The major holiday of sailing and ancient vessels, Armada Race, was marked in Rouen from June 5 to June 16. The holiday celebrated its 30^th anniversary in 2019. The FSUE “Rosmorport” Mir sailing ship visited the solemn events. The sailing ship arrived at the port to take part in the Liberty Tall Ships Regatta international race.

The holiday is celebrated every five years. Just like in 2013, 500 vessels, including modern military ships, ancient vessels, sailing ships of different schools, covered the 120-kilometer route on the Seine and called at the port of the capital of Normandy on June 6. During the festival, everyone interested in sailing matters had the unique opportunity to come aboard the world’s most considerable and beautiful sailing ships, including the Mir sailing ship. Those who wished it could take the wheel and study sailors’ lifestyle aboard the ship. Cadets of higher educational establishments spoke in detail about their navigation practice, as well as the sailing ship’s construction and maritime professions.

Different entertainment and educational events were organized for cadets ashore. The cadets visited the most beautiful tourist attraction of Rouen – the Primatial Notre Dame Cathedral, visited St. Ouen’s Abbey and took part in hop-on/hop-off tours.

On the occasion of Russia Day that crewmembers had marked away from Motherland the parade of crewmembers and cadets was held and the flag of the Russian Federation was hoisted.

As part of the festival Russian Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to France Alexei Meshkov visited the Mir sailing ship. The excursion on the ship was conducted for him.

On June 16 an ambitious festive program was organized in celebration of the closure of the festival. The program included the great parade of sails, fireworks and concerts. Then the ships had left for the launching site where the four-day race, Liberty Tall Ships Regatta 2019, started on the English Channel on June 17. The race will take place between France and the Netherlands.