THE captain of a replica 18th-century Russian frigate attempting to chart a course through diplomatically-charged waters is hopeful that the ship might be able to visit the Island later this year – despite a previous request being refused.
Vladimir Martus told the JEP that there could be “a great opportunity for a stopover” in the first week of September.
Built in St Petersburg in 1999, the ship takes after Peter the Great’s flagship frigate that formed part of Russia’s Baltic navy in the 18th century.
The replica, which changed its flag and received registration in the Cook Islands last year, has faced continued disruption to its sailing programme in the wake of European sanctions imposed following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
It was recently denied entry to a number of French ports, including St Malo.
Mr Martus said that, despite leaving Russia in 2009 – and not having returned since – Shtandart had been subjected to a “bullying campaign” with accusations of being “‘pro-Russian’ propaganda”, which he described as “100% unjust”.
He added that he is half Russian, half Ukrainian – with family “under direct fire” in Ukraine – and was not promoting “these awful actions of the country I lived [in] before 2009”.
“My dream was to share the beauty of sailing, the skill of navigation, the traditions of maritime past,” he continued.
“Instead, we are forced to stay at anchor away from ports for almost a year now.”
Last month, Harbourmaster Captain Bill Sadler told the JEP that Ports of Jersey had been contacted earlier this year by those keeping Shtandart afloat, but did not have “capacity” to support its requested visit.
Commenting on whether he hoped Jersey would be able to accommodate a visit from Shtandart in future, Mr Martus said: “We are looking for a stopover at the end of this season, on the way from Norway to La Rochelle.
“The first week of September looks like a great opportunity for a stopover (if there is a place in the port).
“We could plan several days, for public visits, if that is appropriate.”
A Ports of Jersey spokesperson said that: “We will review any requests nearer to the time.”
