Preparatory voyage - "The Gorch Fock" is back, flying the Holstein banner.
A sailing ship, bearing a large flag of football promoter "Holstein Kiel," sailed back to its homeport Kiel, after spending several months training at sea. This impressive three-masted vessel, named "Gorch Fock," docked at the maritime base on a sunny Friday morning, greeted by hundreds cheerful crew members, friends, and well-wishers.
Kristina Herbst, President of the Landtag, had previously visited the ship during its anchorage and presented the crew with a flag from the Kiel football club – a gesture that symbolized unity. "I bring you a new flag today, which also signifies team spirit," she remarked.
Embarking on a training voyage on March 8th, the "Gorch Fock" sailed to Spain, Morocco, Portugal, and France, under the command of Captain at Sea Peter Graf von Kielmansegg. Trainees from various countries like France, Cameroon, Ghana, Colombia, Senegal, Togo, and Tunisia were part of the crew as well.
Speaking about the voyage, Captain Graf von Kielmansegg expressed his satisfaction. "We had the required winds for our sailing ship, which is crucial. This journey gave everyone an opportunity for personal growth." Learning is a continuous process on the "Gorch Fock," adds the Captain. "Not just the cadets, but the permanent crew members also need to be trained regularly."
For Graf von Kielmannsegg, this is his final training trip with the "Gorch Fock." He shared, "There's a lot of sorrow involved, as this is my last voyage with the ship." However, before he passes on the responsibility, he will head the windjammer parade at Kiel Week on June 29th.
