We were thrilled to capture the return of the tall ship races to the City of Aberdeen, as a ‘Cruise in Company Guest Harbour’, the first time since 1997. As the sole video production partner for the Tall Ships Races 2025, Port of Aberdeen commissioned us to film the Atlantica, Statsraad Lehmkuhl and Bima Suci, marking the two-year countdown until Aberdeen hosts the Races in 2025.
Our team arrived at the North Harbour, ready for two days of filming various activities in the harbour and around the city. The largest ship to berth was the Bima Suci, the Indonesian Navy’s training vessel, which came prepared to wow, with the crew wearing incredible avant-garde garb, synchronised dance moves, and their own band (dressed as sea creatures). They were welcomed into Aberdeen by the Lord Provost Piper. Once docked, the Captain & crew met Council Co-Leader Ian Youll, Port of Aberdeen’s Chief Commercial Officer Roddy James, and Aberdeen Inspired Business Engagement Manager – Roulè Wood.
Once the crew had finished their hard work on board, they joined us landlubbers to experience the exciting activities Aberdeen has to offer.
Some joined Aberdeen City Council staff at the circus, while another group explored the city with NuArt Tours. Crowds formed wherever the crew went, as the people of Aberdeen were eager to get a look at the sailors in their beautiful Navy uniforms.
The Atlantica, the smallest of the three ships, was led by a Danish crew and have taken on two trainees for the next leg of the journey.
Port of Aberdeen is supporting Rebecca Owen and Megan Downie, through Sail Training Shetland, to embark on an awe-inspiring journey aboard the magnificent Atlantica, for the competitive race leg sailing from Aberdeen to Lerwick, Arendal, and Gothenburg.
We got the chance to chat to them before they sailed away. Rebecca said: “I am really looking forward to sailing out of my home port, as well as seeing some beautiful coastlines from Atlantica. I am very grateful to have this opportunity to adventure as well as broaden my horizons and meet so many new people!”
Megan said: “I am so happy and excited to be a part of the Tall Ships Races in 2023. I just can’t wait to get out on the water to just feel free! I am so thankful for this opportunity and grateful to Port of Aberdeen for giving me this chance to take part in this experience.”
On Saturday our team were at the North Harbour to capture the arrival of the majestic Norwegian vessel Statsraad Lehmkuhl – built in 1914 it’s now some 109 years old.
Both the Statsraad Lehmkuhl and the Bima Suci opened their decks to everyone in the city to come and experience. At the same time the Bima Suci crew were marching through the city, performing for the crowds at Union Terrace Gardens.
The culmination of the event was a ceilidh at the Beach Ballroom for all crew and trainees. The Indonesian & Norwegian crews got a taste of some of our local food. Once everyone had their fill, the tables were moved out of the way to let the real party start and the crews had a great time, dancing the night away to some real Scottish tunes.
Signal are proud partners of the Tall Ships Races 2025 and look forward to welcoming everyone back when they return. Watch the video now!
