Tall Ships Embark on Aberdeen Voyage as Countdown to 2025 Races Commences
The public is invited to step on board and explore the majestic Statsraad Lehmkuhl.
Three magnificent Tall Ships are set to grace Aberdeen's shores this summer.
The winner of the Tall Ships Races 2017 - TS Royalist – proudly serves as the flagship of the Sea Cadets and will receive a warm welcome at Port of Aberdeen on Thursday 13 July. Three young people from Sea Cadets - Aberdeen will join the TS Royalist's crew, embarking on a life-changing voyage on the purpose-built training ship that promises to nurture their seamanship, sailing, teamwork, and leadership skills.
As a ‘Cruise in Company Guest Harbour’ for the Tall Ships Races Lerwick 2023, Port of Aberdeen will welcome the Atlantica on Friday 21 July, followed closely by the Statsraad Lehmkuhl on Saturday 22 July.
The Atlantica, renowned for her distinctive sleek design and rich history, is a Swedish sail training vessel that has seen countless voyages around the globe since 1982. Accompanying her is the grand Statsraad Lehmkuhl, a stunning three-masted barque built in 1914 and hailing from Norway.
The public is invited to step on board and explore the Statsraad Lehmkuhl. Bookings are now open on Eventbrite, with one-hour windows available on Saturday 22 July for an up-close encounter with the ship's rich history, majestic presence, and a taste of authentic Norwegian hospitality. Only advance ticket holders will be able to access the quayside to board the ship.
An extensive social programme has been curated for the Cruise in Company crew and trainees, including access to attractions across Aberdeen which proudly exhibit the city's vibrant culture and heritage.
Port of Aberdeen is supporting two trainees, Rebecca Owen (19, Banchory) and Megan Downie (24, Northfield), through Sail Training Shetland, to embark on an awe-inspiring journey aboard the magnificent Atlantica, for the competitive race leg sailing from Aberdeen to Lerwick, Arendal, and Gothenburg.
The arrival of these Cruise in Company ships marks the two-year countdown until Aberdeen hosts The Tall Ships Races in 2025. Renowned as the largest free family event in Europe, The Tall Ships Races previously graced Aberdeen's shores in 1991 and 1997, filling the city with pride. In 2025, the event is expected to draw an attendance of up to half a million people, spanning from 19 to 22 July.
A call for individuals and businesses to register their interest in supporting the Tall Ships Races Aberdeen 2025 will be launched in the coming weeks, seeking volunteers, trainees, sponsors, deck hires, service providers and more.
“The arrival of the TS Royalist, Atlantica and Statsraad Lehmkuhl this month is a great curtain raiser for the Tall Ships Races return to Aberdeen in 2025 which has already given the city a major boost. As ever, I am sure local people will respond enthusiastically to the berthing of these three beautiful vessels in our port. Demand is sure to be high among Aberdonians and tourists to see the ships and set foot on board the Lehmkuhl.”
Bob Sanguinetti, Chief Executive, Port of Aberdeen, said: “We're incredibly proud to be hosting these illustrious Tall Ships and their crews. Aberdeen's maritime history runs deep and these events are a wonderful opportunity to celebrate it, inspiring a new generation of sailors.
“The Tall Ships Races provide incredible experiences for young people to develop, learn new skills and see the world. We are delighted to sponsor our trainees, Rebecca and Megan, as it underscores our commitment to creating opportunities and nurturing a diverse and dynamic maritime industry.”
Adrian Watson, Chief Executive Officer, Aberdeen Inspired, said: “Aberdeen Inspired is excited to see the arrival of the three splendid Tall Ships later this month and we look forward to supporting Port of Aberdeen and Aberdeen City Council with the associated social programme to welcome the visiting cadets and trainees, which will include a specially planned Nuart Tour to take in the world class street art around the city centre.
“We encourage the public to grab this free opportunity to visit Statsraad Lemkuhl and experience the incredible rich history of this beautiful three masted, 109 year old ship and enjoy an early taster of what the iconic The Tall Ships Races will bring to Aberdeen in 2025”.
Peter Ritchie, Commanding Officer – TS SCYLLA, Sea Cadets – Aberdeen, said: “It will be a great experience for the cadets from the Aberdeen unit to get to sea on the TS ROYALIST. I enjoyed the experience myself as a cadet on the previous ROYALIST, competing in the Tall Ships Race in 1998, and I know the cadets will have a fantastic time”.
Trainee Rebecca Owen, said: “I am really looking forward to sailing out of my home port, as well as seeing some beautiful coastlines from Atlantica. I am very grateful to have this opportunity to adventure as well as broaden my horizons and meet so many new people!”
Trainee Megan Downie, said: “I am so happy and excited to be a part of the Tall Ships Races in 2023. I just can't wait to get out on the water to just feel free! I am so thankful for this opportunity and grateful to Port of Aberdeen for giving me this chance to take part in this experience.”
Image Caption : The grand Statsraad Lehmkuhl is a stunning three-masted barque (credit – Ronnie Robertson)
