The Tall Ships fleet bid a fond farewell to the people of Klaipeda with a grand Parade of Sail out of the port as they made their way along to the start of Race 3 of the Tall Ships Races 2017…
The start of Race 3 took place just off of the coast of Klaipeda, and saw the fleet cross the line in three groups; the Class A vessels crossed between 14:00 UTC and 14:20 UTC, the Class B vessels began crossing at 14:30 UTC, the Class C vessels began at 14:45 and the Class D vessels began to cross the start line at15:00 UTC.
A Grand Parade
Before they made their way to the start of Race 3, the Tall Ships fleet thanked the people of Klaipeda with a spectacular parade out of the port. Over 70 vessels from all around the world, from the largest Class A Tall Ships, to the smallest Class D vessels, provided a spectacle that was the perfect finish to the festivities in the city.
Although the weather took a turn for the worse at the beginning of the parade, with heavy showers and dramatic thunder and lightening, thousands of Tall Ships spectators lined the Sané River and port side to say a farewell to the fleet.
Race Director, Mike Bowles, talked about how the start of the final race went.
“The day dawned bright and sunny for the undocking of our largest fleet of 80 vessels in Tall Ships Races 2017. The fleet made a wonderful sight as the Parade of Sail passed Klaipeda and out to sea. A quick thunderstorm at lunchtime cleared by afternoon and brisk south easterly wind sprung up an hour before the race start.
“1st across the line in Class A was Fryderyk Chopin, closely followed by Santa Maria Manuela and Kruzenshtern.
“In class B, Zawisza Czarny led the way with Helena and Leila close behind.
“In Class C Ocean Scout timed her arrival at the line to perfection and was 3 seconds behind the line at the sound of the gun. The large fleet was a wonderful sight as it sailed off in a south westerly direction.
“For the Class D vessels, Tuulelind sailed fantastically to lead across the start line.”
Race Director, Mike Bowles, Sail Training International
About the Tall Ships Races 2017
The Tall Ships Races 2017 is taking place in four different countries and five ports, with three exciting race legs across the Baltic Sea and a spectacular Cruise-in-Company. The event has attracted an incredible fleet of more than 100 vessels, and participation from an awesome number of trainees from around the world. There are trainee places available on each of the race legs and the Cruise-in-Company – book your place directly with a participating vessel.
Follow the Fleet
Watch the action as it happens and follow the fleet’s progress using YB Satellite Tracking.
What’s Next?
Want to get involved with the Tall Ships Races 2017? There are still berths available – secure your place today! Check out our event page for more information. Book your place directly with a participating vessel.
Photo: The start of Race 3 of the Tall Ships Races 2017 from Klaipeda, Lithuania, to Szczecin, Poland .