I'm Sailing: 17 mag 2009

The Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge 2009 is a spectacular odyssey around the North Atlantic Ocean of more than 7,000 nautical miles following the traditional route taken by sailing ships of a by-gone age. The vessels now are berthed at the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Harbour, Canary Islands, Spain having departed from Vigo Spain the 30th April this year. Anyone could take part in Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge 2009. Most of the vessels welcome novices as well as experienced sailors. The challenge is for anyone with a spirit of adventure, love of travel and sense of fun: the only problem will be choosing the best ship. I can't make my mind up ...

1. Europa

Class: A
Flag: The Netherlands
L.O.A. 44.5m
Rig: 3 Mast Barque
Year Built: 1911
Home Port: The Hague
Entered By: Rederij Bark Europa

2. Belle Poule

Class: B
Flag: France
L.O.A. 30.48
Rig: Schooner
Year Built: 1932
Home Port: Brest
Entered By: Marine Nationale - Ecole Navale

3. Jolie Brise

Class: B
Flag: UK
L.O.A. 17.1m
Rig: Gaff Cutter
Year Built: 1913
Home Port: Hamble, England
Entered By: Dauntsey's School, Wiltshire, England

4. Mircea

Class: A
Flag: Romania
L.O.A. 92.8
Rig: Barque
Year Built: 1939
Home Port: Constantz
Entered By: Romanian Naval Academy

5. Kruzenshtern

Class: A
Flag: Russia
L.O.A. 114.5m
Rig: Barque 4
Year Built: 1926
Home Port: Kaliningrad, Russia
Entered By: Baltic State Academy of the Fishing Fleet

6. Eagle