Kieler Woche sailing festival opens with AIDA as a sponsor

Trio of AIDA ships

AIDAaura docked at Kiel's Ostseekai cruise terminal early Saturday, the opening day of Kieler Woche. Three other ships will call Kiel during the festivities, which continue until June 24.

AIDA's sponsorship involves providing various attractions on board and ashore. The line established the new 'AIDA Urlaubswelt' (Aida Vacation World) at the Kiellinie festival mall, where cruise offers are presented along with an AIDAperla show cabin. AIDA is also sponsoring four city-center video walls that display the yacht regattas. On Kieler Woche's closing day AIDA will sponsor the traditional 11 p.m. fireworks. As part of the fireworks choreography, AIDAbella will be illuminated with colored lights.

Ship tours

Apart from today's visit of AIDAaura, AIDAbella will call this Sunday and June 24, AIDAcara this Sunday and AIDAluna on June 24. Three-hour guided tours on board complete with buffet lunch are offered for €49 euros (free for children up 15). While AIDAluna is in port June 24, AIDA Cruises is also selling a 'Wellness Day' to visitors which includes access to the AIDA Body & Soul Spa for €69. A fundraiser for the 'Good for Kids' initiative is also taking place, with an AIDA cruise as the main prize.

Crew and staff recruitment

Apart from attracting new passengers, AIDA also hopes to recruit crew and shoreside staff through its Kieler Woche sponsorship. A team is on site to talk to those interested in career opportunities with the Rostock-based operator.

Kieler Woche, held in late June, is the world's largest sailing event. First held in 1882, it typically attracts 2,000 yachts and ships, some 5,000 yachtsmen and sailors along with about three million visitors annually.