July 2025 saw the spectacular return of the Tall Ships Races to Aberdeen, nearly three decades since their last visit to the Granite City. Over four days, the harbour transformed into a festival of culture, community and international friendship - and for Robert Gordon’s College, it was a chance for pupils to step aboard and take part in an unforgettable adventure.

Last winter, Charles Taylor, Class of ’93, inspired pupils when he shared his memories of sailing in the 1997 races. His words encouraged many to sign up as sail trainees this summer. Reflecting on the event, Charles said:

“I’m delighted the Tall Ships was such a success for Aberdeen and thrilled so many pupils had the chance to sail. Hopefully I helped inspire them by sharing what to expect and how to get involved.”

RGC pupils applied for places as Sail Trainees for both the second leg of the race, from Dunkirk to Aberdeen, and the third, from Aberdeen to Kristiansand. Each voyage offered new challenges, lasting friendships and unforgettable moments.

Sailing on the Dutch vessel Wylde Swan were Isla, Bea, both S5, and Liam, S3.  On returning to Aberdeen, Isla recalled:

“One night when the wind dropped we watched Pirates of the Caribbean projected onto a sail as the sun set. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Although sailing on different legs of the race, fellow pupils Casper and Rosie, both Class of 2025, sailed aboard the Danish vessel Gulden Leeuw.  Casper shared his sense of accomplishment after completing his sail:

“By the end of the voyage, the crew trusted us to take full control of the ship. That showed how far we’d come in our skills and teamwork.”

Zander, Class of 2025 sailed aboard the prestigious Norwegian vessel Sørlandet, built in Kristiansand in 1927.  Proud to be a member of the Sørlandet crew, Zander shared:

“My Granda was a ship liaison officer when the Tall Ships last came to Aberdeen in 1997. He encouraged me to get involved, and I’m so glad I did. My favourite part was working as a team to hoist the sails.”

Following in their father Charles Taylor’s footsteps, sisters, Katherine, S5, and Anna, Class of 2025, both sailed on the Dutch vessel Eendracht:

“Sailing on Eendracht was one of the coolest things I’ve ever done,” explained Katherine. “Dolphins swimming alongside us, steering at 12 knots and even jumping off the bow for a swim – it’s hard to pick a favourite moment.”

The Tall Ships brought over 400,000 visitors to Aberdeen’s quayside and city centre. Crowds enjoyed live music, street performers and spectacular displays, all while celebrating the city’s maritime heritage.

The RGC community played its part on shore too. Volunteering with His Majesty’s Aberdeen Coastguard Rescue Team, Head of Outdoor Education Bob Taylor was one of four crews on rotation, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the public and communities in Aberdeen over the four days of celebration.  Head of Geography Dr Jenny Gray played a crucial role as Visitor Experience Host, using her local knowledge to guide visitors around the site and inspiring them with other sightseeing opportunities around the city.  Dr Gray's son Peter, Class of 2025, also sailed from Dunkirk to Aberdeen as part of the 2025 celebrations.

The RGC Pipe Band entertained crews at the Crew Highland Games, while Senior School Library Assistant Anna Bukalska performed folk songs and sea shanties on the main stage, with her Polish-Scottish singing group - singing in both English and Polish.  Archivist Tom Cumming also performed on the main stage with the Strathspey and Reel Society. In a fitting end to the Harbourside festivities, their music filled the air with the traditional sounds of Scotland.

Lastly, in a spectacular display of skill, precision and teamwork, RAF Squadron Leader Tom Hansford DFC, Class of 2005, led the Synchro Pair as part of the Red Arrows’ incredible display over Aberdeen Beach - a fitting finale to the celebrations, dampened only by the low lying cloud cover, thousands took to the beachfront to watch the spectacular display.

We are so proud of everyone within our Gordonian Community who took part in this year's Tall Ships races 2025, and hope that their efforts might inspire the next generation of Gordonians to take part when the ships return to Aberdeen.