We will support the delivery of the Tall Ships 2023 bid and support the development of small-scale events and festivals to celebrate, increase participation and build pride in Shetland’s heritage.
Together with Lerwick Port Authority and Shetland Tall Ships Limited, the Council led the bid for the Tall Ships Races with Lerwick being selected in May 2021 to be a host port for the third time. The Council allocated £1.238m to Shetland Tall Ships Ltd, becoming the main source of funding for what was a highly successful event between 26 and 29 July 2023. Further funding was provided via the Coastal Communities Fund to support sail trainee opportunities and local events linked to the Tall Ships.
The event impact assessment report estimates that the Tall Ships event generated a positive local economic impact, with over 16,000 unique visitors and a net direct spend in Shetland of £3m. The event was very well received, with 99% of visitor survey respondents rating the overall quality of the event very good/fairly good. The event was also delivered under budget, with a surplus of £238,536 retained from Council grant funding, not including £75,068 of grant funding not drawn down.
