The Tall Ships Races attract thousands of visitors each year. Knowing the best vantage points makes the experience easier. Here’s a guide to each host port from 2026, 2027 and 2028.
Tall Ship Viewing Tips
Arrive early to secure a clear view, especially for arrivals and departures. Choose a vantage point with an open sea aspect. Piers, beaches, headlands, harbour walls, and waterfront promenades all work.
Departure is the best time to see the full fleet. Ships leave together at the race start, so you will see them as a group under sail. Arrivals are staggered by performance. Fast vessels appear first and the rest follow. You will not see the whole fleet together again.
Spectator boats add another option. Many ports run pleasure craft trips to take you out around the fleet. These get you closer to the action. They fill quickly, so book well in advance if you can.
We will publish the best departure vantage points for each port. Use these with local notices and event guidance on the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see all the Tall Ships together?
At the start of the race when they depart. All ships leave at the same time, so that is the only moment you will see the full fleet together under sail.
Can I watch the Tall Ships while they are arriving?
Yes, but arrivals are staggered. The fastest ships arrive first and the rest follow, so you will not see them as a group as you do at departure.
Do pleasure boats offer spectator trips around the fleet?
Most host ports run spectator boats that take you close to the fleet. They book early, so reserve in advance if you can.
Where is the best place to watch the Tall Ships depart?
It varies by port. We will list the best departure vantage points for each location in the guide below.
Where are the Tall Ships in the UK.
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Tall Ships Races 2027
Where is the best place to view the Tall Ships in Bordeaux, France?
Event Dates: 10 July 2027
The Place de la Bourse riverside gives close views, the Pont de Pierre bridge offers elevated perspectives, and the Quai des Chartrons promenade is excellent for arrivals.
Where is the best place to view the Tall Ships in A Coruña, Spain?
Event Dates: 18 July 2027
The Paseo Marítimo waterfront is ideal for moorings, Monte de San Pedro park gives panoramic views of harbour and bay, and Castillo de San Antón provides close access.
Where is the best place to view the Tall Ships in Sines, Portugal?
Event Dates: 31 July 2027
Best locations include Praia Vasco da Gama beach for berthing views, the Forte do Revelim for elevated sightlines, and the Porto de Pesca harbour front for close-up access.
Tall Ships Races 2028
Where is the best place to view the Tall Ships in Kiel, Germany?
Event Dates: 24 June 2028
The Kiellinie waterfront for moored ships, Falckenstein Beach for harbour approaches, and the Hörn Bridge for close access.
Where is the best place to view the Tall Ships in Turku, Finland?
Event Dates: 8 July 2028
The Aura River quays give access to the fleet, Turku Castle grounds offer elevated views, and Samppalinna Hill provides panoramic perspectives.
Where is the best place to view the Tall Ships in Tallinn, Estonia?
Event Dates: 14 July 2028
The Linnahall terrace for harbour approaches, Toompea Hill for panoramas, and the Seaplane Harbour Museum area for close-up access.
Where is the best place to view the Tall Ships in Szczecin, Poland?
Event Dates: 24 July 2028
The Wały Chrobrego terraces overlook the Oder, Łasztownia Island gives direct mooring access, and Castle Hill offers panoramic views of the fleet.
Author Adam Purser
05-10-2025
Next update December 2025
