The Great Ships Season 1 Episode 18 The Windjammers

The Great Ships is an exciting documentary series that chronicles the history of the world's most legendary sea vessels. In season 1 episode 18, titled The Windjammers, viewers are taken on a journey through the golden age of sailing, when giant 4-masted schooners ruled the sea.

The episode begins by introducing us to the Windjammers, the largest sailing ships of the early 20th century. These massive vessels were used to transport lumber, coal, and other bulk cargo across the world's oceans. The Windjammers were an integral part of the global economy and were responsible for bringing raw materials to factories and ports to be transformed into finished products.

We learn about the history of the Windjammers, how they evolved from smaller 2-masted schooners into massive 4-masted beasts that could carry up to 6,000 tons of cargo. We hear about the legendary Captain Gustav Erikson, who owned and operated the world's largest and most successful Windjammer fleet during this period.

As we delve deeper, we learn about the social and economic implications of the Windjammers. We hear how the harsh conditions onboard these massive ships left seamen suffering under brutal working conditions, with long hours and frequent accidents causing injury and death. Despite this, many seamen coveted a place on these magnificent vessels, as it was seen as a valuable and prestigious occupation.

The episode dives into the technical details of the Windjammers, explaining how their towering masts and giant sails were constructed to survive the brutal storms of the open sea. We also witness the Windjammers in action, as crews maneuver these massive ships with skill and precision through stormy waters to deliver their precious cargoes on time.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning visuals of the Windjammers in their prime, with expertly restored images showcasing the majesty of these mighty ships. We learn about their routes and destinations, from the Baltic Sea to Australia's wheat fields, from the Pacific to the Atlantic.

The Windjammers also played a significant role in World War I, as they were used to transport troops and supplies across the Atlantic to the European front. Although they were vulnerable to attack from submarines, the Windjammer crews demonstrated remarkable courage and resilience in the face of danger, ensuring that the flow of supplies continued despite the threat of attack.

In the end, The Windjammers is an enthralling exploration of a fascinating period in maritime history. This episode of The Great Ships captures the majesty of these huge vessels, while also highlighting the human stories behind them. It's a gripping tale of adventure, hardship, and romance on the open sea, and a must-see for anyone interested in the rich history of sea travel.