First official day of the La Spezia Regatta

As Italy holds a day of mourning after yesterday’s tragedy off Lampedusa, where hundreds of African migrants lost their lives after their boat caught fire and sank, the ships of the Regatta fleet are flying their ensigns at half mast as a mark of respect. 

Today is the first official day of the La Spezia regatta and the final two vessels are due to arrive in port this morning – Alexander von Humboldt II (Germany) and Santa Maria Manuela (Portugal) – both impressive class A ships which will make wonderful viewing for the many spectators on the quayside.

The last of the fleet to arrive yesterday, around midnight, was local ship Pandora, winner of her class in Race One – Barcelona to Toulon.   

Late into yesterday evening the pontoon around which the whole fleet are berthed, was buzzing with locals and crew members enjoying the festivities.  Many ships will be open to visitors today and throughout the weekend.  

“It’s such a wonderful spectacle – having all the ships berthed around one pontoon is a very unusual occurrence for the tall ship fleet.  It makes for a great atmosphere for the crews and also for the visitors” said Race Director Mike Bowles.  “It is going to be a fantastic finale to the Regatta” added Race Chairman Chris Bickert.

pic: Alexandra von Humboldt II makes her makes her way into port to join the regatta

Full race results can be seen here (provisional results only)

Lycamobile – title sponsor of the Mediterranean Tall Ships Regatta

Gaastra – official clothing supplier to the Mediterranean Tall Ships Regatta

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For more details please contact Pauline Appleby, Media Manager, on pauline.appleby@sailtraininginternational.org Tel: +44(0) 7785 567487

Editor’ notes:

A word from your sponsor

Lycamobile is the world’ favourite international SIM card. With over 30 million customers across 16 countries, it allows customers to benefit from fantastic, low rates to call their friends and family abroad.

Lycamobile is delighted to be sponsoring this year’ Lycamobile Mediterranean Tall Ships Regatta, with its mission to connect to global communities.  

If you need to call your family and friends during the Regatta please look out for their stand space portside in Barcelona, Toulon and La Spezia.   

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