Antwerp draws over half a million visitors to Tall Ships Races

Antwerp celebrated a successful Tall Ships Races event, drawing more than half a million visitors to the city. From Friday, the public could explore over 30 sailing ships docked along the Scheldt quays and in the docks. Complementary activities, including live concerts and fireworks, also proved popular.

This marked the 70th edition of the Tall Ships Races, an international competition where young people sail for a month between European cities. Antwerp served as a stopover for the eighth time. "For four days, the Scheldt brought people together: Antwerp residents, visitors from home and abroad, and crews from all corners of the world, just as our river has done for centuries," said Mayor Els van Doesburg. "I am particularly proud of everyone who made this edition an unforgettable public festival again."

The city reported over 500,000 attendees, with both the historic ships and the surrounding activities receiving high praise. "The absolute highlight for me was the Crew Parade, where the enthusiasm, energy, and friendship between young people from all over the world vibrated through the streets," stated Johan Klaps, alderman for Port and Economy. "That is precisely what The Tall Ships Races stand for: connecting people across borders and bringing Antwerp's maritime DNA to life."

The races involve three different legs between Aarhus, Denmark; Harlingen, Netherlands; Antwerp; Stavanger, Norway; and Aalborg, Denmark. Ship crews must comprise at least 50% young people aged 15 to 25. The leg from Harlingen to Antwerp saw 34 ships from 13 countries participate, with 43 Antwerp youths sailing towards their home port. Many residents gathered for the "Sail Out" to wave goodbye as the ships departed for the next race to Stavanger, Norway, with 89 Antwerp trainees on board.