Latest news with #TallShipsRaces
The Herald Scotland
a day ago
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
Tide Lines Tall Ships concert in Aberdeen to aid RNLI
Initially the 7,000 capacity gig had been planned as a free event, but quick sellouts for Deacon Blue and Kaiser Chiefs have prompted a rethink. Instead online tickets will be sold for £5, with the money raised going to the Aberdeen RNLI. Read More: A spokesperson The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen said: 'Given the amazing clamour for other gigs in the series we didn't want to be in a position of having to turn disappointed fans away from the Sunday concert once it reached capacity. 'Having online tickets to secure places means those who want to see Tide Lines and Calum Bowie can – and do it safely and easily. 'We also felt that a £5 donation would be an opportunity to support RNLI Aberdeen who are integral to safety at sea not just during The Tall Ships Races, but all year round. 'Fans can have a great night out at this special concert - staged as a 'thank you' to the people of Aberdeen for their support of the Tall Ships Races – knowing they are saying 'thank you' to our lifeboat crews.' Tide Lines' lead singer Robert Robertson said: "We can't wait to play one of the Quayside Concerts during the Tall Ships celebrations in Aberdeen! Coming from coastal communities ourselves, we're delighted that proceeds from this show are being donated to the vital cause of the RNLI.' RNLI Aberdeen said they were delighted by the boost the donations from the gig will bring to their work. 'We are so thankful to the Tall Ships Race Aberdeen and the artists for offering the proceeds of this charity concert to Aberdeen RNLI Lifeboat Station,' said Fiona Anderson, the station's volunteer lifeboat management group chair. 'Last year in Scotland RNLI lifeboats launched 1,182 times, aided 881 people and saved the lives of 36 people. The money donated from this concert will go towards keeping our lifeboats and other lifesaving services afloat, and for that, Aberdeen RNLI Lifeboat Station and the wider RNLI are truly thankful!' The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen 2025 will run from July 19 to 22 and has been brought to the city by Aberdeen City Council, Port of Aberdeen and Aberdeen Inspired. It's the first time the Tall Ships race has visited the Granite City in close to 30 years. The event is expected to attract 400,000 visitors and 50 ships from across the globe, with the race to also take in Le Havre, Dunkirk, Kristiansand, and Esbjerg. Tickets for Tide Lines and Calum Bowie will be released on Friday, June 13, at 10am via The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen website
Scottish Sun
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Major summer festival with pop legends & carnival rides coming to Scots city in just weeks
The lineup for the event has also been revealed 'WE CAN'T WAIT' Major summer festival with pop legends & carnival rides coming to Scots city in just weeks Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) AN EXCITING summer festival with carnival rides and pop legends is set to come to a Scottish city in weeks. The Tall Ships festival will come to Aberdeen next month for the first time in 28 years, leaving music fans delighted. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 6 The Tall Ships Races will arrive in Aberdeen next month for the first time in 28 years Credit: HANDOUT 6 Carnival rides will be set up in the Granite City Credit: AFP 6 And music fans can enjoy performances from stars like Deacon Blue Credit: Getty The huge event will see a fleet of historic-style sailing ships arrive in the city for four days of exciting events. It will be held in the Granite City from Saturday, July 19, until Tuesday, July 22. Many of the vessels will be taking part in races and will be open to the public to view at certain times. There will also be a host of legendary acts lined up to entertain crowds at the Quayside Concerts. The open-air performances will be held at Peterson Seabase on the city's Regent Quay to a crowd of 7,000 people. And we previously revealed that the opening night will be hosted by popular Scottish band Deacon Blue. We can't wait to see 50 Tall Ships sailing into Aberdeen this summer. We've made sure there's something for everyone, especially families and children Emma Wadee They will be followed by the Ministry of Sound's 30-piece classical