First Sail Training International event in Australasian waters
The largest Tall Ship fleet to visit Australia in a generation is now celebrating in Sydney Harbour, before preparing to race to Auckland in the 2013 Sydney Auckland Tall Ships Regatta – organised by Sail Training International.
Over 40 visiting warships and 19 Tall Ships have joined the Royal Australian Navy fleet to participate in this historic event. They were greeted by thousands of cheering citizens as they entered Sydney Harbour.
The 2013 Sydney to Auckland Tall Ships Regatta is the first ever Sail Training International event to be held in Australasian waters. Seven Tall Ships from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands are taking part and will race for line honours and overall winner in this inaugural event.
The Regatta is a unique opportunity for individuals of all ages to take part in a world class event and hundreds of crew of all levels of experience will board the ships for the race across the Tasman Sea to Auckland, New Zealand.
The fleet of Tall Ships which entered Sydney Harbour was led by the Australian vessel STS Young Endeavour. Trainee Kaela Sparre, who had sailed aboard Young Endeavour said, äóìThe voyage was the best experience of my life and I would recommend it to anyone. I have been sailing on smaller vessels for 12 years but sailing on a Tall Ship has doubled my love for sailing.äó
A small number of crew berths remain available. During each voyage a professional crew will explain and teach all crew members about navigation, sail handling, square rig sailing and much more. People of all ages and backgrounds can participate – no sailing experience is required.
Paul Bishop, Race Director said, “The Tall Ships have received a tremendous welcome here in Sydney and crews have been enjoying the amazing spectacle surrounding the International Fleet Review over the past couple of days. The AUSTA volunteers are working around the clock to look after the needs of the ships and crews before they start the inaugural race to New Zealand on Thursday.äó
The Tall Ship Festival is being held in Darling Harbour, at the Australian National Maritime Museum and Cockle Bay. Visitors can enjoy open days, sails around Sydney Harbour and activities for the whole family. See the full Sydney Tall Ship Festival program here.
– ends –
