Countdown to SCF Black Sea Tall Ship Regatta 2016 Begins….

After a hugely successful inaugural event in 2014, the SCF Black Sea Tall Ships Regatta returns on 8 September and includes the first ever race between two Russian ports.

Sponsored by Sovcomflot (SCF) – one of the world’s largest shipping companies – the event supports SCF’s social responsibility to support young people in maritime professions and bolster the interest for the maritime industry among Russia’s youth and is presented under the patronage of the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin.

Event organiser Sail Training International is bringing together some 27 vessels, with 13 racing from the first port of Constanta, Romania to Novorossisyk, Russia (including eight Class A vessels). The second race of some 26 vessels departs Novorossisyk for Sochi, Russia, from where the third and final race of 13 of the largest ships departs to Varna, Bulgaria.

The International Tall Ships fleet represents five different flag states – Bulgaria, Russia, Romania, Poland, and Vanuatu.

“We look forward to returning to the Black Sea,” said Race Chairman Robin Snouck Hurgronje. “With more ships taking part and even more visitors to the ports expected, the SCF Black Sea Tall Ships Regatta 2016 is going to be even bigger and better than in 2014. Our partners in the four ports are working hard to prepare for the arrival of the ships and we thank them for their on-going commitment to sail training.”

Sail training adventure

The vessels will be sailed by over 1,300 trainees and professional crew from around the world, all taking part in the adventure activity of sail training, confronting demanding challenges at sea, both physical and emotional.

Sail Training is an activity that inspires self-confidence and personal responsibility and promotes an acceptance of others, whatever their social or cultural backgrounds. Those who undertake sail training on Tall Ships find it a positive, life-changing experience.

As a spectator experience, the port festivals are like no other, and are expected to attract around two million visitors over the four ports. Activities and entertainments will be provided for all ages, using the magnificent Tall Ships as a backdrop.

“We are delighted to be returning to the Black Sea this year, promoting international friendship and understanding in what can be a turbulent world,” said Robin Snouck-Hurgronje, Event Chairman, Sail Training International. He continued “The trainees taking part will have an experience of a lifetime with lots of fun and personal challenges along the way.  We are very pleased to be working with the four cities of Sochi, Novorossisyk, Constanta and Varna for a second time and are sure that their residents and visitors will all enjoy the festivities that are provided for them.”

Event and race dates are:

You can find out more about the SCF Black Sea Tall Ships Regatta 2016 by going to the event page.