orchestra. While rock icons Kaiser Chiefs have also been asked to back up the 50 boats as they sail into the Port of Aberdeen. There will also be a free event on the Sunday where punters will get to enjoy tunes performed by Tide Lines and Calum Bowie. And now, The Press and Journal has revealed a section of the city will be transformed into a carnival fun zone for the bonanza. Here's how to do festival looks on a budget - and save the planet The Castlegate and King Street areas will be at the heart of the action as rides and attractions are set up. Around 400,000 punters and music fans are expected to descend on the city to lap up the entertainment. A funfair will be in place on King Street, from the West North Street junction to Castle Street. A Discovery learning zone will also be set up in the Castlegate area, which will include several rides and attractions such as the Fast and Furious. This was a huge hit with families when it previously came to Broad Street's Christmas village. Visitors will also be able to go for a ride on the Ferris Wheel and enjoy skyline views of the city. This zone will be free to enter and will also feature a STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) hub. Here, visitors will be able to explore native sea life touch pools, try their hand at boat-building challenges and enjoy Lego workshops. 'SOMETHING MAGICAL' TICKETS for the festival first went on sale back in March after the lineup for the incredible event was announced. Deacon Blue frontman Ricky Ross said: 'We last played the Tall Ships festival back in 2011 in Greenock and loved it. "We're very happy to be asked back and really looking forward to another great night under the stars in Aberdeen later this year.' Tide Line's lead singer Robert Robertson said: "We can't wait to play for the Tall Ships in Aberdeen on 20th July! "We've had some brilliant gigs in Aberdeen over the years and loved playing for the Tall Ships up in Lerwick a couple of summers ago—so this has all the makings of a great night. 'It also falls just after the release of our new album, Glasgow Love Story, making it an especially exciting time for us!' While Calum added: "So excited to be coming back home to play Tall Ships. Being from Banchory, it's an honour to have been asked to play my first ever festival in Aberdeen! "Also super excited to be supporting Tide Lines, such a big inspiration. Should be a class day!" Adrian Watson, the chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said: 'It is a real coup to bring these top-flight acts here to provide an epic soundtrack for the Tall Ships in the Granite City. "Can you imagine Deacon Blue leading 7,000 people in a rendition of Dignity, with all those beautiful vessels as a backdrop? That promises to be something magical. 'These four nights of outstanding concerts will mean Aberdeen is really set to hit the high notes during the Tall Ships visit – not least with the economic boost the 400,000 expected visits will bring the city.' The Codona's carnival will be open across all four days from 9am to 11pm, however, it will close earlier on the final day at 3.20pm. While the Discovery Zone will be open from 9am until 6pm on all days apart from the final day when it will close at 3.30pm. The Tall Ships festival is being organised by Aberdeen City Council, Aberdeen Inspired and Port of Aberdeen. Emma Wadee, Aberdeen City Council's Project Manager for the event, told the Press and Journal: 'We can't wait to see 50 Tall Ships sailing into Aberdeen this summer. 'We've made sure there's something for everyone, especially families and children.' A spokesman from Codona's added: 'With a selection of kids, family, and thrill rides, there will be something for everyone.' 6 Punters will get to enjoy tunes performed by Calum Bowie Credit: Getty 6 Kaiser Chiefs will also headline one of the days Credit: Getty
Sunday Post
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Sunday Post
7 ways to explore more around the Tall Ships in Aberdeen
