A grey and overcast start to the day didn’t dampen any spirits in Lerwick, on the fourth stop of The Tall Ships Races 2023…
From early morning, crowds gathered along Albert Wharf and on Victoria Pier to welcome the tall ships fleet as they arrived, marking the beginning of the much-awaited visit of The Tall Ships Races 2023 to the historic port town. The cloudy conditions cleared by the early afternoon, setting the stage for a day of excitement and celebrations.
The crews and trainees wasted no time in exploring Lerwick once they arrived, with a quick change and a chance to familiarise themselves with the port and town before the Crew Parade and Prize Giving Ceremony. This is a notable change to the usual in-port schedule to help with crew changes to and from the picturesque, but somewhat remote, Shetland Islands.
Looking ahead to the next few days, the event program promises an exciting line-up of activities for crews and visitors alike. Alexandra Wharf will host a thrilling Treasure Hunt, as well as ropework and sail making sessions, providing a hands-on taste of the maritime life. To add to the entertainment there’ll also be roller discos, cultural visits and a spectacular fireworks display on Friday night.
About The Tall Ships Races 2023
The Tall Ships Races 2023 will see the international fleet of Tall Ships and Small Ships return to Den Helder, Hartlepool, Fredrikstad, Lerwick and Arendal from 29 June to 6 August.
With four of the five Host Ports having already hosted the stunning Tall Ships fleet, we are excited to return to old friends and visit new frontiers for some exhilarating sailing, stunning cruises and celebrations across Northwest Europe.
As with every edition of The Tall Ships Races, the series will offer a range of sailing experiences for trainees and crews. The Race Committee will look at waypoint options to provide shorter and longer races for the fleet that will require a mixture of tactical skill and exhilarating speed to conquer.
