Aberdeen to bid to host Tall Ships 'spectacle' again as timeline revealed

Aberdeen is to bid to host the Tall Ships event again within the next five years.

The Granite City hosted the “spectacle” event this summer, which saw 496,000 visitors attend over four days and generated over £2m in revenue.

Businesses across the city say the event boosted trading, and council leaders are looking to bid again to host the event as early as 2030.

The event was the most attended free event in Scotland in 2025.

Chairperson of the Tall Ships Event Organising Committee Councillor Martin Greig said: “It was such a joy to see so many people enjoying the spectacle of the ships in the harbour as well as the concerts, food, and stalls surrounding the event.

“There was such a feel-good atmosphere at the Tall Ships Races and it would be great to bring that back to Aberdeen so we are delighted that we will be putting a formal bid in again.”

Councillor Alex McLellan said: “The Tall Ships Races in Aberdeen were even more of a success than was envisioned with over 496,000 visits across the weekend providing a massive boost to the economy and to local businesses.

“Aberdeen City Council, working with the Port of Aberdeen, are committed to securing the return of the Tall Ships from 2030 to build on the success of the event.”