Get a weekly round-up of stories from The Sunday Post: Thank you for signing up to our Sunday Post newsletter. Something went wrong - please try again later. Sign Up Set sail into an unforgettable summer by exploring the coast beyond the Tall Ships Races. About partnership content Some Sunday Post online content is funded by outside parties. The revenue from this helps to sustain our independent news gathering. You will always know if you are reading paid-for material as it will be clearly labelled as 'Partnership' on the site and on social media channels, This can take two different forms. 'Presented by' This means the content has been paid for and produced by the named advertiser. 'In partnership with' This means the content has been paid for and approved by the named advertiser but written and edited by our own commercial content team. The Tall Ships Races are making a spectacular return to Aberdeen, bringing majestic masts, colourful crews and a whole lot of fun to the city's shoreline. But why stop there? Once you've soaked up the sights, sounds and celebrations of The Tall Ships Races, it's time to discover even more of what this incredible corner of Scotland has to offer. 1. Explore the sands of Balmedie Beach Just a 20-minute drive from the city centre, Balmedie Beach is a wide-open playground of soft sand dunes and sea air. Perfect for a relaxing walk, a picnic with the family or even a spot of kite flying, this stretch of coastline is a favourite with locals and a great place to stretch your legs after the buzz of the Tall Ships crowds. Be sure to keep an eye out for seals as they can often be spotted along the shoreline. 2. Step back in time at Dunnottar Perched dramatically on a cliff edge near Stonehaven, the ruins of Dunnottar Castle look like something out of a fantasy novel. A short drive from Aberdeen, it's a must-visit for panoramic views, dramatic history and windswept beauty. Catch a glimpse of what life was like a long, long time ago and discover many of the rich secrets of Scotland's past. Bring your camera – and your walking shoes – and make a coastal hike of it along the cliff trail from Stonehaven. 3. Hop aboard a dolphin spotting boat tour Port of Aberdeen is one of the best places in Europe to spot bottlenose dolphins – and the best way to see them is from the water. Aberdeen Harbour Tours run exciting trips leaving from the port. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins leaping, puffins paddling and even the occasional seal sunbathing on the rocks. 4. Be adventurous on a stand-up paddle board safari For a truly immersive coastal experience, consider the SUP Safari along Stonehaven's dramatic coastline. This half-day adventure combines stand-up paddleboarding beneath the iconic Dunnottar Castle. As you paddle, you'll explore hidden caves and coves, and during the spring and summer months, witness the bustling seabird colonies. 5. Join a Nuart Aberdeen walking tour For a creative twist to your coastal adventure, join a Nuart Aberdeen walking tour and explore the city's vibrant street art scene. These guided tours highlight world-class murals and installations, including striking pieces near the harbour that blend contemporary art with Aberdeen's maritime heritage. With routes designed to be accessible and engaging for all ages, it's a colourful and inspiring way to experience the city beyond the sails. You can book a tour in advance online or choose the self-guided option using their interactive map. 6. Walk the coastal trail from Collieston to Newburgh Fancy a proper adventure? This stunning stretch of the Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail winds past sand dunes, estuaries and wildlife havens. It's a quieter alternative to the city and perfect for walkers looking to immerse themselves in nature. Don't forget your binoculars – the Forvie National Nature Reserve is home to one of the largest eider duck colonies in the UK. And with Collieston recently named one of the UK's top hidden coastal gems, there's no better place to start your journey. 7. Uncover local legends at Slains Castle Head north along the coast to Cruden Bay, where the haunting ruins of Slains Castle loom over the sea. Said to have inspired Bram Stoker's Dracula, it's a thrilling spot to visit – especially when combined with a coastal walk from the beach. Brave enough to visit at twilight? It's a gothic dream. Just remember to stay safe, keep to marked paths, avoid cliff edges, and don't climb on the ruins. Make the most of your Tall Ships trip With so much to see and do beyond the harbour, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire's coastlines offer the perfect extension to your Tall Ships experience. Whether you're in it for the scenery, the wildlife, the castles or the crisp sea air, one thing's for sure – the adventure doesn't end when the sails come down. Start planning your coastal adventure today.
