The Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge 2009 has received the royal seal of approval.

Queen Elizabeth II and the King of Spain, Juan Carlos, have both sent messages of goodwill to Tall Ships Bermuda for the Island's role in the transatlantic race.

Bermuda is to be a major port in the challenge, in which tall ships from more than a dozen countries will take to the high seas.

In a letter to Tall Ships Bermuda, Queen Elizabeth II also praised the Island's 400th anniversary of permanent settlement.

The letter from Buckingham Palace states: "Crossing the Atlantic Ocean has always presented a formidable challenge to sailors throughout the ages.

"The achievement of the first Atlantic navigators, who succeeded in traversing that tremendous expanse between the Old World and the New, continues to shape and influence our own world even today.

"Recently, we reflected on the 400th anniversary of the foundation of Jamestown, in Virginia, by the first English settlers in North America. 2009 marks a similar milestone in the history of Bermuda.

"It is particularly fitting that the 2009 Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge Race will visit Bermuda in this important anniversary year.

"I send my good wishes to all who take part in the race, and hope that every participant will experience for themselves something of the spirit, ingenuity and resolve demonstrated by the Atlantic sailors who have gone before them."

King Juan Carlos said he considers the aim of the transatlantic regatta, that of training young sailors, extremely important for training ships.

In his message King Carlos sends his cordial greetings to all the participants, both to encourage them and to wish the race success.

The US Senate and House of Representatives meanwhile, said it "encourages all citizens of the United States and of nations around the world to join in the celebration of Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge 2009 and in the character building and educational experience that it represents for youth of all nations".

The endorsements from heads of state and the US government reflect the international importance of the Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge 2009, according to Tall Ships Bermuda chairman John Wadson.

He said: "We are thrilled to have received these endorsements. Her Majesty is Head of State for Bermuda, Halifax and Belfast three of the seven ports participating in this signature event.

"As Her Majesty has indicated, crossing the Atlantic Ocean has always been a formidable challenge and that's why Tall Ships Bermuda is excited to offer sail training berths to Bermuda's young people aged between 15 and 30.

"As sail trainees, not only will they get a taste of how Bermuda started all those years ago, but they will interact with other young people from various social, cultural and racial backgrounds.

"They will gain self-confidence, acceptance of personal responsibility, learn about teamwork, find their hidden strengths and talents all while confronting the demanding physical and emotional challenges of life at sea.

"It truly is a fitting way to bring the entire community together in a spirit of celebration and camaraderie."

Bermuda is one of seven host ports for the Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge 2009, the others being Vigo, Spain; Tenerife; Charleston, South Carolina; Boston; Halifax, Nova Scotia; and Belfast, Northern Ireland.

The race starts in Vigo on March 3 and Bermuda's Tall Ship Festival will take place from 11-15 June.

Tall Ships Bermuda is now seeking sponsors to fund trainees plus volunteers to assist in the festival.

For more information log onto: www.tallshipsbermuda.com or email: info@tallshipsbermuda.bm

Alternatively, visit the Tall Ships Office, LP Gutteridge Building, 34 Par-La-Ville Road, Hamilton, or telephone 292-2238.