Tall ship denied entry to Aberdeen harbour due to Russian-born captain

A tall ship has been denied entry into the Port of Aberdeen due to it being captained by a Russian-born man.

The TS Shtandart released an open letter directed to the city’s port authorities, confirming that they had also been excluded from the list of participants in the 2025 Tall Ships Races, due to arrive this weekend in the North-East.

The Russian (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2022 were introduced following the invasion of Ukraine.

Under the legislation, ships owned, controlled, chartered, or operated by designated persons, those connected with Russia, or those flying the Russian flag or registered in Russia, are prevented from entering UK Ports.

It is understood that the TS Shtandart was registered as a Russian vessel until June 2024 and that captain, Vladimir Martus, was born in the Eastern European country.

However, the letter issued states that the ship now sails under the Cook Islands flag, and she has not visited Russia in 15 years.

The letter also adds that Mr Martus left Russia more than ten years ago and is now a “long-term resident and taxpayer in Germany”.

The letter reads: “He [Martus] has not returned to Russia in many years and has dedicated his life to education and youth development at sea. TS Shtandart carries no political message.

“She is not a threat nor a tool for propaganda. She is a floating school, an ambassador of peace, a bridge between generations and nations.

“Since her launch, nearly 10,000 young people from over 50 countries have sailed aboard Shtandart, learning not only seamanship, but also cooperation, teamwork, solidarity, mutual respect and how to live and work together across cultures.

It is understood that the TS Shtandart was registered as a Russian vessel until June 2024. TS Shtandart

“This is the very mission of the Tall Ships Races. Born in the aftermath of war, Sail Training International was built on the belief that when young people sail together, they form bonds that rise above politics, borders, and history.”

Sail Training International has confirmed the Shtandart was due to take part in the Race 4 of The Tall Ships Races between Kristiansand, Norway, and Esbjerg, Denmark.

However, the vessel was denied entry at both locations in line with current legislation. This resulted in her participation in The Tall Ships Races 2025 being cancelled.

A statement from Sail Training International read: “Aberdeen was not a confirmed stop for the ship, and Shtandart’s captain, Vladimir Martus, was fully aware of the situation.

“Sail Training International appreciate the difficult position the vessel and her captain find themselves in and we recognise the captain’s and his crew’s commitment to promoting youth development and to fostering international understanding.

“Sail Training International also fully respects the rulings of the higher national and international authorities and is committed to supporting the local organising teams in each of the ports in upholding existing rulings and legislation.”