(With extra pictures) This morning, 31 March, classic ships ready to start the Race of the Classics (ROTC), raised their sails in salute before sailing on to Vlissingen. SWZ Maritime editor Hugo Dill was in Rotterdam and took pictures.
The 22 ships were to cross to England, then return to Brugge to finish 6 April in Amsterdam by way of IJmuiden. However, after years of too much wind, this year there is a lack of wind. Therefore, after leaving the Veerhaven in Rotterdam and dropping of the sponsors in Maassluis, the 22 ships carrying some 500 students had to head to Vlissingen first. After reaching Vlissingen, it is hoped the wind will pick up and the crossing to England will be possible.
Race of the Classics
It is the 26th edition of the ROTC in which students compete sailing on classic ships. The race is all about sailing and the competition between Dutch universities and colleges. In addition, the race stimulates networking between students and companies. The teams can win a Challenge Cup, a Golden Compass, the Media Award and the Race Achievement Award.
Yesterday, on 30 March, the ships were open to the public. Today, the ships presented themselves with hoisted sails for a showstart past the Erasmus Bridge in Rotterdam after an opening speech by Erica Terpstra.
Below an album containing the pictures SWZ Maritime editor Hugo Dill shot in Rotterdam today. Please click the pop-out link (the little squares at the bottom right) to view the pictures in their proper dimensions.
