The Tall Ships Races

Welcome aboard the fascinating world of The Tall Ships Races, a magnificent celebration of maritime tradition and adventure that captivates millions around the globe. Whether you’re a sailing enthusiast, history buff, or traveller searching for unique experiences, The Tall Ships Races offers a splendid spectacle of grand vessels and spirited competition. In this blog, we’ll explore the history of this renowned festival, revisit some of its memorable moments, and give you a glimpse of what to expect in 2024. Additionally, we’ll provide some handy travel tips and hotel recommendations to ensure you have an unforgettable voyage.

The Tall Ships Races History

The Tall Ships Races were inaugurated in 1956 by the Sail Training International organisation to foster international friendship and youth development through sail training. The event began as a one-off race between Torbay, UK, and Lisbon, Portugal, featuring a fleet of tall ships. Its success and popularity turned it into an annual event that has grown in scale and prestige over the decades.

The races typically involve a series of European ports, each hosting the majestic ships and their crews for several days of festivities before they embark on their next leg of the journey. The event showcases the beauty and grandeur of traditional sailing ships and promotes cultural exchange and youth participation in maritime activities.

Highlights from Past Races

Over the years, The Tall Ships Races have been marked by numerous highlights:

Lisbon 2012: The event saw a spectacular gathering of ships and sailors from around the world, celebrating Portugal’s rich maritime heritage. The fleet’s departure was breathtaking, with ships lining the Tagus River under the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge.

Belfast 2015: Belfast welcomed the races with grand festivities, including parades, fireworks, and concerts. The city’s rich maritime history added a unique flavour to the event, and the participation of local youths in sail training was particularly noteworthy.

What to Expect in 2024

The Tall Ships Races 2024 promises to be another thrilling chapter in this maritime saga. This year, the event will take place in the scenic Baltic Sea, offering a unique and exciting route. Here’s what to look forward to:

Spectacular Vessels: Expect to see an impressive array of tall ships, including Class A square-riggers, sleek schooners, and modern sailing vessels, each showcasing the timeless art of sailing.

Youth Participation: Continuing the tradition, the races will emphasise youth participation, with young trainees from diverse backgrounds learning teamwork, leadership, and sailing skills.

Cultural Festivities: Each host port will organise cultural events, parades, live music, and fireworks, creating a festive atmosphere that celebrates maritime heritage and international friendship.

Participating in The Tall Ships Races as a Passenger

Participating in The Tall Ships Races as a passenger is an exciting and immersive way to experience the thrill of sailing on these majestic vessels. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a novice looking for an adventure, many tall ships welcome passengers and trainees for the journey.

There are several ways to get on board a Tall Ship

Sail Training International
As the organiser of The Tall Ships Races, Sail Training International works with various sail training vessels that take on trainees and passengers for the race legs. You can visit their website to find ships looking for crew members and trainees.

Individual Ships
Many participating tall ships offer berths to paying passengers. Each ship has its own requirements and costs, so it’s worth checking the websites of individual ships for details. Notable vessels like the Statsraad Lehmkuhl (Norway), Sedov (Russia), and Tenacious (UK) often take passengers on board.

Youth Participation
If you are between 15 and 25, you can join as a sail trainee. This programme is specifically designed to encourage youth involvement and provides an excellent opportunity to learn sailing skills and teamwork.

Passengers and trainees are typically expected to participate in the ship’s daily operations, such as handling sails, standing watch, and even helping with cooking and cleaning. This hands-on experience gives you a real taste of life at sea.

Before setting sail, you’ll receive training on safety procedures and basic sailing techniques. No prior sailing experience is usually required, as you’ll learn everything you need to know during the voyage.

Pack light but bring essentials such as waterproof clothing, non-slip shoes, sun protection, and any personal medications. Space on board is limited, so consider a soft duffel bag instead of a hard suitcase.

Travel Tips for The Tall Ships Races 2024

Getting There

Each host city is well-connected by air, rail, and road. For international travellers, it is convenient to fly into major nearby airports like Vilnius (for Klaipeda), Helsinki, Tallinn, or Warsaw (for Szczecin) and then take a train or bus.

Accommodation

Book your accommodation early, as the event attracts large crowds. Here are some top recommendations:

Klaipeda, Lithuania:

National Hotel: A charming hotel in the heart of Klaipeda, offering comfort and convenience.

Old Mill Hotel: Located near the harbour, this hotel provides picturesque views and easy access to the festivities.

Helsinki, Finland:

Hotel Kämp is a luxurious hotel with excellent amenities in the city centre.

Scandic Grand Marina: A mid-range option with beautiful harbour views and a short walk from key attractions.

Tallinn, Estonia:

Hotel Telegraaf: A historic hotel in the Old Town, offering luxury and a touch of history.

Nordic Hotel Forum: A contemporary hotel with modern facilities and easy access to the city’s sights.

Szczecin, Poland:

Radisson Blu Hotel Szczecin: A high-end hotel offering great amenities and a central location.

Hotel Zamek Centrum: A boutique hotel near the castle, blending historical charm with modern comfort.

Take time to explore each host city’s local attractions, such as museums, historical sites, and local cuisine. Guided tours can provide deeper insights into each port’s maritime heritage and culture. The weather can vary, so pack layers and prepare for sunshine and rain. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the ports and participating in festivities.

Whether you’re marvelling at the grand ships, participating in the festivities, or exploring the host cities, the 2024 races promise an unforgettable experience. Set sail for an adventure of a lifetime and immerse yourself in the rich maritime heritage of The Tall Ships Races!