Tall Ship Races 2024 in Helsinki

The Tall Ships Races 2024 will grace the picturesque city of Helsinki from 4 to 7 July 2024. This prestigious annual sailing event features large traditional sailing vessels and promises to be an unforgettable experience for locals and visitors alike. 

In this article we have collected you great tips how to get the most of the event! Check the map of the best spots to see the vessels and read more about the additional programme. 

What is The Tall Ships Races?

The Tall Ships Races is a series of international sailing races featuring traditionally rigged sailing training vessels. These races bring together sailing enthusiasts from around the world to compete and celebrate the rich maritime heritage. The event is designed to promote international friendship and provide training opportunities for young people in the art of sailing.

The first Tall Ships Race was held in 1956. It involved 20 of the world's remaining large sailing vessels. Originally intended as a farewell to the era of the great sailing ships, the public interest in the event was so great that the organisers formed the Sail Training International Association to plan future events.

Tip!
Are you a sailing enthusiast? Check out Stromma’s cruises in Helsinki archipelago!

The Best Spots to Watch the Tall Ships Races

More than 50 impressive vessels will arrive in the area of Helsinki's Market square, Eteläsatama, Katajanokka, Pohjoisranta and Kanavaranta. Half a million visitors are expected.

The biggest and most spectacular boats come to Helsinki from as far away as South America. They include the Brazilian Cisne Branco, the Ecuadorian Guayas and the Polish A-class ships Fryederyk Chopin, Kapitan Glowacki, Pogoria and the almost 100 metre long Dar Mlodziezy.

To see the Tall Ship Races 2024 in all its glory, consider these prime viewing locations:

1. Uspenski Cathedral: Perched on a hill, this Russian Orthodox cathedral offers panoramic views of the harbor and the ships. A perfect spot for photography, too.
2. SkyWheel Helsinki: You can see the ships from a bird's-eye view from the SkyWheel Helsinki ferris wheel located next to Kauppatori and Allas Sea Pool. At the same time, you can gaze at the sea, towards Suomenlinna or towards the skyscrapers of Kalasatama.
3. Stromma cruises: All of our cruises depart from the Market Square, which means some of our cruises go right past the magnificent ships when they are anchored in Eteläsatama.

Tip!
Stromma’s Helsinki City Highlights Cruise follows the most optimal route for the Tall Ships Races. At the same time, you can enjoy the wonderful skyline of Helsinki, the archipelago and the magnificent sailing ships from the sea. 

Additional programme and activities during the event

During the Tall Ships Races 2024 event, Helsinki will come alive with a vibrant array of events and activities.

The programme has a wide range of varied and interesting activities for all age groups. Here are a few examples:

• Live music
• Speeches and panel discussions on the Baltic Sea
• A DJ workshop for young people
• Children's Park in Katajanokka, where e.g. the Skidit disco and various workshops take place.
• Versatile restaurant services

More than 1,200 young sailors will arrive in Helsinki. There will be sports competitions, city tours and a spectacular crew parade from the Senate Square along Aleksanterinkatu and Mannerheimintie streets to Lasipalatsi.

Tip!
Get a Helsinki Card and travel free on public transport during the Tall Ships Races. As a large number of people are expected to attend the event, public transport is the most convenient way to get around and see the many events and the amazing ships. The Helsinki Card is also your ticket for the Hop On-Hop Off tour by bus as well as for the sightseeing cruises City Highlights Cruise and Beautiful Canal Cruise, so it's a convenient way to enjoy the city both on land and at sea!

Remember to check the official event schedule for specific race times and additional activities (to be published in May). Whether you're a maritime enthusiast or just looking for an unforgettable experience, the Tall Ships Races in Helsinki will be an event to remember!

Photos: Lauri Rotko/Helsinki Partners