The Sail Training International Conference 2026 – Highlights and Special Moments
The Sail Training International Conference 2026 wrapped up in Bordeaux after two days of collaboration, insight, and celebration for the global sail training community. Held on 23-24 January 2026 at the Palais des Congrès de Bordeaux, this year’s event brought together 228 Tall Ship owners and operators, sail training organisations, host port representatives, and maritime professionals from across 27 different countries.
The conference programme offered a balance of plenary sessions and interactive break-out discussions, ensuring that knowledge sharing and professional networking remained at the heart of the event. Delegates explored future‑focused themes, from operational best practices to sustainability and youth development, reinforcing the conference’s reputation as the central meeting point for the international sail training sector.
On 22 January, pre‑conference meetings for both the Youth Council and Ships Council took place at the Musée Mer Marine de Bordeaux, followed by an evening Welcome Reception hosted by Bordeaux Métropole and the Conseil Interprofessionnel des Vins de Bordeaux. Delegates enjoyed private access to the museum’s maritime collection, culminating in a spectacular live drone show by Dronisos.
The conference concluded in style with a Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony at the Pullman Bordeaux Lac on 24 January. The celebration brought the international community together to honour achievements across the sail training world.
This year’s conference also set an enthusiastic tone for the upcoming Tall Ships Races 2026, which will mark 70 years of the iconic event. Sail Training International expressed excitement about continuing the momentum into this milestone year, inviting delegates and organisations to join the celebrations across participating host ports.
