The Tall Ships Races 2018 fleet departed Stavanger with a Parade of Sail in fresh breeze and radiant sunshine on Sunday after a hugely successful fourth visit to the idyllic Norwegian port.
Crowds were thrilled by the spectacle of the crew aloft on the yards of Tarangini (India) showing off their dance moves as they headed out from the penultimate port in this year’s series, whilst Shtandart (Russia) fired their trademark cannon to deafening effect.
The fleet made its way up Byfjorden towards the North Sea surrounded by a large flotilla of local craft out to enjoy the spectacle. Tungenes Fyr headland was packed with spectators as the crews headed out to sea ahead of the start of Race 2 to Harlingen in the Netherlands, which is scheduled to start from 16:00 UTC (18:00 local time) tomorrow.
Rain didn’t dampen spirits on Saturday night on the eve of the fleet’s departure as Stavanger staged its largest firework display in a decade to mark the end of the Tall Ships Races 2018. Despite the wet conditions, crowds gathered throughout the harbour to witness 440kg of pyrotechnics exploding over the harbour, not matched since the city celebrated its status as European Capital of Culture in 2008.
Mayor of Stavanger Christine Sagen Helgø said it had been “some amazing days” hosting the Tall Ships Races 2018 fleet.
“We were hoping for nice weather, but no one had imagined that there would be a heat record. Everyone is very pleased with the event including crews, emergency services and everyone else I’ve talked to. The Tall Ships Races is the actual flagship within our festivals. Every seventh year since 1997, Stavanger has shown that we know have this should be done. I think it would be a good idea to be host port again in 2025 when the city celebrates the 900th anniversary.”
Mayor of Stavanger Christine Sagen Helgø
Sail Training International Race Chairman Sigurd Dale said it had been great to see the “beaming smiles” on the faces of the trainees representing 35 different nations and the visiting crowds over the past few days.
“It’s been an incredible four days here in Stavanger. It’s an ideal location to host the Tall Ships Races with the entire fleet together in a compact area. Thanks to the tireless dedication of the project team, the many hard-working volunteers and the support of the politicians united behind the event, it has been a huge success.
“We know the city is very keen to welcome the fleet back as part of Stavanger’s 900th anniversary in 2025 and it’d be great for the Tall Ships Races to be part of that special celebration if we can work together to make that happen. On behalf of Sail Training International and the Tall Ships Races 2018 fleet, thank you Stavanger for, once again, delivering a truly memorable event.”
Sail Training International Race Chairman Sigurd Dale
Today was a special day for all the young trainees setting sail but especially for Rachele Faralli from Tuscany in Italy who was celebrating her 18th birthday as she set sail on her first Tall Ships Race.
Rachele, who received funding from the Oman Bursary Programme, is taking part in Race 2 from Stavanger to Harlingen on board Morgenster (the Netherlands).
“It’s my birthday today and it’s a great feeling to be going to sea – I feel so lucky to be here. I hope to win but at the same time to have some fun. It’s going to be interesting living so close together with many people and the food on board is a bit of a challenge but last night we made a traditional Italian lasagne and that was delicious.”
Before the fleet departed from Stavanger, a joint Christian worship service was held conducted in Norwegian and English led by acting Bishop Anne Lise Ådnøy and Anglican Chaplain Revd. Peter Hogarth. Afterwards, a wreath was presented to the crew of INS Tarangini (India), the vessel which had travelled from furthest afield.
Before departing from Stavanger the Race Committee revised the arrangements for the start of Race 2 from Stavanger to Harlingen after reviewing the latest weather forecasts on Sunday morning.
The Race 2 Start shall now be outside the North Channel to Stavanger with all vessels crossing the Start Line between 16:00 and 22:00 UTC (18:00 and 24:00 local) on Monday 30 July.
ABOUT THE TALL SHIPS RACES 2018
The Tall Ships Races 2018 will be the 58th edition of the world famous international race series. This year’s event takes place in the North Sea visiting four ports in 27 days, taking the fleet from the UK to Denmark, Norway and the Netherlands.
Participating in The Tall Ships Races 2018 is a fantastic experience that you can take part in too! There’s zero experience necessary and there are places are available on ships across the fleet on all race legs. There’s no need to wait – just do it!
RACE 1