After years of planning and preparation, the 58th edition of the world famous Tall Ships Races began today in Sunderland, UK. The River Wear has offered the ideal setting for the Tall Ships fleet as a Royal visit began the celebrations in magnificent fashion…
In a ceremony held at the National Glass Centre, the Mayor of Sunderland, Lynda Scanlon, welcomed the Tall Ships fleet in what is expected to be one of the highlights of the city’s cultural calendar.
“This fantastic international celebration of sail training with ships and crews from 16 countries taking part is a truly world-class event and the jewel in the crown of a year-round programme of things to see and do here in Sunderland.
“On behalf of the city, I would like to pass on my thanks to all involved in making this event possible.”
Mayor of Sunderland, Lynda Sanlon
Sail Training International Race Chairman, Knut Western, echoed the sentiments of the Mayor of Sunderland.
“It has been a fantastic opening day of the TSR here in Sunderland, people are coming out to see the ships and all I have talked with are happy and positive. Many have said that they have not seen Sunderland like this, and wish it could continue.
“The atmosphere around the quaysides is just what we as organisers want it to be to make the port visit special for the young trainees who are coming from all corners of the world.”
Knut Western, Race Chairman, Sail Training International
A ROYAL WELCOME
The Tall Ships fleet was honoured with a very special visit on the opening day of the festivities as Her Royal Highness, Princess Royal paid a visit to the Manor Quay and the Danish Class B Tall Ship, Skonnerten Jylland, and Class A Tall Ship, Loa.
During the visit, she met Sail Training International Race Chairman, Knut Western, Race Director, Paul Bishop, and trainees and crews from the Danish vessels.
THE TALL SHIPS FLEET ARRIVE IN SUNDERLAND
Throughout the morning the final additions to the Tall Ships fleet arrived in Sunderland ready to begin an epic adventure across the North Sea to Esbjerg, Denmark, and beyond.
About the tall ships races 2018
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!
Sunderland, UK 11 July – 14 July
Race 1