Freewinds

Aruba_-_Freewinds.jpg

History
Name	Freewinds
Owner	Church of Scientology
Operator	Majestic Cruise Lines
Registry	Curaçao
Route	Caribbean
Builder	Wärtsilä Turku Shipyard, Finland
Launched	1968
Completed	1968
Acquired	1986
In service	1986
Homeport	Willemstad, Curaçao
Identification	IMO number: 6810811
Status	Active
General characteristics
Length	134.2 m (440 ft)
Beam	21.6 m (71 ft)
Draught	5.6 m (18 ft)
Propulsion	Diesel-electric
Speed	18 knots
Capacity	540 passengers
Crew	220

Freewinds is a cruise ship operated by Majestic Cruise Lines and owned by the Church of Scientology. The ship is primarily used as a religious retreat and training center for Scientology members. It was built in 1968 by Wärtsilä at their shipyard in Turku, Finland.

History

The ship was originally launched in 1968 and was acquired by the Church of Scientology in 1986. Since then, it has been used for delivering advanced Scientology courses, including the Operating Thetan Level VIII (OT VIII), which is the highest level of auditing available in Scientology.

Facilities

The Freewinds is equipped with various facilities to support its function as a religious retreat. These include course rooms, auditing rooms, a dining area, and accommodations for both passengers and crew. The ship also features a theater and a lounge area.

Operations

The Freewinds operates primarily in the Caribbean and is registered in Curaçao. It serves as a venue for various Scientology events and conventions. The ship's homeport is in Willemstad, Curaçao.

Health and Safety

In 2008, the Freewinds was found to have a significant amount of blue asbestos on board, which led to health concerns. The ship underwent extensive decontamination to remove the asbestos.

See also

• Scientology
• Operating Thetan
• Church of Scientology
• Majestic Cruise Lines