Tall Ships Races in Antwerp: history, adventure and fun

The sun glinting off the water, the wind in your hair, and huge sailing ships stretching as far as the eye can see. And a whole fleet of smaller, historic vessels from a time when everything was still powered by wind and muscle.

Antwerp is pulling out all the stops as the host port for the 2026 Tall Ships Race. As always, the event promises to be a spectacular show.

Giants of the Sea

The two-, three- and four-masted ships are the highlights of the event. These enormous sailing ships, once used as cargo or naval vessels, dominate the scene with their imposing masts and fluttering flags. On board, you can feel the history: you can take part in sailing taster sessions, listen to stories from the crews, and experience what life is like on board one of these ‘cathedrals of the sea’. For young and old alike, it’s a wonderful opportunity to discover how sailing used to work — and how it still works today!

Hidden Gems

Another adventure awaits at the Kattendijk Dock. There you’ll find a collection of smaller historic ships that will take you back to a time when waterways were the motorways of Flanders. Think of:

• Flat-bottomed and round-bottomed boats: These vessels used to be the workhorses of the inland waterways. They were used for fishing, transport and even recreation.
• Botters, tjalken and hoogaarsen: Each vessel has its own story and character. From elegant tjalken and clippers to robust botters — they demonstrate just how inventive and skilled our ancestors were.
• Ships of the Old Gaffers Association: These classics, with their gaff sails, pay tribute to traditional sailing techniques. On board, you can immediately feel the crew’s passion.

These ships are not only a sight to behold; they are also living history. And you’re often allowed to step aboard yourself to experience it up close.

Heritage must sail

Heritage is only truly heritage if it isn’t just on display in a museum, but is also in motion. These ships are still sailing, and that makes them extra special. The owners and crews put their heart and soul into keeping these pieces of history alive. And the ships tell stories: of the storms they’ve weathered, of the days when they were still in active service, and of the community that has grown up around them.

And then there’s that magical moment when the sails are hoisted and the wind takes over. Suddenly, it’s all about teamwork, trust and that sense of freedom. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget — and one that often lingers in your memory for a long time to come.

Further information: click here.

Source: watererfgoed.be.
Image: Tallships Antwerp.