Harlingen, The Netherlands

Harlingen hosted its first event in 2014… and we had a fantastic time when we returned to the city for the Tall Ships Races 2018.

It’s one of the oldest seaports in The Netherlands, and it’s the gateway to northern Holland from the North Sea. Harlingen is the homeport for sea-going trawlers and a large traditional sail charter fleet.

Harlingen is a yachting centre and it has two ancient tidal docks – the Noorderhaven and Zuidehaven. These surround the historic city centre and give the city its unique character. Smaller Tall Ships can berth in the Noorderhaven, which is lined with historic warehouses and the stately houses of ship owners.

The city has a history that stretches back a thousand years, and this is reflected in some of the beautiful architecture on show. Harlingen is the departure point for Frisian ships to the north, south, east, and west. Visitors and the Tall Ships were very warmly welcomed when they arrived in the port for the spectacular finale to the Tall Ships Races 2018.