All hands on deck! Mast boats prepare for regatta
Published: 21 April, 2009, 10:14
TAGS: Russia, Thrills&Spills
For more than 80 years, the Kruzenshtern has ploughed the waves of the high seas. But the good ship is far from retirement.
The pre-World War II era vessel has entered the Tall Ships Trans-Atlantic Challenge, which starts in Spain at the end of April. The majestic boats will cross to Bermuda, and up to Canada, racing along traditional trade routes.
“Well, regatta is like the Olympic Games: participation is more important than victory, but we have won many times. The Kruzhenstern is holding a world speed record. But in the end, it all depends on sea fortune,” says one of the organizers, Andrey Krainy.
This journey is particularly poignant. Built in 1926 in Germany, the ship passed from Nazi to Soviet hands at the end of World War II, joining the Soviet Baltic fleet. This latest voyage is dedicated to the 65th anniversary of the end of Russia’s Great Patriotic War.
The weather good, the band plays on, while the men onboard prepare for the first five-month leg of what will be a year-long voyage.
Most of the crew are youngsters in training.
“I always knew I will be sailing on this ship. I've been training for a long time, I'm not worried, just excited,” says one cadet.
Others, who are old hands, look more matter-of-fact.
“I used to feel romantic about it all when I was young, but not any more, I've done it so many times,” says Lev, who is a sailmaker and mender.
On dry land, though, his family can’t help but get emotional.
“We are sad that he's leaving again. But we are also very proud our grandpa is sailing on this legendary boat,” his daughter says.
Lev will be climbing the rigging to ensure plain sailing – he’s already experienced some amazing adventures onboard the octogenarian lady of the seas, including voyages on hydrographic missions, traveling round the world. She’s an impressive sight at full sail – no small wonder then that she’s featured in numerous films from both the Nazi and Soviet eras.
All hands on deck: having left its berth, the crew will now experience the thrill of sailing for the first time on the Kruzhenstern. Waving goodbye, they are off to cruise at least one or two of the seven seas.
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