Huge turnout at Crew Parade in Volos

Football crowd-style volumes of visitors estimating 36,000 turned up in Volos last night for the Historical Seas Tall Ships Regatta Crew Parade and sports day prizegiving.

The balmy evening sunset across the bay made the perfect backdrop for this memorable occasion and crews were able to enjoy being part of the carnival as they marched the Argonafton Riviera to the main stage where prizes were presented by Alaekos Voultalris – the Mayor of Volos – under the directorship of Peter Newell – Historical Seas Tall Ships Regatta Director,

A total of 12 prizes were presented with Team Shabab Oman taking two of the major prizes including football and also the extremely competitive beach volleyball match. Team Dar Mlodziezy from Poland demonstrated fine skill in the volleyball, while the Russians from Mir out-pulled the rest of the teams in the rowing race in the harbour.

Special prizes included the Youngest Captain, which went to Magda Makowska from Poland, captain of Mati, the Youngest Crew Member, 16-year-old Batutan Ors from Turkey who’ sailing aboard the beautiful schooner Bodrum.

Dewaruci from Indonesia may not have picked up any ‘silverware’ on the sports field but they know a thing or two about how to draw the crowds. A stunning display of traditional dance lifted the carnival atmosphere and the team, not surprisingly, won the prize for the Best in Parade. They also qualified as the Ship furthest from Home Port. Akela from Russia picked up the award for the Best Decorated Ship, and finally a special prize – the Argo prize – went to Lou Lyddon for his commitment to the Argo dream since 1984. 

Following the crew party last night, many crews are taking the opportunity to recuperate today in preparation for tomorrow’ departure on the Parade of Sail. Once out on the water, the ships will make their way overnight to Skiathos where an early Thursday morning start is scheduled.

The Captains Briefing will take place later today at Volos Town Hall, followed by the afterguard party at the Municipality of Volos.

The fine weather here in Volos is continuing to attract thousands of visitors including the hundreds of young school children aged between 6-12 year’ old. Yesterday 500 children from 17 different schools from the region visited the ships and enjoyed educational tours carried out by crew from the ships. Similar numbers are expected today.