Since May 8, dozens of sailing boats are heading in the same direction which Samuel de Champlain took in 1608 when he sat sail to found Québec City 400 years ago. This great crossing of the Atlantic is without a doubt a noteworthy event of the 400th anniversary of Québec City. It would have been indeed unforgivable to forget to celebrate the link of the sea between Québec City and France.
Another important aspect related to the event is that all types of participants, from the most experienced sailors to the amateurs, have taken this occasion to visit us. This makes this crossing an incredible gathering of sea lovers and history enthusiasts who are making their way towards Québec City.
I suggest you to have a look at the website of this event entitled “Grande Traversée de l’Atlantique” at www.grandetraversee400.com. The website is entirely dedicated to the event and is full of interesting information on the crossing. You will even be able to follow the daily position of each sail boats on the Atlantic Ocean.
The boats will arrive in Québec City on the 24th of June. At that time, the sailors will have covered 3550 kilometres in 43 days. After so many efforts, I have no doubt that you will give them a warm welcome in the Old Port on the date of their arrival.
Jean-François Parenteau
