Tall Ships: Delayed Spirit of Falmouth arrives into Port of Aberdeen

The Spirit of Falmouth has arrived in the Port of Aberdeen after delays caused by engine trouble in Leith.

The tall ship had originally been due to sail into the Granite City at around 2pm on Friday, alongside the Pellew, as part of a return visit almost a year after Aberdeen’s Tall Ships festival.

While the Pellew arrived earlier than scheduled, the Spirit of Falmouth was held back, with her arrival now confirmed into the harbour.

Anticipation grows for Tall Ships in Aberdeen

There was a growing sense of anticipation along the coastline and harbour, with people gathering at the North Pier, one of the best public vantage points, to watch her sail in.

Guided into position by port crews, she is berthed at Telford Dock, joining the Pellew to complete the weekend line-up.

Both vessels are part of the Full Circle Expedition, a UK-wide voyage which set sail from Falmouth on March 17 and will visit 22 ports across the UK and Ireland before returning in June.

The journey is crewed by a rotating team of around 70 wounded, injured and sick  veterans and serving personnel, using sailing as a way to support recovery, rebuild confidence and develop new skills.

The voyage, coordinated by local veterans’ sailing charity Turn to Starboard in partnership with Invictus Games Birmingham 2027, aims to raise £300,000 to fund a second tall ship.

Invictus Games will be handed over at the event

The goal is to expand the charity’s work supporting veterans facing challenges including PTSD, physical injury, isolation and loss of confidence.

During the Aberdeen stop, the Invictus Games flag will be formally handed over and raised in honour of the crew, local veterans and those preparing to compete in the 2027 Games.

Members of the public were able to step aboard both ships on Saturday between 2pm and 4pm.

Crews will also take part in a range of activities across the weekend.

In addition, Full Circle Expedition is hosting an evening of sea shanties at the Prince of Wales on St Nicholas Lane from 7pm on Saturday, offering a chance for the public to meet the crew and soak up the atmosphere.

Both vessels are scheduled to remain in Aberdeen for two days before departing on Sunday.

[Source: Press and Journal]