In France next week and wondering what to do?
The Tall Ships Race 2025 is on
Head to Le Havre in Normandy, a dynamic port city just two hours by train from Paris, where from July 4th to 7th you can experience one of the most breathtaking maritime events in the world: the departure of the Tall Ships Race 2025.
These majestic sailing vessels — the largest and most beautiful of their kind — will be docked right in the harbours of Le Havre, just a five-minute walk from the train station. They’ll be gathering there ahead of the start of an epic race that begins on July 7th at 15:00, taking them from Le Havre to Scotland, then on to Norway, before finishing in Denmark.
You'll be able to stroll right up to the ships, touch their hulls, and admire their towering masts from close quarters. Many of the ships will offer on-board visits (details available once on site), and the surrounding docks will be transformed into a lively festival space: think live music, fireworks, pop-up shops, food stalls, and plenty of activities for all ages.
Best of all — everything is free.
Le Havre last hosted the Tall Ships Race in 2017 (as arrival port), drawing over 400,000 visitors. This year, with over 40 ships expected (though one dropped out after an unfortunate bridge incident in the US), the turnout could be even greater.
If you’re anywhere nearby, don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness a spectacular seafaring tradition up close.
More details are available on the official race website: Tall Ships Races & Regattas
Click here to access the Le Havre website for all local activities, schedules and maps (in English).