Tall Ships Aberdeen Makes History as First Host Port to Win Sultan Qaboos Trophy 2025

Huge congratulations to Tall Ships Aberdeen for being the winners of the prestigious Sultan Qaboos Trophy 2025.

It was a perfectly magical evening hosted in the Al Mirani Fort in Muscat by the Royal Navy of Oman which saw the presentation of this highest of recognitions in the sail training community. The award was presented to the winning team by His Highness Sayyid Harib Bin Thuwaini Al Said, in the presence of many distinguished guests.

‘Aberdeen was chosen for this award because they embraced the values that sit at the heart of the Sultan Qaboos Trophy: youth development, international friendship, and a genuine commitment to opening the world of sail training to all. They showed what is possible when a host port leans fully into the purpose – not just the spectacle – of The Tall Ships Races.

And tonight marks a milestone.

For the first time since the Trophy was established in 2011, it is being awarded to a host port team. A powerful message that when a city steps forward with vision, partnership, and heart, extraordinary things can happen.

To our friends and colleagues from Aberdeen – you set a new benchmark. Your work changed lives. You honoured the values of His late Majesty (Sultan Qaboos). And you reminded all of us what sail training is truly about.’

– James George, Chair of Trustee of Sail Training International

Relive the memories from The Tall Ships Races in Aberdeen 2025 HERE.