Tall Ship Races Lisbon 2023

Many years ago, I was privileged to bask in the brilliance of azure skies, bask beneath the warm caress of the sun's gentle rays, and savour the serene embrace of the Tejo River. It was during those golden days that I made a resolute decision to embark on a voyage of discovery, enrolling in sailing classes.

Each week, I eagerly convened with a dedicated crew of fellow adventurers, all of us standing ready to heed the commands of our seasoned skipper. Together, we embarked on journeys that took us from the tranquil waters of the river to the boundless expanse of the ocean, where we were greeted by the invigorating spray of the waves, glistening like a cascade of diamonds, and nourished by the unbreakable camaraderie that flowed through our collective spirit.

This September, the luminous Tejo River bore witness to a majestic spectacle as the Tall Ships, magnificent vessels of seafaring artistry, graced its waters as part of The Tall Ships Races Magellan-Elcano 2023. The splendour they exuded was a sight to behold!

These venerable races, steeped in tradition, grace the maritime calendar annually, fostering not only international camaraderie but also nurturing the burgeoning sailing skills of the youth, who will carry the legacy of this timeless tradition into the future.

The genesis of these races can be traced back to the aftermath of the Second World War when two visionary individuals, Bernard Morgan and Pedro Teotónio Pereira, breathed life into the spirit of competition. Their tireless dedication spanned three years, birthing an event that endures to this very day.

This week, as the sun cast its warm embrace upon Lisbon, we watched in awe as these majestic Tall Ships gracefully glided into the heart of the city. Each one seemed to tell a story of its own, a floating testament to the indomitable human spirit and the relentless pursuit of adventure. We were privileged to explore these nautical marvels, gaining insight into the intricate roles and routines of their crews, and immersing ourselves in the captivating lore of life at sea. It was an experience that bestowed upon us invaluable life lessons—lessons of camaraderie, the beauty of teamwork, unwavering dedication, and the enduring bonds of friendship.

Now, these magnificent vessels have set sail for the historic city of Cadiz in Spain, where they will cast anchor from Thursday, September 7th, to Sunday, September 10th, 2023. With hearts filled with hope and well wishes, we bid them farewell, praying for fair winds and safe passages across the vast, unpredictable canvas of the ocean. Bon voyage, dear Tall Ships, may your journey be filled with wonder and your sails forever billow with the spirit of adventure!