Crown Princess Elisabeth reportedly set for Atlantic sailing trip during gap year
Crown Princess Elisabeth is expected to undertake a sailing trip across the Atlantic Ocean during a planned gap year following the completion of her studies at Harvard Kennedy School, according to reports by Belgian newspaper Het Nieuwsblad.
The 24-year-old princess is due to complete a Master in Public Policy at Harvard in the coming weeks. According to the newspaper, the Palace declined to comment, but sources said plans for the sailing trip had already been finalised.
The crossing would likely take place from east to west, departing from the Canary Islands and ending in the Caribbean. Late November or December is considered the most suitable period, after the Caribbean hurricane season and during favourable trade winds.
Sailing instructor Piet Smet described the journey as demanding despite the favourable conditions. “It remains an adventure; nature plays with you. It requires character,” he said. “I tell all my friends’ children: do it, it is a great experience, it commands respect.”
According to the report, the crossing can take between eleven days on a racing yacht and more than three weeks on a standard vessel.
Elisabeth’s sailing experience is unclear, although she previously rowed with the Lincoln College Boat Club while studying at University of Oxford and participated in a university running club at Harvard.
The princess is also expected to be accompanied by security personnel and at least one skipper during the voyage.
The reported sabbatical year would delay the start of Elisabeth’s full-time royal duties. King Philippe of Belgium and Queen Mathilde of Belgium are said to favour giving their eldest daughter additional time before she eventually succeeds to the throne.
Crown Princess Elisabeth © PHOTO PATRICK VAN EMSTLN
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