Gaff-rigged schooner
J.R. Tolkien
A large steel gaff-rigged schooner with 11 twin cabins, equipped for expeditions in high latitudes.
About the vessel
From an ocean-going tug to an expedition schooner
The vessel was built in 1964 at the Edgar-André-Werft shipyard in Magdeburg, East Germany, and was originally named Dierkow. She began her working life as a diesel-electric seagoing tug.
After changing owners, the vessel was converted first into a two-masted lugger and later into a gaff-rigged schooner with topsails and a new engine.
J.R. Tolkien joined the RUSARC fleet in 2025 and is used for Antarctic expeditions. She accommodates a larger expedition group while retaining an intimate onboard atmosphere.
Vessel profile
Key specifications
The main figures behind the vessel's size, self-sufficiency and life on board.
- Beam
- 7.8 m
- Fuel capacity
- 20,000 L
- Engine power
- 353 hp
- Guests
- Up to 22
Life on board
Accommodation and equipment
The spaces and systems that support the crew and everyday life on an expedition.
- 01
11 twin guest cabins
- 02
Private head and shower in every guest cabin
- 03
Refrigerated storage
- 04
Washing machine and tumble dryer
- 05
Hot water and cabin heating
- 06
Two 220 V diesel generators
- 07
Satellite communications, navigation and safety equipment
- 08
Two tenders for shore landings
Photos
J.R. Tolkien at sea and on board
