J.R.Tolkien – Classic Charter Tallship for Sale

J.R.Tolkien – A Legendary Tallship for Sale
Classic topsail schooner for sale – licensed for charter, rich in maritime heritage.

J.R.Tolkien – One of the Most Striking Tallships for Sale

If you are searching for exceptional tallships for sale, the J.R.Tolkien is a unique opportunity.

She combines the elegance of a private yacht with the commanding presence of a historic tall ship.

Currently operated as a certified charter vessel in Northern Europe, the J.R.Tolkien is part of a successful charter business for sale – either together with her sister ship Loth Lorien, or individually.

Based in Hamburg and classed in the Netherlands, she offers regular bed and breakfast stays during the winter season and sailing charters in summer. The vessel remains under full classification.

Originally built in 1965 in Eastern Germany as an icebreaking tug named “Dierkow” by the Edgar Andre Wharf in Magdeburg, she served the Bagger-, Bugsier- und Bergungsreederei Rostock.

In 1998, she underwent a complete transformation and was refitted into a topsail schooner – the J.R.Tolkien we know today.

She is now one of the most distinctive and admired classic sailing ships in Northern Europe, operating as a fully licensed sail charter vessel worldwide.

Licensed for sailing trips with up to 36 guests and 8 crew members
Day trips possible for up to 90 guests and 10 crew members

J.R.Tolkien – Historic Charter Tallship for Sale

Status: Available
Price on request
Location: Sport Cityhafen Hamburg Germany
Telephone: 0049 171 4764780
Contact: Contact AdvertiserWebsite:
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Specifications Engine(s)Equipment Salon & Bar Kitchen Honeymoon Suite Cabins

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Specifications – A Rare Opportunity to Own a Legendary Tallship

The J.R.Tolkien is a lovingly restored and continuously maintained two-masted topsail schooner – a vessel that embodies maritime tradition and professional excellence in equal measure. Originally constructed in 1965 and reimagined under the expertise of renowned naval architect Olivier F. van Meer, she has since been meticulously cared for by her owner and builder Jaap van der Rest.

Measuring 42 meters overall with a beam of 7.8 meters, she presents a striking profile under sail, matched by her solid steel displacement hull and white classic finish. With 40 berths, she is ideally suited for exclusive charters, educational voyages, and international tallship events. The onboard systems include a powerful Daewoo V158TI main engine, a full suite of navigation and safety technologies, and large-volume tanks offering extended autonomy at sea.

Fully registered under Dutch shipping inspection and compliant with international charter standards, the J.R.Tolkien offers a rare opportunity: a vessel of heritage and heart, ready for her next chapter under new stewardship. Her technical readiness, aesthetic appeal, and rich history make her one of the finest tallships available on the market today.

Designer:	Olivier F. van Meer Design B.V.
Builder:	Jaap van der Rest
Model:	Two-Masts Top-Sails schooner
Year constructed:	1965
HIN:	9561 Z A 1997
Registration:	Shipping registration Netherlands
Registry:	Dutch schipping Inspection
Berths:	40
No. of engines:	1
Engine model:	Daewoo V158TI
Engine hours:	2807
Fuel type:	Diesel
Drive type:	Shaft drive
Length over all:	42m
Length at waterline:	24m
Beam:	7.80m
Maximum draft:	3.10m
Bridge clearance:	32.50m
Hull material:	Steel
Hull type:	Displacement
Hull colour:	white
Deadrise:	178 Degrees
Keel type:	Other
Dry Weight:	180 metric tons
Fuel capacity:	8000 Litres
Water capacity:	9000 Litres
Holding tank capacity:	2910 Litres

Engine & Power Systems – Reliable Performance When the Wind Sleeps

While the J.R.Tolkien is first and foremost a classic sailing vessel, her technical equipment ensures full manoeuvrability and independence when wind alone is not enough. Whether during docking, tight harbour manoeuvres, or calm sea conditions – the vessel is equipped with reliable and powerful engine systems to complement her sails.

She is powered by a Daewoo main engine delivering 480 HP, providing strong propulsion when needed. For onboard systems and operational stability, the J.R.Tolkien is equipped with two generators: one 50 KVA and an additional 12 KVA unit. A hydraulic bow thruster supports precise movement in ports and during complex navigational turns.

This modern auxiliary setup ensures that the J.R.Tolkien is not only elegant under sail, but also technically prepared for any situation – true to the demands of professional charter operation and international safety standards.

Propulsion Dywoo 480 HP
Generator 50 KVA
Generator 12KVA
Bowtruster Hydraulic

Navigation & Safety – Equipped for Confidence and Command

The J.R.Tolkien is not only a majestic tallship under sail, but also a vessel built for professional charter service at the highest safety standards. Her technical and safety equipment reflects a deep commitment to passenger protection, operational reliability, and full navigational control – even under challenging conditions.

