Antwerp Welcomes the Tall Ships Races: A Maritime Spectacle
Antwerp is preparing to host the 70th edition of The Tall Ships Races from 11 to 14 July 2026, with 36 majestic sailing vessels from 13 countries docking along the Scheldt quays. The city, described as “all hands on deck” by its harbor master, expects approximately 600,000 visitors for what organizers are calling one of the world’s most prestigious maritime events.
This marks the eighth time Antwerp has served as a stopover for the races, a relationship that has deepened to the point where the city now holds the unique status of “Anchor Port” — the first city to receive this designation, guaranteeing the races return every four years through at least 2030.
A History of Mutual Affection
The bond between Antwerp and The Tall Ships Races runs deep. According to VRT NWS, when main sponsor Cutty Sark ended its support in 2003, the races faced potential collapse. Antwerp — together with the port and province — stepped in, providing sufficient support from 2004 to 2010 to enable Sail Training International (STI) to make a fresh start.
“Without Antwerp, the organization might not have survived,” said Nathalie Beloso, Director of Events for the City of Antwerp. “We have a very rich maritime history and as a city we find it important to emphasize that.”
This rescue led to the creation of the Anchor Port concept, cementing Antwerp’s role as a permanent host. Alderman for Tourism Koen Kennis noted that “Antwerp and The Tall Ships Races share a story of mutual affection.”
The Fleet and the Festival
The fleet includes 13 Class A vessels — the largest “cathedrals of the sea” — alongside 23 ships in smaller classes. Belgian entries such as T/S Rupel, Saeftinghe, and Patricia will be among the local favorites, joined by returning Dutch vessels and Norwegian ships making their first Antwerp appearance since 2016.
Mayor Els van Doesburg captured the spirit of the event: “For centuries, the Scheldt has connected Antwerp with the rest of the world. During The Tall Ships Races, that rich maritime history literally sails into our city.”
Three festival zones at Schengenplein, Steenplein, and the Scheldt Quays will host live entertainment, including performances by Average Rob, DJ Licious, and Regi. The program features a Crew Parade on Sunday, a fireworks display at 22:15, and ship visits throughout the weekend.
Youth at the Heart of the Races
A defining feature of The Tall Ships Races is its focus on youth development. At least 50 percent of each ship’s crew must be aged 15 to 25. A recruitment campaign by the city and port attracted 132 young Antwerp residents to participate as trainees.
Captain Jan Vandenborne, sailing his 20th and final Tall Ships Race aboard the T/S Rupel, embodies the event’s social mission. His ship was originally built in the 1990s as a social project to combat youth unemployment in Boom. “The young people get to know themselves better on board and they are away from under the wings of their parents,” Vandenborne told VRT NWS. “Real international friendships are built between young people.”
The T/S Rupel continues to focus on disadvantaged youth, including those with behavioral problems or from difficult family situations. The ship operates with volunteers and only charges for basic costs like food.
Economic Impact and Sustainability
The event is expected to draw 600,000 visitors, generating significant economic activity for Antwerp’s hospitality and tourism sectors. Beloso compared the scale to the Tour de France: “The economic impact on our city is enormous.”
Sustainability features prominently in this year’s edition. Organizers have partnered with Equans to provide shore power, reducing reliance on onboard generators. Reusable cups and plates will minimize waste, and eco-friendly sanitation solutions are being tested. Wheelchair-accessible facilities, including a viewing platform, ensure the event is inclusive.
What’s Next
The Tall Ships Races route runs from Aarhus (Denmark) through Harlingen (Netherlands) to Antwerp, then continues to Stavanger (Norway) and Aalborg (Denmark). The Sail Out on Tuesday 14 July from 16:30 will mark the fleet’s departure.
As the city’s Harbor Master Walter Weijts put it: “It’s currently really all hands on deck.” With the Anchor Port status securing Antwerp’s place in the races for 2030 and beyond, this maritime tradition shows no signs of fading. The event not only celebrates Antwerp’s centuries-old connection to the sea but also invests in the next generation of sailors, fostering international friendship and personal growth on the open water.