Can sailing ships serve as a sustainable model within tourism and recreation?

Abstract This study explores the potential of sailing ship voyages to serve as a model within sustainable tourism and recreation. As economic, social and environmental impacts of tourism are becoming a worldwide concern, this research focuses on an under-studied sector of maritime tourism. Drawing on qualitative data from expert interviews with professionals in different sailing organizations, the study investigates how the principles of economic, social and environmental sustainability are understood and implemented in sailing operations. For analysing the research data, indicators from a framework for measuring the sustainability of tourism were used.The findings indicate that while many sailing organizations strive towards environmental sustainability with the use of renewable technologies and educational efforts, the environmental performance is limited by the reliance on conventional fuel-based propulsion. Financially, many sailing organizations face challenges in economic self-sufficiency as they depend on external funding, donations and volunteer work. In regards to social sustainability, sailing tourism and recreation offer valuable benefits through youth development and educational experiences.The study concludes that sailing ship voyages can, under specific conditions, contribute to sustainable tourism. Their success in terms of achieving sustainably depends on the integration of sustainability principles, the application of innovations and cooperation among various stakeholders. The study offers recommendations and shows potential areas for further research in order to enhance the sustainability of sailing tourism operations.