The countdown is on for The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen 2025, with just 500 days to go until the city hosts its most significant event in decades.
The Tall Ships Races is the largest free family event in Europe and returns to Aberdeen after 28 years, expecting to draw 400,000 visits and 50 Tall Ships from across the globe from 19 - 22 July 2025. The North Harbour at Port of Aberdeen, including Upper Dock and Regent Quay, will transform from an energy hub into a world-class event space.
"It will be a truly international experience that will make a huge impact for the good of the city and region."
Councillor Martin Greig
Aberdeen City Council
The four-day world famous sailing extravaganza begins on 19 July with the fleet’s arrival and opening ceremony. The city centre will buzz with more than 1,500 sailors joining the international crew parade the next day, featuring live music, dance, and theatre.
The ships set sail for Kristiansand, Norway, on the 22nd of July. This departure will be marked by a parade of sail along the beach esplanade, offering a memorable farewell.
Throughout the festival, visitors can board the magnificent Tall Ships and enjoy free family entertainment. The big stage programme will include a diverse mix of local and Scottish talent, from sea shanties and choirs to street performers, maritime themed exhibitions, artists, crew and navy bands, and visiting headline acts.
More than 100 locals aged 15 - 25 will embark on a life changing sailing journey as sail trainees aboard a Tall Ship. Applications will open later this year for young people from all walks of life to take part in this amazing opportunity. There is particular focus on engaging those from priority regeneration areas and funding for traineeships will be available. No experience is necessary to join this adventure that promises new freedom, friendships, skills, and unforgettable memories.
Volunteers are essential to delivering a successful festival and giving the international crews a warm Aberdeen welcome. The inclusive, diverse, and accessible volunteer programme will have a role to suit everyone including liaison officers and spectator services, event operations and transport coordinators, and much more. Applications open later this year, with volunteers matched to roles in January 2025.
Support from the business community is key to staging the best event possible in Aberdeen and sponsorship packages are now available, offering unique exposure, engagement, and VIP experiences. A variety of packages are available to fit any budget, from Host Port Sponsor to Trainee Funders, each contributing to a legacy event with a lasting impact on Aberdeen and beyond.
Businesses can find out more about the sponsorship packages by contacting Leanne Sinclair, Sales & Sponsorship Coordinator for Mearns & Gill, at leanne.sinclair@mearns-gill.com or calling 01224 646311.
More than 350 individuals and businesses have already registered their interest online to support The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen 2025 at www.tallshipsaberdeen.com. Prospective trainees, volunteers, sponsors, commercial traders, artists, musicians, and creatives are encouraged to join online today.
Councillor Martin Greig, Aberdeen City Council, said: “Hosting The Tall Ships Race is a great opportunity for everyone in Aberdeen to celebrate our maritime heritage. The event will bring together people of all ages and backgrounds in an amazing festival of the sea. It will be a truly international experience that will make a huge impact for the good on the city and region. Preparations are well underway and much work has been planned to make sure that all can enjoy this splendid experience.”
“It's a privilege to showcase the capabilities of Port of Aberdeen and contribute to this massive opportunity for the city and its people.”
Bob Sanguinetti
CEO, Port of Aberdeen
Bob Sanguinetti, CEO, Port of Aberdeen, said: “As the host location for The Tall Ships Races, we’re gearing up to provide a spectacular backdrop and world-class facilities for this historic event. It’s a privilege to showcase the capabilities of Port of Aberdeen and contribute to this massive opportunity for the city and its people.”
Adrian Watson, CEO, Aberdeen Inspired, said: “The Tall Ships Races represent a pivotal moment for Aberdeen, uniting the city in celebration and anticipation. Aberdeen Inspired is thrilled to partner in bringing this global spectacle to our doorstep, promising an unforgettable experience for visitors and residents alike. We know the arrival of the Tall Ships will offer a welcome major boost for our city centre businesses, including all our fantastic restaurants, bars, shops and other attractions.”