Press and Journal
18-05-2025
- General
- Press and Journal
Tragedy as Tall Ship set to arrive in Aberdeen in July crashes into Brooklyn Bridge killing two onboard
A ship that was set to dock in Aberdeen for the Tall Ships Races has crashed into Brooklyn Bridge, killing two onboard. Two people have died and at least 19 others injured after a tall Mexican Navy training sailing ship called the the Cuauhtémoc crashed into New York City's Brooklyn Bridge. Officers have said the ship lost power on Saturday forcing it to head for the bridge. The ship's masts clipped the Brooklyn Bridge as it passed under the structure. Police said that crew members were standing on the masts as they snapped and fell to the deck. The Cuauhtemoc was set to dock in Aberdeen on July 19 among 48 other ships for this year's Races. The ships stay in the Granite City until 22 July, when the competing ships sail on to Kristiansand in Norway. Organisers of the Tall Ships festival said they are 'deeply saddened' by the news. Currently, it has been confirmed that two people have died and two of the 19 injured are in critical condition. Police said they believed 'mechanical issues' and a power cut had caused the crash. New York City Mayor Eric Adams posted: 'Earlier tonight, the Mexican Navy tall ship Cuauhtémoc lost power and crashed into the Brooklyn Bridge. 'At this time, of the 277 on board, 19 sustained injuries, 2 of which remain in critical condition, and 2 more have sadly passed away from their injuries. 'We are praying for everyone on board and their families. We are grateful to our first responders who quickly jumped into action, ensuring this accident wasn't much worse.' A Sail Training International spokesperson, who are behind The Tall Ships Races, said: 'The team at Sail Training International (STI) are deeply saddened by the recent news of the incident onboard Cuauhtemoc this weekend. 'On behalf of the sail training family, our hearts go out to the team, staff and crew of the Mexican Navy and all affected by this tragic incident.' Speaking to the BBC, witness Kevin Flores said he came into the street to find 'commotion and chaos' . He saw fire engines and police trying to reach the scene but the roads clogged with traffic. He said: 'Just seeing the actual damage was insane. 'People carrying stretchers… they were trying to get the injured out.' Read more: Revealed: Confirmed list of Tall Ships sailing into Aberdeen this summer
Press and Journal
16-05-2025
- Business
- Press and Journal
Uber chief claims airport rule change shows Aberdeen needs more taxis - as shortage 'holds back the city'
Uber has hit out at plans allowing airport taxis to work in Aberdeen while the Tall Ships are here – saying it proves there aren't enough cabs on city streets. The council's licensing committee recently agreed to relax the rules around where vehicles can operate for certain spells. Drivers typically only allowed on airport runs will be allowed to work all over Aberdeen during the four-day Tall Ships festival in July and again for Offshore Europe in September. It follows concerns that city was heading into the tourist bonanza with a dearth of taxis available to ferry visitors around. Uber's head of cities, Matthew Freckelton, is now arguing that the change proves drastic action is needed to permanently increase the Aberdeen fleet. The firm has previously railed against would-be drivers having to pass a stringent 'street knowledge test' before getting a licence. Mr Freckelton claimed Uber 'had the data' to show there was a need for more cabs in the city. The ride-hailing platform launched in Aberdeen in October but thousands of trip requests have gone unanswered due to a shortage of licensed drivers. He said: 'This move from Aberdeen Council clearly shows that there is an unmet demand for taxis in the city. 'We know this from the 170,000 trip requests in our app since we launched. 'This huge unmet demand is holding back the city, especially when it comes to major events such as the Tall Ships Races.' The Uber boss added: 'In normal weeks however, Uber is already seeing enough passenger demand to add over 100 drivers in the city. 'This would help passengers get to where they want to safely, and boost the local economy.' Uber is understood to have only a 'single digit' handful of drivers in Aberdeen. However, a recent Licenced Vehicle Surveys and Assessment report stated there was 'no significant unmet demand and no overprovision of private hire cars'. But it did suggest there was limited availability, particularly on Saturday nights and peak times during the week. These results prompted Aberdeen businessman and head of Our Union Street Bob Keiller to share his thoughts on the situation. He claimed there was a shortage of taxis in the city and urged the council to drop the street knowledge test for drivers. Mr Keiller said: 'The number of licensed drivers in Aberdeen has fallen by about half in the last 10 years and we are about to see another step down in numbers when the LEZ exemption for taxis expires in June. 'We will be heading into the Tall Ships and Offshore Europe with fewer taxis than we have had for many years.' The temporary rule change will allow airport taxis work in Aberdeen during the Tall Ships festival from 6pm on Friday, July 18 to 11.59pm on Tuesday, July 22. They will be able to do the same for Offshore Europe from Tuesday 2 to Friday 5 September.
