Amongst those soaking up the special atmosphere at the Tall Ships Races 2018 in Esbjerg on Friday were five happy couples who ‘tied the knot’ in style on board Christian Radich (Norway).
The lucky couples had won the opportunity to exchange their wedding vows on board one of the 56-strong fleet of vessels in the Danish energy metropolis. Crowds gathered on the quayside to cheer the newly-wed couples and local media flocked to get shots of the unique ceremonies.
The quayside was packed with visitors and crews enjoying activities, entertainment and soaking up the warm Danish hospitality ahead of their departure on Saturday.
The fleet will bid farewell to Esbjerg with what is set to be a stunning Parade of Sail ahead of a Cruise-in-Company to Stavanger in Norway.
Activities took place throughout the day both on and off the water including a duel between historic dory fishing boats. A Danish dory took to the water with one of the small flat-bottomed boats carried on the decks of Santa Maria Manuela (Portugal). In years gone by the small vessels were sailed by single fishermen for 13-hour stints before returning to the main vessel for soup, fish and a glass of wine.
At the Captains’ Briefing on Friday afternoon, representatives from each of the vessels were given detailed information ahead of tomorrow’s departure. With a forecast of glorious sunshine and a light westerly breeze, the scene is set for a memorable farewell to a city that has once again given the Tall Ships Races 2018 fleet an exceptional welcome and the young trainees from all over the world memories they will treasure for the rest of their lives.
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 will take 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!
Sunderland, UK 11 July – 14 July
Esbjerg, Denmark 18 July – 21 July
