Following the celebrations in the United States, Dar Młodzieży has begun her return voyage to Europe. One of her scheduled ports of call will be Cowes, on Isle of Wight, one of the world’s most famous sailing centres and a place deeply connected with international yachting history.
Her visit will provide another excellent opportunity to promote Poland, celebrate the country’s rich maritime heritage and bring together the Polish community in the United Kingdom with sailing enthusiasts from around the world.
It is expected to arrive in Great Britain – Isle of Wight in the morning of Sunday, August 9, 2026, and moor at the Trinity Buoy, opposite the Cowes promenade, before noon. It will be open to visitors the following day, August 10.
After 44 years of service, Dar Młodzieży remains not only one of the world’s most beautiful tall ships but also a living symbol of Poland’s maritime tradition, courage and excellence. Wherever she sails, she proudly demonstrates that Poland is a nation with a remarkable seafaring heritage.
Be sure to follow our website:
and social media channels for updates from this special occasion.
Text: Polish Sue
Polish Sue 
Leave a comment