Kiel Week: Around 185,000 Watch Windjammer Parade

An estimated 185,000 spectators lined the beaches to witness the Windjammerparade at Kiel Week, according to organizers. The traditional sailing event took place under clear summer skies, although participants noted light winds that occasionally required the use of engines.

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But the sails could of course still be set.

The parade was led by the German traditional ship "Thor Heyerdahl." It included 53 traditional vessels, 55 sports boats, and a multitude of spectator boats, bringing the total number of craft on the Kiel Fjord to between 700 and 800. While spectator boats did not officially participate in the parade, they followed along the edges of the procession.

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On the water, it is, I believe, the coolest spot, especially with the temperatures.

Prime viewing spots included Falckensteiner Strand on the west bank of the fjord, as well as the Kiellinie, Holtenauer Lighthouse, and the former MFG-5 site in Holtenau. On the east bank, the Fördewanderweg offered good views, particularly in Mönkeberg, Kitzeberg, and Möltenort.

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We had 53 traditional ships, 55 sports boats and any number of spectator boats.

The ships commenced their journey in the Kiel Fjord around 11:00 AM, maintaining formation until reaching a designated line between Kiel-Schilksee and Laboe. The Windjammerparade is considered the maritime centerpiece of Kiel Week, which concludes on Sunday evening. Last year's event drew an estimated 170,000 attendees.

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In total, there were 700 to 800 boats on the fjord for the anniversary parade.