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The Tall Ships Races Kristiansand 2025: a grand seafaring celebration The full-rigged ship Sørlandet surrounded by recreational boats. Photo: Tor Erik Schrøder
This summer, Kristiansand will once again host The Tall Ships Races. The spectacular event will bring majestic tall ships from around the world to the city's harbour, offering an unforgettable experience. It promises to be a grand celebration blending adventure, coastal history, and cultural exchange into one remarkable festivity. By Celina Tran
In 1956, the very first Tall Ships sail training race set off from Torbay in the UK to Lisbon in Portugal. The event, which was to be a celebration of the world’s remaining Class A Tall Ships, was such a spectacle that the Sail Training International Committee decided to make it a biennial event to encourage friendly competition and community amongst young seafarers.
the Tall Ships concept, which focuses on training young people from diverse backgrounds aged 15 to 25. These young sailors make up at least 50 per cent of the crew on each ship, providing a unique chance for hands-on sail training. “Many consider it a life changing experience where new friendships are formed
“Today, the regatta is an annual event that offers young people the chance to join a crew of sailors and develop their sailing skills through practical training,” says Marianne Osmundsen Tronstad, project manager at Tall Ship Races Kristiansand 2025. Sail Training International, the non-profit organisation behind the event, owns 52 | Issue 178 |
May 2025
Photo: Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park
and unforgettable memories are made. The young sailors gain valuable learning and bonding opportunities unlocking hidden strengths and becoming part of something much bigger than themselves. During the sail training adventure, all these young people will be sleeping in hammocks, working, and eating together – all hands on deck,” says Tronstad. While The Tall Ships Races has been an international tradition since 1956, this will be Kristiansand’s third time hosting the event. The city previously welcomed the race in 2010 and 2015, and aims to be even bigger and better in 2025. Ships come from all over Europe, and beyond – from Mexico to Oman – making the event a truly global affair. “Being chosen as a host city is an honour, and it brings immense value to our local community. Not only do we get to witness these magnificent ships, but the event also serves as a platform for cultural exchange across the borders,” says assistant project manager Tore Løvland.