The Tall Ships Races 2029

Sail Training International is delighted to confirm that The Tall Ships Races will be returning to Northern Europe in 2029.

This race series will see The Tall Ships Races fleet being welcomed in five unique host ports including Arendal (28 June – 1 July), Delfzijl (6 – 9 July), Dunkirk (14 – 17 July), Esbjerg (25 – 28 July), and Oslo (3 August – 6 August). It will be a wonderful blend of experience and new energy, with Oslo and Delfzijl participating for the very first time.

Vanessa Mori, CEO of Sail Training International, comments; “In 2029, The Tall Ships Races is set to be an exciting and memorable race series, and we are very much looking forward to returning to some accomplished host ports whilst also welcoming new destinations hosting the Event for the very first time. The ships and crews can look forward to a combination of experience, enthusiasm and fresh energy, that new ports always bring to the event, creating a unique atmosphere that celebrates international friendship and the spirit of sail training.”

Speaking of The Tall Ships Races 2029 race series, Magda Makowska, Race Director at Sail Training International, comments; “We are delighted to unveil the 2029 route; a journey designed to bridge the gap between our storied maritime heritage and the thrill of new horizons. It’s set to begin with a competitive Race 1 from Arendal to Delfzijl, followed by a picturesque Cruise-in Company leg to Dunkirk. Here the fleet will have the opportunity to visit lesser-known harbours and anchorages, take part in crew exchanges and enjoy life on board at a more relaxed pace.

The fleet will then take on the challenge of a longer Race 2 from Dunkirk up to Esbjerg, before embarking on a majestic final leg to Oslo. This diverse course, offers our trainees a magnificent balance of thrilling North Sea racing and coastal exploration.”

The Tall Ships Races 2029 series will begin on 28th June and continue through to 6th August 2029. The event will welcome trainees and visitors from all over the world, who come together to travel, explore, grow and enjoy the celebrations. We look forward to seeing you there.

ABOUT THE HOST PORTS

ARENDAL – Norway

After hosting a fantastic first edition of The Tall Ships Races in 2023, we are delighted to be returning to this jewel in the Norwegian coast. Arendal was one of Norway’s and the world’s largest maritime towns in the 19th century and the whole city will look forward to celebrating their maritime heritage once again in 2029. We can’t wait to once again experience the warm hospitality from Arendal and her citizens.

DELFZIJL – The Netherlands

Delfzijl is very familiar with the tall ships fleet, having hosted seven editions of DelfSail, an event Sail Training International has endorsed over the years. We look forward to working much more closely with them to host their first edition of The Tall Ships Races 2029. We are sure that the fleet will very much look forward to returning to this welcoming harbour in The Netherlands.

DUNKERQUE – France

After a hugely successful debut in 2025, we are excited to return to Dunkirk in 2029. We are confident that this iconic city will once again welcome the tall ships fleet back to its town centre basins with open arms for a second unforgettable celebration. We look forward to building on the success of 2025 and can’t wait to see what this northern French city will have in store for the ships, crews, trainees and visitors in 2029.

ESBJERG – Denmark

The Tall Ships Races event in 2029 will be Esbjerg’s seventh time as a host port and the city is committed to once again offering the ships, their crews and trainees an unforgettable Danish welcome. The city council and the port authorities are committed to ensuring an unforgettable Event and we look forward to seeing their plans unfold.

OSLO – Norway

Oslo are looking forward to bringing The Tall Ships Races to Oslo for the very first time. As Norway’s capital and a vibrant fjord city, Oslo combines rich maritime heritage with modern, sustainable port development. The event will bring together youth, communities, and international visitors for a unique celebration of seamanship, culture, and shared experiences on the waterfront. Oslo very much look forward to working with the project team, confident that this port will deliver a remarkable grand finale for the tall ships fleet, visitors and local communities.