The navigation bridge is equipped with a comprehensive suite of maritime technology: autopilot, GPS, radar, electronic chart system, and AIS provide the captain with precise positioning and situational awareness. Communications are ensured through Inmarsat C, multiple VHF and MF/HF radios, and NAVTEX. Dual compasses and electronic steering pumps further support redundancy and safety. A 25 HP console tender provides flexibility for landings or safety operations.

When it comes to safety at sea, no detail is overlooked. The vessel carries over 100 life jackets, including dedicated versions for children and babies, 5 life rafts, emergency suits, line throwers, EPIRB, radar transponder, and fire extinguishers in every critical area. The engine room is protected by an FM-200 fire suppression system, ensuring automatic response in case of incident.

This advanced and well-maintained infrastructure allows the captain to navigate with calm authority, knowing that the ship is prepared for any scenario – from open sea to crowded harbours, from sudden fog to coordinated rescue operations.

Autopilot
GPS
Radar
Electronic Map
Immersat C
2x VHF 1xMF/HF 3xHand VHF
AIS
NAVTEX
Intercom
Console Rib 25 HP
2x Compass
Electronic steering pomps

line throwing device
6x flares
5x emergency suits
106 lifevest
13 lifevest children
3 lifevest baby
5 life rafts
2 MOB-bouy marker
Radar transponder
epirb
fire extinguishers 9
engine room fm-200

Elegant Salon with Bar – Host, Relax or Connect aboard the J.R.Tolkien

Step into the J.R.Tolkien’s elegant salon – a central space that combines classic maritime charm with modern hospitality.

Guests immediately feel at ease, welcomed by warm wood paneling, soft ambient lighting, and carefully selected décor.

This versatile space is perfect for private conversations, business meetings, or simply unwinding with a book and a cup of coffee.

Whether you’re hosting a festive reception, dinner party or a professional gathering, the salon provides a setting of understated luxury.

A fully integrated bar area invites you to enjoy fine drinks – and even features a piano, making this tallship truly one-of-a-kind in the charter world.

Professional Galley – Designed for Culinary Excellence at Sea

The J.R.Tolkien is equipped with a compact yet fully professional galley, purpose-built to meet the high demands of maritime catering. Designed for a crew of 2 to 3 chefs, this space is optimized for efficiency, safety, and performance – even in challenging sea conditions.

From this galley, guests are provided with freshly prepared meals throughout the voyage. Whether it’s breakfast, buffet-style dining, or multi-course dinners, every dish reflects the crew’s dedication to quality and hospitality.

Although the galley itself is not open to guests, it plays a vital role behind the scenes – ensuring that up to 36 guests on overnight cruises and up to 90 on day trips enjoy an exceptional culinary experience aboard one of Europe’s most iconic tallships.

The Captain’s Cabin – Exclusive Comfort on a Historic Tallship

Step into the J.R.Tolkien’s Captain’s Cabin – a private retreat that redefines luxury at sea.

This exclusive suite combines elegant design, authentic wood interiors, and clever spatial planning to create a serene and stylish environment unlike any other aboard a tallship.

Natural light pours in through overhead skylights, while finely crafted furnishings and modern amenities offer true comfort on long voyages. Whether used as a honeymoon suite or private quarters, this cabin offers space, privacy, and atmosphere rarely seen on sailing vessels of this class.

Experience timeless charm paired with contemporary comfort – in the heart of a certified charter schooner

Cabin Description J.R.Tolkien

The J.R.Tolkien offers comfortable accommodations for up to 32 guests across a total of 11 cabins. Ten of these are equipped with three berths each, while one cabin features two berths. Every cabin has its own private bathroom with shower and toilet – a rare luxury aboard traditional sailing ships, providing guests with welcome privacy and comfort.

Although compact in size, the cabins are thoughtfully designed and warmly furnished, offering everything needed for a relaxing onboard stay. Perfectly suited for charter operations, they combine practicality with a cozy, maritime atmosphere.

For day cruises, the J.R.Tolkien can accommodate up to 90 guests on deck, while for overnight voyages, she offers berths for 32 guests in permanent cabins.

Layout plan

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Location:

Sport Cityhafen Hamburg Germany

Contact

Jaap van der Rest

Van der Rest Sail Charter

Betriebssitz:

F.E: van der Rest Holding B.V.
Van der Rest Charter B.V., cs
Wijnstraat 213
NL 3311 BV Dordrecht

BTW 8104.29.585 B01
KvK 33227393

Mobil: +49 (0) 171 4764 780

E-Mail:

Contact Invitation

If our presentation of this extraordinary tallship for sale has sparked your interest, we would be delighted to hear from you. Whether you’re considering a purchase, seeking investment opportunities, or simply curious to experience the vessel first-hand – we welcome your enquiry.

A personal viewing or even a trial participation in a charter voyage under real conditions can be arranged by appointment. There is no better way to appreciate the atmosphere, craftsmanship and operational quality of one of the most distinctive tallships for sale in Europe.

We look forward to your message.

J.R.Tolkien – A Legendary Tallship for Sale