Antwerp, a vital port, hosts 70th Tall Ships Races

Antwerp is once again welcoming dozens of tall ships for the 70th edition of the Tall Ships Races, an event that has relied on the city's crucial support for its survival. This marks Antwerp's eighth time hosting the international sailing competition, which aims to introduce young people to the world of sailing.

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Without Antwerp, the organization might not have survived.

Since 2004, Antwerp has been a key partner for Sail Training International, the organization behind the races. After the main sponsor, The Cutty Sark, withdrew in 2003, Antwerp stepped in to provide essential support, preventing the organization from collapsing. Nathalie Beloso, the city's events director, stated that without Antwerp, the organization might not have survived. The city, its port, and the province offered enough backing for the event to continue.

This year, 35 tall ships will dock around the MAS museum and along the Scheldt quays. The races, which began in 1956, involve approximately a month of sailing between European host cities, with a crew requirement of at least 50% being young people aged 15 to 25. Antwerp successfully recruited 132 local youths to participate as trainees.

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We have a very rich maritime history and as a city, we find it important to emphasize that.

Beloso emphasized Antwerp's significance as a host city, citing its deep maritime history and its connection to the Scheldt River, which historically contributed to the city's prosperity. "Through the connection with the Scheldt, we are truly the heart of Europe," she explained, highlighting the city's pride in its maritime heritage. Port Master Walter Weijts echoed this sentiment, noting the extensive experience the city has gained in organizing such large-scale events.

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Through the connection with the Scheldt, we are truly the heart of Europe.