On September 16, 2016 the Black Sea Tall Ships Regatta 2016 official opening ceremony was held in Novorossiysk.

First vessels started arriving in the hero city the day before. The first was Akela yacht, which in the morning moored in the seaport. FSUE “Rosmorport” Mir and Nadezhda sailing ships were also among the leaders.

The winners of the first stage of the regatta were met by Acting Head of the city of Novorossiysk municipality Igor Dyachenko, Deputy Head of Rosmorrechflot Alexander Poshivay, Executive Director of FSUE “Rosmorport” Andrey Lavrischev, President of PAO “Novoship” Yury Tsvetkov, Chairman of the “SCF Black Sea Tall Ships Regatta 2016”, representative Sail Training International (STI) Training Sailing Ships Association Robin Snouck Hurgronje and others.

During the event, the head of the region greeted teams and wished them good luck in the race along the Novorossiysk - Sochi route.

At the end of the ceremony the participants exchanged memorable gifts.

The sailing ships will stay in Novorossisk until September 19. Within three days, the city residents will have a unique opportunity to go on board sailing ships. The festive program includes a parade of crews, musical concerts, creative competitions, sports activities and colorful fireworks. There will also be a photo exhibition and maquettes exposition. On September 18 parade of the Regatta participants and the first stage of the race awarding ceremony will be held.