FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (July 2, 2007) – MSC Cruises is sponsoring the European sailing event of summer 2007, the Mediterranean Tall Ships’ Races 2007 taking place July 28-31. This regatta, honoring an ancient maritime tradition, will depart from Alicante, calling into Barcelona and Toulon before arriving in Genoa July 28.
Already sponsors of Shosholoza (participating in the Louis Vuitton Cup) and co-sponsor of Alinghi, contender in this year’s 32nd America’s Cup, MSC Cruises confirms its maritime tradition and continued support of the sea’s values through this historic and prestigious event.
The regatta attracts 40 ships, which will remain on display at Genoa’s Porto Antico through July 31. Thirteen of these are part of the “A class” (ships over 164 feet). These artistic sailing ships evoke images of adventure and pirates on the high seas and will have crews of 3,000 people ages 16-25 from various parts of the world.
During the four days, Genoa will be a theatre for Tall Ship night, the Pesto World Championships; visitors can participate in the golf tournament on the water, visit the European markets and watch in tango exhibitions and synchronized swimming, among other events. Each event reflects the spirit of a regatta, with its friendship and passion for those who love to sail.
“MSC Cruises has an affinity with the Tall Ships races,” declared Domenico Pellegrino, managing director for MSC Crociere, “as it represents the values that our company is founded on: love of the sea, solidarity and team work. It is not surprising that we often sponsor and support major events such as European football, sailing and minor sport not represented by national federations. For the sailing world, particularly, we have sponsored Shosholoza, the South African sailing boat that has taken part in the Louis Vuitton Cup.”
Shosholoza, with its South African team and Captain Sarno, will be Genoa for the Mediterranean Tall Ships’ Races 2007.
“This sponsorship,” continues Pellegrino, “consolidates the rapport and partnership between MSC Crociere and Genoa. In fact, the Ligurian capital of Genoa is the historic home-port for MSC Cruises. It was from Genoa that MSC Crociere began to cruise in 2005 during the winter season and year after year has positioned bigger and bigger ships. For winter 2007-08, two of the largest ships, MSC Musica and MSC Orchestra – the newest addition to the fleet –will depart from Genoa for 11- night cruises to both the eastern and western Mediterranean.”
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