In his welcoming speech, Flotilla Admiral Meyer emphasised that Kiel Week was once again an outstanding event. Despite a disruptive action by activists, during which the frigate "Bayern" was smeared with paint, the success of Kiel Week could not be tarnished. The Admiral expressly thanked the representative of the Kiel police for the experienced and professional handling of the incident. The police received great applause from the audience for their quick reaction.

Meyer also emphasised that an event as large as Kiel Week is only possible thanks to the commitment of many organisations involved. He thanked the Naval NCO School, whose servicemen and women always represent the navy excellently at official events. He also expressed his thanks to the Bundeswehr Service Centre for its logistical support, as well as to the Medical Supply Centre for its medical care and to the naval battalion for its security.

The flotilla admiral expressed his regret that due to the current security situation, units from friendly NATO partners were unable to take part in Kieler Woche to the usual extent this year. Instead, they had to shorten their stay considerably.

The parade was led by the GORCH FOCK - the spectacle was impressive from the moment it left the naval base in Kiel. The crew stood proudly on the yards and prepared to hoist the sails. At 11.00 a.m. on the dot, all the sails were set and the GORCH FOCK led the windjammer parade under "full sail" in the best wind and sunshine. The German Navy training ship sailed majestically through the Kiel Fjord towards the Laboe Naval Memorial - an impressive display of maritime strength and tradition.