Dutch Race of the Classics will race from Rotterdam to Ipswich, featuring students and businesses in historic ships

A fleet of Dutch racers will seek Suffolk on their horizons as one of the largest student sailing events in Europe weighs anchor.

Involving universities or businesses from cities across The Netherlands, The Race of the Classics would see hundreds of sea-farers race to from Rotterdam to Ipswich next month.

From April 17 to 23, nine crews will man classic or historic ships in an event designed to preserve the country's North Sea sailing heritage.

They estimated they will arrive in Ipswich on April 18 or 19.

One team of hopefuls is from Haagse Hogeschool, based in The Hague.

Its team of 24 will attempt to make the trip in The Zephyr, a traditional schooner.

A spokeswoman for the school revealed the event is always preceded by a 'spectacular opening celebration'.

She said: "The route we sail depends on the wind, so in case of bad weather, we may have to detour.

"However, the arrival of the ships in the port of Ipswich will be an eye-catching display for local people in and around Ipswich to watch."

Last year the crews did not make it to England due to Covid-19 restrictions, so an alternate route was used where they sailed along the coast of The Netherlands towards the Wadden Islands, and back.

The main race will see teams try to race to The Port of Ipswich the fastest.

However, other objectives are sprinkled in, which could include sailing the most sea-miles in a defined area or a time trial.

The spokeswoman added: "As all the ships are classical and traditional ships, is the workload quite intensive and the enthusiastic students will be aided by skippers and seamen."

The Race of the Classics first began in 1989.

After arriving in Ipswich, crews will return to The Netherlands, where a closing party will be held in Amsterdam.

The event is typically held annually, and sees crews different ships used each year.