Volvo Ocean Race- Camper does sail-by of historic London Bridge

by Sail-World on 6 Sep 2011
Camper, Emirates Team New Zealand entry in the Volvo Ocean Race has marked its arrival in Europe with a sail-by of London’s historic Tower Bridge.

The trip up the Thames and sail through of Tower Bridge by the Volvo 70 yacht continues a tradition began by earlier Kiwi entries in the Volvo Ocean Race, and its predecessor the Whitbread Round the World Race, such as Lion New Zealand and New Zealand Endeavour.

Skipper Chris Nicholson said it was a real honour to bring Camper into the heart of London.

'Today effectively marks the beginning of our build-up campaign in Europe ahead of the start of the race on November 5 in Alicante, Spain.

'It’s a great way to thank our supporters and sponsors while continuing an iconic Kiwi Volvo tradition.'

Camper’s time in London however, was brief and the yacht has already headed back down river bound for France and Spain, where the build-up programme and further race preparation will continue.

Emirates Team New Zealand managing director Grant Dalton, a veteran of seven round-the-world races, was delighted to see Camper carrying on the tradition.

'This is a great way to mark Camper’s arrival in Europe and the beginning of the final build-up phase prior to the start of the race.

'I know what a thrill it is to sail through the Tower Bridge and I’m glad that the Camper boys could experience it as well.'
Camper arrived in the UK in late August after being shipped to Felixstowe from New Zealand by Maersk Lines.