Young people across Aberdeen are being encouraged to have the adventure of a lifetime and apply to become sail trainees during this years’ Tall Ships Races.
As part of the legacy from The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen 2025, this year’s sail trainee programme is recruiting 12 fully funded and four self-funded sail trainees to take part in this year’s Tall Ships Races, sailing aboard the historic vessel Swan.
Julie Wood, Aberdeen City Council’s Chief Officer for City Development and Regeneration, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to get involved and embark on an exciting and unique adventure.
“Our sail trainees last year showed a great deal of enthusiasm and commitment, and I encourage anyone who wants to learn new skills and make lasting friendships to get involved.”
Blair MacAskill, who participated in the 2025 Races, said: "The Tall Ships Races pushed me out of my comfort zone and opened doors I didn’t know existed. It’s an incredible experience for any young person seeking a once in a lifetime adventure where you will learn new skills, make lasting friendships, and be part of one of the most welcoming communities"
Bob Sanguinetti DL, CEO, Port of Aberdeen, said: "One of the highlights of hosting The Tall Ships Races was seeing so many local young people stepping aboard these historic ships and joining the crews for incredible journeys. Port of Aberdeen is proud to support this next group of sail trainees and I would encourage any young person who's even slightly curious to put their name forward - this really could be a life-changing experience."
Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said: “One of the most tangible legacies of the Tall Ships Races Aberdeen is the impact being a sail trainee had on the young people who joined the crew of these beautiful ships, sailing to or from their home port of Aberdeen. So many have spoken about it being a truly life-changing experience.
“I am delighted this opportunity is being extended to young people in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire again for 2026. This is a call to adventure that I hope many of our next generation will answer.”
Young people aged 15 to 25 who live within an AB postcode are eligible to apply, and no previous sailing experience is required.
Last year, 244 young people from across the north east joined the Tall Ships Races as sail trainees, marking the highest number of trainees from a host port.
Successful applicants will become part of the Swan’s crew and take part in a leg of the 2026 Tall Ships Races, gaining handson sailing experience and developing confidence, teamwork and life skills.
Trainees will either set sail from Aberdeen to join the Cruise in Company leg in Harlingen, sailing onward to Antwerp, or join Race 2 from Antwerp to Stavanger.
The Swan was built and launched in Shetland in 1900 and has since been restored to its former glory by a dedicated team of volunteers, previously visiting Aberdeen during the 2025 Tall Ships Races.
The 2026 Tall Ships Races will depart from Aarhus (Denmark), before racing to Harlingen (Netherlands), Antwerp (Belgium), Stavanger (Norway) and finishing in Aalborg (Denmark).
Applications are open until Thursday 16 April. Applicants must be available to take part from 29 June to 13 July.
Anyone interested in applying should email TravelTrade@aberdeencity.gov.uk.
