Opportunity To Tour Ocean-Going Racing Yacht

Opportunity For Public To Tour Ocean-Going Racing Yacht

28 January 2004

BP New Zealand is inviting Wellingtonians to take the opportunity to tour the 72 foot racing yacht, BP Explorer, at Queen's Wharf on Sunday.

BP Explorer is in Wellington for a four week stopover as part of the Global Challenge yacht race. Under the Challenge, 12 identical racing yachts sail 32,000 miles around the world against the prevailing winds and currents, crewed fully by volunteers.

On Sunday January 30 there will be an open day on Queen's Wharf when the public can visit the boats and meet the crews. There will be entertainment and food available.

BP's Managing Director, Peter Griffiths, said the open day was a rare opportunity for the public to see first-hand what life would be like on an ocean-racing yacht.

"BP Explorer has already sailed from Portsmouth in the UK, through Buenos Aires to Wellington, with only the skipper an experienced sailor. Explorer is a lean and light racing yacht with only the bare basics for the crew.

"We are hoping families and members of the public will make the most of this opportunity and join us for a guided tour of BP Explorer," he said.

ENDS

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