News / Tall ships start to arrive
AS THE fleet of 56 tall ships are slowly making their way to Shetland against the continuous northerly breeze, neighbouring Orkney has declared the visit of more than 20 vessels taking part in the Cruise in Company a “whirlwind success”.
Only a few vessels made it as far north as Unst, Yell, and Whalsay over the weekend to participate in local celebrations and galas.
Orkney Islands Council convener Stephen Hagan said the islands had showcased themselves as a “premier stopover” and that there was “no better place for the Tall Ships to come to”.
“Everyone who worked on the event – from our 30 inspiring local trainees who played a pivotal role in helping to pull Tall Ships into the county, to local event organisers, planners and volunteers – should be immensely proud of the result.
“They have helped lay a strong foundation for further Tall Ships visits in successive years, and have showcased Orkney and our island culture to the world in true style. Some ships have already indicated an interest in coming back to Orkney independently,” Mr Hagan said.
Meanwhile, the first of the tall ships due in Lerwick for Thursday arrived on Tuesday lunchtime and berthed at the Albert Dock next to the Lerwick Port Authority building.
The almost 70 year-old Auno is a traditionally rigged sailing vessel, with cabins and lounges and has five crew and five sail trainees on board.
Harbourmaster Captain Calum Grains said: “It is great to see the realisation of many months of planning for the tall ships fleet. It will be a busy few days with arrivals but we are all ready for them and looking forward to welcoming the international crews to Lerwick.”
Two more tall ships, the Urania and Wyvern Av Aalesund arrived at Lerwick harbour during the afternoon.
Scalloway, meanwhile welcomed the German schooner Esprit at around 6pm on Monday night, and a second tall ship, the A-Class Eendracht arrived on Tuesday midday.
Unst currently plays host to three vessels, Shetland’s own Swan, the Alba Endeavour and B-Class vessel Moosk.
Six Tall Ships are currently in Fair Isle including Zenobe Gramme, The Rupel, Miles to Go, Jens Krough, Wyvern and the Sorlandet which is at anchor.
The striking German Class A ship Alexander Von Humbolt is anchored off Whalsay, with crew hoping to get ashore tonight on smaller boats.
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