TALL SHIPS - GREENOCK 2

On the spur of the moment I decided to pay another visit to the Tall Ships lying at Greenock. They head off tomorrow at midday; I hope I will be able to see them leave the Clyde as I am going to be "doon the watter" in Millport for a funeral.

I had a great time going on board the various sail training ships. Crews were arriving late afternoon on all the boats. They were all starting to do their safety drills and being shown how to wear a life preserver.

This is the bowsprit of the Polish ship Dar Mlodziezy.

Tonight there is is to be fireworks and a big party ashore for all the crews. The plan is that they are all going to cruise up the west coast and end up in Lerwick, Shetland Isles at the end of July. Then they head to Norway; some cruise and some race. There are in the region of 60 boats taking part.

This is the large flag of the Mir from Russia and the smaller flags on the left are part of their collection of courtesy flags of other countries.

There were signs up on the dock telling a bit about the ships. One ship (Europa) says "no experience necessary". Another (De Gallant) was looking for "trainees" to fill vacancies. I am certainly tempted but think I would like to see the bunk arrangement first, i.e. cabins can be very claustrophobic!

The ship from Columbia, the Gloria, was a naval vessel and was very smart, i.e. lots of wood paneling and brasswork on deck.

The crew on the Columbian ship Gloria were young, clean-shaven and very smart in their naval uniforms. The doors to their quarters (or working areas?) were equally impressive!