As we near the end of World Interfaith Harmony Week it’s the perfect time to reflect on the ways that Sail Training International brings people of all races, backgrounds and beliefs together in an adventure under sail and celebrate diversity.
International friendship and understanding is one of the central pillars of Sail On Board’s mission and 2016 saw over 25 different nationalities sail on board ships from over 20 flag states!
Races and Regattas
Our Tall Ships Races and Regattas promote international friendship and understanding, regardless of nationality, religion, gender, culture or social background. This has been realised year on year with our events bringing new sailors and ships together from around the world. One of our favourite event moments is when we invite a representative of every nation sailing in the fleet to come together for a group photo!
Nobel Peace Prize
In 2007, we were honoured to be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by Norwegian MP Svein Roald Hansen. The prize, that’s been awarded every year for over a century, recognises those who have “done the most or the best work for fraternity between nations, for the abolition or reduction of standing armies and for the holding and promotion of peace congresses”.
“The vision they share, exemplified by the traditions and achievements of their international events and other activities, demonstrate such a strong coherence with the ethos of the Peace Prize.
“Those involved in Sail Training International today have been the main architects of the international sail training activity over recent decades… I am proud to propose the organisation for the Nobel Peace Prize.”Svein Roald Hansen
Annual Recognition
Alongside our races and regattas, we also hold the annual International Sail Training and Tall Ships Conference. Here, we acknowledge the importance of promoting international friendship and understanding with the Janka Bielak Medal. In 2016, the award went to Jostein Haukali, a sail trainer from Norway in recognition of his decade long efforts in helping build long lasting relationships around the world.
Over 6,000 people joined took part in the Tall Ships Races & Regattas in 2018. Jump into adventure and enjoy the experience of lifetime by signing up to take part in 2019!
What’s Next?
The Rendez-Vous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta and Tall Ships Races 2017 are shaping up to continue to spread Sail On Board’s message of diversity around the world.
The Rendez-Vous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta already has vessels from 15 flag states participating – Canada, Chile, Cook Islands, Ecuador, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Netherlands, Norway, Oman, Peru, Russia, Spain, UK and the USA – and the Tall ships Races 2017 already has over that number across a fleet of over 80 ships.
If you want to Sail On Board and celebrate diversity in 2017, head over to our events page and find out how you can book a place in The Rendez-Vous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta and Tall Ships Races 2017. You can book directly with a participating vessel, or if you’d like help, simply email our friendly team at enquiries@sailonboard.com who can make recommendations, answer questions, and process your booking for you.