Sail Aboard

The Tall Ships Races are organised by Sail Training International with the fundamental aim to provide sail training experiences for young people aged 15 to 25. Experiences are also available on some legs for those over 25.

The organisation are proud of their key purpose being “the development and education of young people through Sail Training experiences, regardless of nationality, religion, gender or social background. Sail Training offers life changing experiences for young people around the world, helping young people to grow in confidence, rise to challenges, overcome fears and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime.”

It is a truly remarkable experience and Shetland Tall Ships Ltd work closely with Sail Training Shetland in order to recruit and fund sail trainees to join Tall Ships on different legs of the race.

If you are aged between 15 and 25 and feel this would be something which would interest you, visit the Sail Training Shetland website for more information and details of the next opportunity to sign up.

All expenses and travel arrangement are covered for trainees selected to take part.

Over 25 or looking to self-fund your space?

Ships can have a percentage of trainees aged over 25 onboard for The Tall Ships Races and the larger ones may have more places available. Such places need to be self-funded and bookings made directly with your chosen ship. Like all independent travel, you will be responsible for your travel insurance and getting to and from your placement.

This experience is equally rewarding and the same as it is for the young trainees in terms of the expectation to work as part of the crew and the opportunity to develop skills and international friendships.

For the Cruise in Company leg between Fredrikstad and Lerwick, some ships are taking direct bookings for those over 25. See links below. You can see a full list of the ships coming to Lerwick HERE.