The Summer Sun Shines on the Crew Parade in Aarhus

Sunshine and blue skies provided the ideal setting for the first crew parade of the 2026 Tall Ships Races series.

Trainees and crew members from around the world, paraded through the streets of Aarhus, led by a marching band. Thousands of local residents, families, and visitors lined the route, to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and celebrate the start of the event.

The parade began at the Dokk1 cultural centre and made its way along Sønder Allé and Søndergade through Aarhus’ shopping district. The procession then passed the Aarhus Cathedral before arriving at the main stage at Herman Sallings Plads.

Following the parade, prizes were awarded by Sail Training International and the Aarhus event team.

The winners were:

Special Prize – Sport (Beach Volleyball)
– Pink Panthers

Special Prize – Youth Engagement
– Atlantica (Sweden)

Oldest Vessel in the Fleet (on arrival)
– Stratsraad Lehmkuhl (Norway)

Vessel Furthest from Home (on arrival)
– Pascual Flores (Spain)

Youngest Captain (on arrival)
– Jakub Grubba (25 Years Old – Poland)

Youngest Crew (on arrival)
– Atlantica (Sweden)

Most International Crew (on arrival)
– Stratsraad Lehmkuhl (20 Nationalities – Norway)

Best in the Crew Parade – Runner Up
– Pogoria (Poland)

Best in the Crew Parade
– Fryderyk Chopin (Poland)