Szczecin to reclaim its role as Poland’s gateway to the sea and sailing capital
The announcement that Szczecin will host the Grand Finale of The Tall Ships Races in 2028 has once again placed the city at the forefront of maritime attention in Europe. After the spectacular editions in 2007, 2013, and 2017, the city on the Oder River is set to welcome the world’s most beautiful sailing ships – and thousands of visitors – back to its port, reaffirming its reputation as Poland’s sailing capital and, symbolically, its gateway to the sea.
In brief
Szczecin will host the finale of The Tall Ships Races from 22 to 25 July 2028. The finale in Szczecin will be the fifth in the city's history, after the editions of 2007, 2013, 2017 and 2024. The 2028 race route will cover four ports: Kiel in Germany, Turku in Finland, Tallinn in Estonia and Szczecin. The Port of Szczecin and Świnoujście is steadily increasing cargo handling, and Szczecin lies over 60 kilometres from the Baltic Sea, on the Oder, close to the German border.
This isn’t just a celebratory event. Szczecin’s return to the Tall Ships circuit is a clear signal of the city’s long-term maritime ambitions and its growing importance in the Baltic Sea region’s logistics, shipbuilding, tourism, and education sectors.
A Maritime hub with strategic relevance
Although not directly on the Baltic coastline, Szczecin’s strategic location, deepwater port, and connection to inland waterways have earned it the historical title of “gateway to the sea.” Together with Świnoujście, the Port of Szczecin-Świnoujście is one of the largest port complexes on the southern Baltic, playing a crucial role in freight handling, ferry traffic, and the offshore wind supply chain.
The city is actively modernizing its infrastructure and waterfront, expanding container capacities, supporting shipyard activities (both commercial and naval), and investing in green shipping and intermodal logistics. Szczecin is also a partner in numerous European maritime initiatives focused on decarbonization, digitalization, and inland navigation.
Sailing spirit and marine education
Szczecin’s success with The Tall Ships Races is no coincidence. The event resonates strongly with the city’s sailing culture, fostered through local yacht clubs, maritime schools, and extensive educational programs promoting seafaring traditions among youth.
As part of the 2028 finale, Szczecin plans to showcase not only tall ships and parades but also innovation in the maritime sector, sustainable technologies, and regional cooperation. The city intends to use this event to strengthen ties with other European port cities, industry leaders, and international organizations.
Looking forward
With this announcement, Szczecin is once again steering itself toward the future – at the crossroads of tradition and modernity. From handling cargo to hosting cultural and educational events, the city is proving that its identity is firmly rooted in the sea – even if it lies several dozen kilometers inland.
In 2028, when the sails rise once more above the Oder River, Szczecin won’t just be a stop on the map – it will be the destination.
A city open to the world. A true Baltic gateway.
Source: Gazeta Morska · Compiled by: Kamil Kusier
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