Permanent home planned for the iconic ship Götheborg of Sweden
Greencarrier and the City of Gothenburg have agreed on an ambition to create a long-term home for the Götheborg of Sweden at Masthuggskajen in central Gothenburg. The aim is for the ship to play a central role in a new historical visitor centre, due to open in 2031, and to help create a more vibrant waterfront area near the square and transport hub Järntorget.
For decades, the Götheborg of Sweden has been a powerful symbol of Gothenburg’s history as a city of trade and shipping. With an agreed permanent location — between Stena Line’s current Denmark terminal and the peninsula now being developed off Järntorget — the story of Gothenburg’s maritime past is set to be preserved and presented more prominently.
Greencarrier plans to develop the site as a visitor destination combined with the company’s new headquarters, along with additional office space available for lease. This solution is intended to secure the maintenance and public accessibility of the ship long-term. At the same time, it presents the ship’s history, voyages and significance for Gothenburg to new generations in an attractive and engaging way.
“Götheborg of Sweden has played an important role in Gothenburg’s history, both through the original vessel and again in modern times. I am pleased that we have found a solution that allows us to take care of and make accessible this invaluable part of our cultural heritage, for both residents and visitors,” says Jonas Attenius, chair of the municipal executive board.
Aim to create an iconic destination
The ship has been owned and maintained by Greencarrier since 2021, with private funding invested in the project. The destination will also be run privately and is intended as a long-term venture. The city plans to sell the land at market value.
Under the current timeline, planning work will begin immediately, with Greencarrier expected to gain access to the site in 2028. Part of the land alongside the quay is currently used by Stena Line, which plans to relocate its operations to Arendal, where the Port of Gothenburg is located. Separate discussions are under way between the companies.
“This agreement allows us to take the next step in giving the Götheborg East Indiaman a permanent home in Gothenburg. Our ambition is to create an iconic destination and a lively meeting place for future generations, while helping to strengthen the city’s role as a centre of trade and shipping,” says Stefan Björk, owner of Greencarrier and the ship.
An important part of Gothenburg's history
Studies carried out as part of the project suggest that the planned visitor centre built around the ship could generate significant tourism-related economic benefits for Gothenburg. Estimates indicate an impact of up to SEK 300 million (approximately EUR 30 million) a year once the destination is established.
The replica Götheborg of Sweden reflects the considerable importance of the Swedish East India Company to trade, industry and the city’s development — not least through donations that helped lay the foundations for institutions such as Sahlgrenska University Hospital and Chalmers University of Technology.
“We have worked with the Götheborg of Sweden almost since the idea of rebuilding the ship was first conceived. We know the value it holds for Gothenburg,” says Patrik Andersson, CEO of Business Region Göteborg.
“Strengthening this historical narrative in the heart of the city will benefit businesses, the visitor economy and residents alike. I cannot imagine a better permanent solution than the one now agreed upon.”
The initial agreement between the city and Greencarrier commits the City of Gothenburg to supporting the swift progress of all stages of the project. While the declaration of intent is not legally binding, it marks the start of the formal process.
Further decisions by the city are required before the project can proceed. The next step will be Greencarrier’s application later this spring for a new or amended local development plan.
About the Götheborg of Sweden
The Götheborg of Sweden was one of the Swedish East India Company’s trading ships and completed three voyages to China between 1739 and 1745. On its return from the third journey, the ship ran aground just outside Älvsborg Fortress at the entrance to Gothenburg harbour and sank. Much of the cargo was salvaged and the entire crew survived.
More than 250 years later, diving expeditions began at the wreck site in the 1990s. Construction of a full-scale reconstruction started in 1995 and was completed in 2003. Since then, the replica has sailed on several long-distance voyages — including to China, Australia, Brazil and around Europe — and has served as a platform for international relations and trade. In 2023, the vessel took part in Gothenburg’s 400th anniversary celebrations, opening the programme with a ceremonial gun salute.
For more information, visit gotheborg.se
About the Swedish East India Company (SOIC)
The Swedish East India Company was founded in 1731 and became one of Sweden’s most successful trading enterprises. During the 18th century, it contributed to Gothenburg’s development and to national progress in trade, shipping, shipbuilding, science and infrastructure.
Today, Greencarrier has revived the company, creating a modern form of trading enterprise that combines contemporary commerce with historical maritime traditions. Through its ownership of SOIC and the Götheborg of Sweden, a central part of Sweden’s maritime heritage is preserved and developed, while opening up new opportunities for future global trade.
For more information, visit soic.se
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