Enormous Crowd of Approximately 170,000 Witnesses Windjammer Parade in Kiel
Kieler Woche's Windjammer Sailing Parade: A Grand Maritime Spectacle
Schleswig-Holstein's "Sailing City," Kiel, hosted its famous Windjammer Sailing Parade once again during Kieler Woche. Estimates suggest that around 170,000 people watched this year's spectacle, slightly surpassing last year's 150,000 spectators, according to a city spokesperson.
The wind conditions were perfect, creating an ideal sailing environment for the participants. Thousands gathered along the Falckensteiner Strand alone, joined by spectators on numerous boats, to witness this annual maritime highlight.
At the forefront of the parade was the majestic German sail training ship "Gorch Fock," proudly unfurling its full rigging. In a rare permit, the ship's commander, Elmar Bornkessel, decided to sail at a jaw-dropping 6.5 knots, which equates to about 12 kilometers per hour. Ordinarily, the ship maintains a speed of around 3.5 to 4 knots [less than 10 kilometers per hour] during parades. Bornkessel wanted to "sail out of the Kieler Fjord with the handbrake off."
Behind the "Gorch Fock," more than 120 ships, including 59 traditional sailing vessels, formed on the fjord. Iconic ships like the "Alexander von Humboldt II," the "Gulden Leeuw," the "Thor Heyerdahl," and the "Roald Amundsen" joined the navy's three-master, creating a captivating sight.
The ships began the procession around 11:00 AM and had to maintain formation until they passed a hypothetical line between Kiel-Schilksee on the west bank and Laboe on the east bank. The spectacle was a delight for both land and water-based spectators, who were drawn to Kieler Woche's cultural and historic dimensions.
The Windjammer Sailing Parade, an integral part of Kieler Woche, symbolizes sailing heritage, showcasing majestic, historic ships like the "Gorch Fock." It adds to the festival's reputation as the world's largest sailing event, attracting significant international participation and crowds.
Historically, the Kieler Woche originated in 1882 as a small regatta, but it has evolved into the massive international sailing festival we know today. Participants hail from 60 nations, competing in approximately 400 races. The parade's variety and visual appeal are undoubtedly among the factors that contribute to its significant public interest.
Spectators on land and water were captivated by the variety of sports presented during the Windjammer Sailing Parade, an integral part of Kieler Woche. This annual maritime spectacle showcased historic ships like the "Gorch Fock," participating in a grand sailing competition.
