Stavanger is a modern port, but retains a small historic district. The lovely old harbour is a favourite stopover for big cruiseships that tower over the buildings. The city has a lively cultural scene, and is surrounded by numerous outdoor destinations well worth a visit. Explore the narrow, rocky Lysefjord and the mountains Preikestolen and Kjerag, or relax on Jæren’s beaches. Make sure to bring hiking boots, as the mountains stand over 1000 meters tall.
The Tall Ships Races
Every year dozens of Tall Ships, as well as small ships and yachts gather for races and harbour events, which include Crew Parades, Crew Parties, competitions, concerts, fireworks and more. Every leg starts with Parade of Sail – a spectacular departure of all the Ships together, and ends with the last two days of the Journey spent in the destination port.
The Tall Ships Races 2023 will take the fleet across the North Sea 4 times! Starting in Den Helder, the Netherlands, the Ships will embark on Race 1 to Hartlepool in Great Britain. Race 2 will take them to Norwegian Fredrikstad, from where they will sail in Cruise in Company to Lerwick in the Shetlands. The final Race 3 will end back in Norway – this time in a charming town of Arendal.