People flocked in their hundreds of thousands to see The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen 2025. Image - Kris Romanski/Sail Training International
Aberdeen Inspired is ready to pull out all the stops to bring The Tall Ships Races back to the Granite City within the next five years, said chief executive Adrian Watson.
“As far as I am concerned, it is now all hands on deck to see the Tall Ships back in Aberdeen within five years, bringing so much excitement, joy – and a boost for the local economy – in their wake,” said Adrian.
His comments came after it was revealed an official bid is already being prepared to have the spectacular event return as soon as 2029 or 2030 after the outstanding success of their visit last month, with Aberdeen Inspired, Aberdeen City Council, and Port of Aberdeen as host partners.
The Press and Journal today reports Councillor Martin Greig, chair of the Tall Ships Aberdeen committee, as saying preparations have started on the city’s case for a bid to Sail Training International – who run the Tall Ships Races – to bring the event back.
Adrian said: “Aberdeen Inspired has absolutely no hesitation in saying we will work tirelessly with our partners – Aberdeen City Council and Port of Aberdeen – to bring the Tall Ships Races back to the Granite City within the next five years.
The visit of the Tall Ships was a spectacular event and a spectacular success for Aberdeen. Image - Aberdeen Inspired
“When Aberdeen Inspired first approached Sail Training International to bring this glorious event here this year - after an absence of 28 years - we knew it would be good for the city and the wider region, not just in terms of a vibrant celebration but the economic and reputational boost the Tall Ships would bring.
“But what we saw in July far exceeded even our wildest expectations of the sheer joy and benefits this armada of opportunity brought to Aberdeen.
“There is no doubt the people – and business community – of the city want to see the Tall Ships return. We are ready to play our role in making that happen.
The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen 2025 attracted more than 400,000 visits during the glorious celebration which ran from July 19 to 22, bringing some 50 beautiful vessels to the city.
The event won praise for its vibrant carnival atmosphere, from crew parades to Quayside Concerts. While precise figures on the economic impact of the Tall Ships will not be available until later this year, local businesses reported a huge boost in customers, while Union Square reported record-breaking footfall.