The Rendez-Vous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta arrived in Quebec City, Canada today (Tuesday 18 July) – the jewel in the crown of this historic Tall Ships event.
Thirty eight beautiful and fascinating ships from around the world, and their international crews, are mooring up in Quebec for a celebration of international friendship and understanding.
The oldest ship in the fleet is Brigantine Black Jack; built in 1904 she’s 113 years old and has on board a lady sailing on her 100th Tall Ship adventure. The youngest vessel is El Galeon, and whilst she looks the oldest she’s a replica ship that was built in 2009.
Four military ships are opening their decks to visitors. Esmeralda from the Chilean Navy has the largest crew, with 328 permanent and trainee crew in total. Guayas from Equador is moored across the river in Levis to ensure visitors are welcomed on both sides and visitors can also see Eagle from the USA and Canadian cadet ship HMCS Oriole.
Of particular interest are the four vessels which are sailing in the whole event – Blue Clipper, Jolie Brise, Peter von Danzig and Rona II. Their adventures started in Royal Greenwich, UK back in April and won’t finish until they reach Le Havre, France in September. Captains and crews have changed along the way, but the ships are going strong!
WHY QUEBEC?
Quebec is one of the oldest European Settlements in North America and the perfect location for a celebration that will be remembered for a long, long time. It is packed full of charm, unique culture and urban savoir-fire – a city recognised as a world heritage site by UNESCO.
“In honour of Canada 150 we selected Quebec City because as the ships arrive, sailing along the Gulf of St Lawrence, much of what they see was originally viewed by European explorers centuries ago. Sail Training International only organises Transatlantic events every eight to ten years so this is a unique opportunity to commemorate the rich history of sailing in Canada and create once in a life opportunities to change young people’s lives.”
Doug Prothero, Chairman, Rendez-Vous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta
“These Tall Ships are the stuff of dreams … just like our magnificent capital. Bask in its beauty, history and architecture. Let yourself be delighted by its romantic little streets, its lively and colourful plazas and its charming locals. You’ll return home with happy memories. Thank you for coming to visit us and making RDV2017 a grand and unforgettable event.”
Francois Moreau, President, Rendez-vous Naval de Quebec and Chairman of Rendez-Vous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta Canada
And the crews are in for a treat. As well as the traditional crew party and crew parade through Old Quebec they have a well-equipped crew centre with wifi and washing machines (with washing powder!) They also have some much appreciated comfy sofas and lots of games from pool, babyfoot, ping pong and air hockey tables to an outdoor volleyball court and even arcades.
LAST CHANCE TO SAIL ACROSS THE ATLANTIC
There’s not long until the start of the final race of the Rendez-Vous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta and there are just a handful of berths left on board Blue Clipper and Atyla.
The Rendez-Vous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta has seen the Tall Ships fleet race over 5,000 miles and visit six countries.The fifth and final race from Halifax, Canada to Le Havre, France is from 2-30 August, and is set to be an exciting and inspiring transatlantic voyage that will bring you the best that ocean sailing has to offer.
Setting off from Halifax, Canada, you’ll be able to experience the final major Tall Ships celebrations on Canadian soil. Halifax is the largest city in Atlantic Canada, and it marries rich maritime history with a modern energy to welcome vessels and visitors with the best of old and new.
The 2,700 mile transatlantic crossing will bring you the raw excitement and adrenaline of ocean sailing at its best. Alongside the unique challenge of racing with other Tall Ships across the ocean, you’ll experience magnificent sunsets and awesome marine wildlife. Adjusting sails, working in the galley, learning navigation and meeting crew mates from all over the world are just some of the experiences you’ll have on board, creating truly unforgettable memories.
Book directly with the vessel – or – email our friendly team on enquiries@sailonboard.com They can make recommendations, answer question and process your booking for you.
See images from the event on our Facebook page here.
Photos: RDV2017 banners in Quebec City, Canada (banner and feature image) and celebrating a 100th voyage on Black Jack. All photos Sail Training International.
