The Rendez-Vous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta fleet have begun making their way to the start of Race 4, following the last fantastic day of celebrations in Boston, USA…
Before the fleet left, we caught up with an old friend that we’ve have been following since the start of this epic regatta. Catheryne Lanford, from Canada, has been sailing on board the Tall Ships since the fleet departed Royal Greenwich. Here’s what she had to say about her adventures so far and how she feels about her impending homecoming.
Catheryne Langford, sail trainee we followed on her epic journey in the Rendez-Vous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta.
How enjoyable have your experiences been in the four countries you have visited so far in the Regatta?
“I really enjoyed Sines, I think it was a small city and welcoming. I prefer when you have a strong local feeling, and the parties were really, really good. But, every time we have arrived in ports it has been magic with all the Tall Ships and being able to get to shore after being at sea!”
What has been your favourite journey at sea so far?
“Ummm, I like it when it is sunny, but not too much. I have a hammock, and when we are sailing without too much wind, I can relax with my laptop, do some drawing and just watch the sea. All of the races have been great, I could not say if any have been ‘the best.’ I had a really great moment from Royal Greenwich with my friends at night watching shooting stars across the beautiful night sky. There was classical music playing and the weather was perfect!”
What has been the worst bit at sea?
“I don’t know… it has all been fantastic. Even the tough moments are all part of the experience!”
What are you most looking forward too when you get home?
“I have mixed feelings, because I really love sailing. I have been with Blue Clipper (UK) for two months and they are like my family, but what I miss is also my friends and family at home. When I return, they will all be there and I really look forward to this.”
LOOKING FORWARD TO the Canadian Guest Ports Programme
Once they pass the finish line of Race 4 at the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, the Tall Ships will disperse and begin the the Rendez-Vous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta Guest Ports Programme. This programme is an opportunity to sample the hospitality of more than 31 different and beautiful Canadian guest ports in the region.
Far away from the high energy of racing and four-day host city festivities, it’s a chance for vessels to enjoy a pre-planned 48-hour stop-over, or longer, in order to sample the diversity of maritime heritage and different cultures that each Canadian guest port has to offer.
Crews will have the chance to explore the beautiful maritime provinces of Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick, as well as the provinces of Québec and Ontario. Plus, take advantage of a programme of events and crew facilities which will be provided in each port.
GET INVOLVED
You can still be part of this adventure of a lifetime. Berths are available throughout the exciting and expansive Canadian Guest Ports Programme, and Wylde Swan‘s voyage to Hamilton, onwards. Check out the available places on our Rendez-Vous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta event pages.
You can book your place directly with a participating vessel, or if you’d like help simply email our friendly team on enquiries@sailonboard.com, who can make recommendations, answer questions and process your booking for you.
Photo: Vessels undocking in Boston, courtesy of Valery Vasilevski.