The reduction in the entry fee for the upcoming Kieler Woche seems to have gone down well with the sailors. According to the organisers, 170 entries from 14 nations have already been received months before the first announcement signal.
"The enormous price increases in many areas have of course also left their mark on Kiel Week," explained Head of Organisation Dirk Ramhorst explains the decision: "This year's reduction in the entry fee, which applies to all competitions, is intended to keep the regatta attractive and affordable for everyone." For example, the Olympic Nacra 17 teams will only pay 240 euros instead of 300 euros, while the international Contender teams will pay 135 euros instead of 170 euros.
However, the discount is only valid until the end of April, so it is worth registering early. This should also make it easier to plan the organisation. More than 1,500 boats from around 50 nations are expected to take part, from kitefoilers to ocean-going yachts.
Kieler Woche is already particularly well-staffed in the junior 29er skiff. The class is sailing a Euro Cup as part of the traditional event. But names such as that of Kiel's Ilca 7 U21 World Champion Ole Schweckendiek can also already be found on the entry list.
Focus on sustainability
The next step in Kiel Week's sustainability strategy was also presented with the development of a digital platform for recording the carbon footprint. "Using an app, active participants can then record their individual carbon footprint," says Dirk Ramhorst, "which can be linked to local compensation measures in Schleswig-Holstein." In the long term, the initiative is to be extended to the public section together with the Kieler Woche office. In addition, all-electric shuttles will be used again.
The world's biggest sailing event will take place on the Kiel Fjord from 17 to 25 June. YACHT is also playing an important role this year as a new media partner and will be on site with its own digital team to offer its own content in addition to the wide range of Kieler Woche events.
