About us

About the ship

It’s not easy to build an 18th-century ship in full 1:1 scale without the help of any original drawings. It doesn’t make it any easier when solely using the tools, building methods and materials of that time. In addition to that, the ship has to fulfill today’s safety requirements from authorities. However, sometimes, impossible dreams grow wings and take flight. Götheborg of Sweden is today the largest ocean-going wooden sailing ship in the world.

The ship's history

Good stories are worth to be told, particularly the story of Götheborg of Sweden. The Swedish East India Company, one of Sweden’s most successful brands in history, was founded in the year of 1731. The Trade Company traded with China and completed a total of 132 voyages with 37 ships until it ceased in 1813. In 1993 the Swedish East India Company was re-established in order to revive, manage, operate, and develop the art of Swedish shipbuilding and seamanship.

About the company

The ship Götheborg is owned by SOIC and bare boat chartered by Rederi Götheborg AB. SOIC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Greencarrier Group AB. 

Latest news

THE FRIENDS OF THE EAST INDIAMAN GÖTHEBORG INVITE YOU TO A WONDERFUL EVENING 19 MARS 18:00

19 March 2026

During the evening we will be joined by Mats Berggren, who during the construction period represented the Swedish Maritime Administration as a determined and persistent inspector, and Marie-Louise Edholm, who took part in building the rigging, has sailed with the ship, and has been responsible for the maintenance of the rig. You will gain insight into traditional craftsmanship, material choices, and the many challenges involved in combining historical authenticity with modern safety and operational requirements. If you were involved during this period, perhaps you have a story of your own to share. We would love to hear it! About halfway through the lecture, coffee and pastries will be available for purchase. All proceeds will go directly toward the re-rigging of the ship. Registration is free of charge. Please register by emailing: vanner@gotheborg.se A warm welcome! The Friends of East Indiaman Götheborg Association

PLANS FOR THE EAST INDIAMAN GÖTHEBORG TAKE SHAPE – NEW EXPERIENCE CENTER PROPOSED AT MASTHUGGSKAJEN

18 March 2026

PRESS RELEASE 2026-03-18 Plans for the East Indiaman Götheborg take shape – new experience center proposed at Masthuggskajen Following growing interest in the future of the East Indiaman Götheborg, Greencarrier now presents detailed plans for a new permanent quay location and an adjacent experience center at Masthuggskajen in Gothenburg. The ambition is to create a new destination in the city ahead of the 300th anniversary of the Swedish East India Company in 2031. The first vision images are now being presented. An interactive experience center The project includes an interactive experience center directly connected to the ship, where visitors will be able to explore: the history of the East Indiaman Götheborg Gothenburg’s role as a trading city the importance of maritime activity – from the 18th century to today’s global trade and logistics “The East Indiaman Götheborg is a symbol of Gothenburg’s origins as a city of trade and maritime heritage. With this project, we aim both to preserve history and to create something that inspires the future – a place where business, academia and the public can meet,” says Stefan Björk, founder of Greencarrier and initiator of the project. A new destination for the city The proposed location at Masthuggskajen will make the ship more accessible and visible to both residents and international visitors. In connection with the ship and the experience center, plans also include: a restaurant office spaces for businesses within maritime, trade and logistics The project aligns with Gothenburg’s ambition to strengthen its position as an attractive destination and meeting place. The goal is to create a vibrant cultural and knowledge hub that contributes to the city’s development and reinforces its connection to the sea. Timeline linked to the 2031 anniversary The objective is for the experience center to be completed in time for the 300th anniversary of the Swedish East India Company in 2031. The plans have been developed in collaboration with: Rstudio (architects) CoForma (project developer) Ongoing dialogue is taking place with the City of Gothenburg, with Business Region Göteborg as a key partner. “To realize the project on time, we need a decision during the spring. We hope that both citizens and policymakers see the opportunities this project would create for the city, tourism and business,” says Stefan Björk. A long-term investment Greencarrier, owner of the Götheborg since 2021, plans to finance the experience center and continue to manage the ship’s operations and maintenance. The vision is to create an iconic place and a living meeting point for future generations. “The Götheborg belongs to the people of Gothenburg. Together with enthusiasts, companies and the city, an impossible project became reality when the ship was completed in 2003. Since then, it has had a strong international appeal. Now we want to complete the circle and give the Götheborg its natural home port in Gothenburg – making it accessible to all while preserving it for future generations,” says Stefan Björk. Current location Until further notice, the ship remains at Eriksberg and is open to visitors during large parts of the year. For more information Anna Svensson Head of Project Management, Greencarrier 📞 +46 76 529 73 21 ✉ anna.svensson@greencarrier.com Images: Vision images may be used freely in connection with publication. Credit: R-Studio About the East Indiaman Götheborg The original East Indiaman Götheborg was one of the ships of the Swedish East India Company and completed three voyages to China between 1739 and 1745. On its return from the third voyage, the ship ran aground just outside Älvsborg Fortress and sank. Much of the cargo was salvaged, and the entire crew survived. More than 250 years later, in the 1990s, diving expeditions began at the wreck site, and in 1995 construction started on a full-scale reconstruction of the ship, completed in 2003. The replica has since sailed on several international voyages, including to China, Australia, Brazil and across Europe, serving as a platform for international relations and trade. In 2023, Götheborg participated in Gothenburg’s 400th anniversary celebrations. More information: gotheborg.se About the Swedish East India Company (SOIC) Founded in 1731, the Swedish East India Company became one of Sweden’s most successful trading enterprises. During the 18th century, it contributed significantly to the development of Gothenburg and to advances in trade, shipping, shipbuilding, science and infrastructure. Today, Greencarrier revives the company by creating a modern trading platform where contemporary logistics meets historical maritime heritage. More information: soic.se About Greencarrier Group Greencarrier Group is a Swedish family-owned company. Founded in Gothenburg in 2000, the group has grown into seven companies with more than 350 employees and operations in 15 countries. The company provides global logistics and shipping solutions and is also the owner of the Swedish East India Company and the Götheborg. More information: greencarrier.com

Ostindiefararen's Christmas market is here again!

23 October 2025

It's time once again for a Christmas Market on the pier by the ship! For three days, December 5 – 7, from 11:00 to 17:00 – the area will be filled with festive scents, lights, and exhibitors offering unique handicrafts and Christmas gifts, from ceramics and textiles to jewelry and woodwork. At the market, you'll find: Exhibitors with unique Christmas gifts and crafts Activities for children, both onboard and on the pier A chance to explore the ship Götheborg Hot food and drinks to warm you in the winter chill Traditional glögg and other festive treats Live performances by Götheborg’s own shanty choir Bring your family, friends, and colleagues to kick off December with a truly maritime Christmas celebration! Warm welcome! Are you an exhibitor and want to book a table? Fill in this form: https://forms.gle/oXEmXNGNH9KpYRFb6 Would you like to perform or have another great idea that fits the event? Get in touch at bokning@gotheborg.se

Owner and main partner

Greencarrier Group
Greencarrier is a global group offering logistics solutions all over the world, focusing on knowledge, innovation and sustainable solutions. SOIC and Greencarrier share common values and when we start our journey towards a sustainable future with commerce, shipping and logistics as our base, Svenska Ostindiska Companiet is simply our starting point. We like challenges, and our attitude is:
Yes, it's possible!

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