Young Aberdonians will have the opportunity to experience life aboard a historic Scottish Tall Ship this summer. From 10 - 23 July, participants can join the crew of ‘Swan’ for taster sailing days departing from Port of Aberdeen.
These sailing adventures are open to individuals aged 15 - 25 living in an AB postcode – no sailing experience is required! Bookings will open on Eventbrite from 12 June 2024 and will include a fun training and information session.
Rebecca Owen, 19 from Banchory, sailed in The Tall Ships Races 2022 cruise in Company leg from Harlingen, Netherlands to Lowestoft, England. Rebecca said: “I was lucky enough to sail aboard Swan and made lifelong friends from all across the world. The crew were amazing and helped all the trainees have fun, learn new skills, and feel like an important part of the team."
Swan’s visit to Aberdeen comes ahead of The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen 2025, which will return to the city for the first time in nearly 30 years from 19 - 22 July 2025. The Tall Ships Races is the largest free family event in Europe and is expected to draw 400,000 visits and 50 Tall Ships from across the globe.
The world-renowned, sailing extravaganza will offer life-changing experiences for 100 young Aberdonians who will be recruited as Sail Trainees to sail aboard a Tall Ship from Dunkirk, France to Aberdeen, or from Aberdeen to Kristiansand, Norway.
Individuals can register their interest online to receive updates on how to book a taster sailing day on Swan and apply to become a Sail Trainee for the Tall Ships Races Aberdeen 2025.
Ann Baddeley, a member of the Tall Ships Aberdeen trainee working group, said: "This is an amazing opportunity for young people from across the North East to share the Tall Ships experience. It’s all about friendship, fun, and adventure and is open to people of all backgrounds and experience. We hope these taster days on Swan will help us to start finding our Sail Trainees for 2025.”
Built and launched in Shetland in 1900, Swan was one of the finest boats in the Scottish fishing fleet. It has been restored to its former glory by a dedicated team of volunteers and now offers sailing training experiences for young people.
Emma Miller, Community Links Officer, The Swan Trust, said: “The crew of Swan are really looking forward to working with young people from the Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire area this summer to introduce them to the personal, physical and career benefits of a sail training experience.
“The taster days are a great way to get a basic understanding of sailing techniques and to learn the importance of the teamwork and cooperation needed on a longer voyage. The Tall Ships Races are an incredible opportunity for international travel, and developing friendships and skills which will be an asset to those taking part for a lifetime."
Swan’s visit coincides with the inaugural year of the Festival of the Sea, which runs across the city from 15 - 28 July. More information on this exciting event will be shared by Aberdeen City Council in the weeks ahead.
