Four days ago the Rendez-Vous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta sailed into Quebec, the jewel in the crown of this epic Transatlantic event, to celebrate Canada 150. Today (Sunday 23 July) the fleet took part in a spectacular Parade of Sail on the Saint Lawrence River (see Sail Training International Facebook for images) and then sailed away for to their next adventures.
Twelve ships finished their involvement in the Regatta in Quebec and sailed off to new horizons. Fifteen ships will sail to Halifax for four days of port festivities, from Saturday 29 July-Tuesday 1 August 2017, and preparations for the final Transatlantic race leg to Le Havre, France.
Thirteen vessels are exploring North American waters and nine Canadian ports as part of an Outport Programme involving short stop-overs.
Saturday 29 – Monday 31 July 2017: Norris Point, Corner Brook
Friday 4 – Sunday 6 August 2017: Sydney, Saint Peter’s, Louisbourg
Thursday 10 – Saturday 12 August 2017: Lunenburg
Monday 14 – Tuesday 15 August 2017: Shelburne
Tuesday 15 – Wednesday 16 August 2017: Digby
Friday 18 – Sunday 20 August 2017: Saint John
About Halifax: The Penultimate Regatta Port
Halifax is the penultimate port of the Regatta and the start port for the second and final Transatlantic leg, where eleven of the fleet will be making the epic journey to Le Havre in France.
Halifax is the largest city in Atlantic Canada and one of the most visited destinations in Nova Scotia.
It marries rich maritime history with a modern energy to welcome vessels and visitors with the best of old and new. Against the backdrop of a bustling commercial harbour, Halifax is proud to host the Regatta and show everyone why it won the award of Port of the Year.
The city’s historic waterfront is anchored by one of the world’s longest urban boardwalks – home to small local businesses, farmers’ markets and North America’s oldest saltwater ferry system.
Known for its welcoming and friendly nature, Halifax has plans to showcase the best of Nova Scotia through music, culinary, historical and family friendly experiences on both sides of the harbour, and in outport communities around the province.
It’s going to be a party that’s not to be missed.
NEWS FROM THE CREWS …
Felizaveta Ivanova (23|) sailing on Spaniel (Latvia)
“I had never sailed before but really wanted to try something new. I was inspired by stories and pictures from Sail Training Latvia so decided to give it a go and sail from Boston to Quebec. Before we set off I was very excited but at the same time a little nervous and just hoped it would all go smoothly. Most of all I was looking forward to being at sea and sailing, seeing wildlife and climbing the masts.
“It was amazing! Sometimes hard, sometimes easy and smooth, but that was all part of the adventure. I loved sailing and the friendly competition between all the vessels in the race; there were also opportunities to crew swap and experience different ships. I liked being at sea so much it sometimes felt we were spending too long in the ports. Another frustration was when we had no wind and had to put the engine on, which was not enjoyable.
“I have learnt a lot of lessons such as team work, decision making and taking care of others. And if you asked me the most important thing I learnt it’s this, for sure:
‘No-one is perfect, except the Captain.’
And if anyone asked me if they should try sail training I would say:
‘YOLO (You Only Live Once) take the opportunity and live this very special experience!’
Photo: Parade of Sail, Quebec. Sail Training International.