During the Tall Ships Races in Antwerp, the 99-year-old Sørlandet steals the show. This Norwegian training ship, with its impressive 35-meter high masts, captures the attention of maritime enthusiasts and passers-by. The three-masted vessel, originally built as a training ship, has accumulated a remarkable history over the years, as told by its crew. Visitors can come aboard and learn about the ship that once shone at the Chicago World's Fair and even witnessed a Soviet bombardment during World War II.
What is Happening
The Sørlandet is currently on display in the port of Antwerp, where it is part of the fleet of historic ships participating in the Tall Ships Races. The ship, with nearly a century of maritime history, is one of the most photographed and visited vessels during the event. Ship's doctor Kari Hilde Juvkam gladly shares the various stories associated with the ship. One of the most persistent anecdotes is the story that the Nazis used the ship as a floating prison, a claim that adds to the mystique surrounding the Sørlandet. Hundreds of Belgian visitors are crowding to catch a glimpse of the Norwegian Sørlandet.
Historical Tales of a Three-Masted Ship
The stories surrounding the Sørlandet extend beyond just the war period. They include its role as a peaceful training ship, its participation in international events such as the World's Fair, and the resilience it showed after sustaining damage. These elements highlight the cultural and historical value of this maritime heritage for the Belgian port city. The port of Antwerp embraces these historical ships and their stories.
Background
The Tall Ships Races are an annual event that offers young people from all over the world the opportunity to learn to sail and participate in an international race. The events attract millions of visitors to the host cities, including traditionally many Belgian cities such as Antwerp and Ostend. The choice of Antwerp as a host city underscores the importance of the port for world-class maritime events and tourism in Flanders. The event promotes not only the love of sailing but also international exchange and friendship between participating countries. The presence of iconic ships like the Sørlandet enhances the appeal of the Tall Ships Races.
What This Means for Belgium
Sørlandet's presence and the entire Tall Ships Races have a significant impact on Antwerp and Belgium as a whole. The event attracts a large number of tourists, stimulating the local economy, especially in the hospitality and retail sectors. Additionally, it strengthens Antwerp's international reputation as a cultural and maritime hub. The events also provide educational value by connecting the public, especially young people, with maritime history and traditions. The Flemish Government and Toerisme Vlaanderen annually support such events to promote the region. According to HLN, Antwerp is one of the places where the public can visit these races.