The number of SCF Black Sea Tall Ships Regatta participants increased by 30% from 17 in 2014 to 27 in 2016, press center of the international regatta told the regional correspondent of IAA PortNews.
Tall ships of A, B, C and D classes represent Russia, Bulgaria, Poland and Vanuatu.
Russia’s largest tall ships including Mir, Kruzenshtern, Nadezhda and Khersones take part in the Regatta.
It’s the first time that ships have raced between two Russian ports, Novorossisyk and Sochi. In the course of a tough competition tall ship Nadezhda had to abandon racing due to a mast damange. Upon completion of its repair in Sochi the Nadezhda is going to take part in the final race (Sochi-Varna).
The International Black Sea Tall Ships Regatta 2016 is held from September 8 till October 4. The largest Tall Ships from 7 countries including Mir, Kruzenshtern, Nadezhda and Khersones tall ships of Russia will twice cross the Black Sea and visit four ports: Constanta, Novorossiysk, Sochi and Varna. 13 training tall ships (including six A class vessels) participate in the Regatta. About 1,500 young people take part in the event.
According to tradition, the Regatta is taking place under the patronage of the heads of the participating states. The Regatta is organized by Sail Training International (STI), Russia’s largest shipping company Sovcomflot (Title Sponsor) and non-commercial organisation Sochi Marine Club with Rosmorport as a General Partner. The event is supported by RF Ministry of Transport, Russian Geographical Society and NOVATEK OJSC.
On their route the tall ships and their crews spend four days at each city participating in the Regatta. Special programme is developed for citizens, tourists, crewmembers and guests including the parade of the participants along the main streets of the host cities, the parade of sail, fireworks, rock-concerts, sport competitions and ceremonial receptions for participants and guests of honour.
Host ports and races:
Constanta, Romania: September 8-11,
Race 1: Constanta – Novorossiysk, 410 nautical miles
Novorossiysk, Russia: September 16-19,
Race 2: Novorossiysk – Sochi, 115 nautical miles
Sochi, Russia: September 21-25
Race 3: Sochi-Varna, 525 nautical miles
Varna, Bulgaria: October 1-4