The first Tall Ships’ Race was held in 1956. The original idea had been to bring together the last of the world’s sail training ships in a final farewell to the age of sail, while also bringing together the youth of the world’s seafaring people in friendly competition. However, this race proved so popular that they are still going strong today. The races are currently supported (2004 - 2009) by the City, Port and Province of Antwerp. Each year between 70 and 100 vessels from 15-20 countries, crewed by some 5-6,000 young people from over 30 countries worldwide, take part in this unique event that combines four days of activities in each port with racing or cruising-in-company between ports. During the race series the young crews get the chance to gain experience by sailing with their contemporaries from other countries while facing the physical and emotional challenges that only the ocean can provide.
A ‘Tall Ship’ is not necessarily one of the big square-riggers Entry is open to any mono-hull sailing vessel of more than 9.14m water line length, provided that at least 50 percent of the crew are aged between 15-25 years and that the vessel meets Sail Training International’s safety equipment requirements. A race series, timed to coincide with school holidays in July and August, last between four and six weeks and usually include two races separated by a cruise in company. Each port organises a programme of social events for the crews, which usually includes a Captains’ dinner, sporting and cultural activities and a party for the young trainees. The final day in port includes a crew parade through the streets and a prize-giving. The arrival of the ships, berthing, undocking and the Parade of Sail are all handled by each port’s harbourmaster, while a system of volunteer liaison officers, undertaken by local people, look after each vessel and its crew.
Sail Training International Friendship Trophy.
The principle award at the end of each race series is the Sail Training International Friendship Trophy. This trophy epitomises the objective of the races. It is awarded to the vessel which, in the opinion of the entire race fleet, has done most to help further international understanding and friendship during the races Future Races. The Tall Ships’ Races are held every summer in European waters. Sail Training International and its member organisations also organise races and events elsewhere in the world and at other times of the year. Sail Training International’s member organisation in the US organises a summer series called The Tall Ships Challenge, and member organisations in Europe organise smaller events, usually for the smaller vessels in the fleet.
