KU Sailing Vessel “Brabander” – The Only One of Its Kind in Lithuania
The year 2026 marks a special milestone in the history of Brabander: it will be 20 years since the vessel became part of Klaipeda University. Over the past two decades, the ship has become not only a symbol of the university but also an important part of Lithuania’s maritime culture.
Brabander is a 36-meter sailing vessel built in the Netherlands in 1977, which was acquired by KU in 2006. The ship is actively used for student training, scientific expeditions, and the promotion of maritime culture in Lithuania and abroad.
Brabander is the only Class B sailing vessel in Lithuania participating in The Tall Ships Races. Its appearance in international competitions is an honor for Klaipeda University, the city of Klaipėda, the entire Lithuanian maritime community, and the country itself.
“The Tall Ships Races regatta is far more than a sporting competition for young people. It is an experience that develops teamwork, leadership, responsibility, and the ability to overcome challenges. Klaipeda University considers it extremely important that as many young people aged 15–25 as possible have the opportunity to experience this by sailing aboard our vessel Brabander, especially during the racing stage. Such journeys shape young people and strengthen their connection with themselves, the team, and nature,” says KU Rector Prof. Dr. Artūras Razbadauskas.
Registration Open for “The Tall Ships Races” Voyage
Everyone interested in experiencing a sailing adventure and testing their abilities at sea is invited to participate in The Tall Ships Races. This is a unique opportunity to become part of an international crew, discover maritime culture, and visit impressive ports of the Baltic and North Seas.
Each sailing stage requires a participant contribution to cover voyage expenses such as food, fuel, port fees, vessel maintenance, and other operational costs.
The journey is divided into three stages:
June 19–25 | Klaipėda – Nexø – Helsingør – Aarhus
This is a non-competitive stage, sailing to the race start. Participants of all ages are welcome to join.
June 25 – July 5 | Aarhus – Harlingen
This is the main racing stage of The Tall Ships Races, offering participants the opportunity to experience the true spirit of competition within an international crew. According to race rules, at least half of the crew must consist of young people aged 15–25. According to the race organizers, the initiative not only encourages young people to take up sailing but also provides an educational and value-based experience that fosters interest in the sea and maritime professions.
July 5–12 | Harlingen – Helgoland – Kiel Canal – Kiel – Sassnitz – Klaipėda
The final stage marks the return to the home port, visiting additional Baltic coastal cities. No age restrictions apply for this stage.
Representatives of the Brabander crew emphasize that motivation and curiosity are the most important qualities for those wishing to join the team. An experienced captain and crew will introduce each new member to the fundamentals of sailing, ensure safety, and help them find their place on board.
The Tall Ships Races is more than a journey—it is an experience that inspires, builds self-confidence, and creates memories for a lifetime.
A Unique Opportunity for Young People to Test Themselves at Sea
The long-standing mission of The Tall Ships Races is to give young people the opportunity to experience the adventure of a lifetime while developing teamwork, leadership, responsibility, and the ability to face the challenges of the sea. The crew of Klaipeda University’s sailing vessel aims to ensure that as many young people aged 15–25 as possible can participate in the competition, particularly in the racing stage from June 25 to July 5.
Lithuanian Sea Scout Gabrielė, who previously participated in The Tall Ships Races, shares her experience:
“The Brabander crew is very friendly and professional—we worked hard during the races but also laughed a lot, and returned home with many wonderful memories. Although it wasn’t my first time sailing on Brabander, it was the first time in my life that I saw such a breathtaking sight—so many beautiful tall ships on the horizon. Some members of our team were sailing on the open sea for the first time, and some climbed a mast as high as a nine-storey building for the first time.”
Gabrielė’s impressions are echoed by young participants who won sponsor-funded places in the racing stage. According to them, the experience left a strong impression and strengthened their desire to return to the sea.
“It was an unforgettable adventure. So many emotions, new experiences, and challenges—I would definitely recommend it to anyone if they ever get the chance!” says Martynas.
Arnas recalls the tension during the races:
“There was stress and unexpected situations, but thanks to the experienced crew everything was resolved smoothly. It was a great opportunity to learn, work as a team, and experience the true maritime spirit.”
However, financial challenges often prevent young people from participating. Therefore, Klaipeda University is actively seeking partners and sponsors who could help create opportunities for as many motivated young people as possible to take part in this international adventure.
KU invites companies and organizations to become supporters of this meaningful initiative and contribute to shaping the life adventures and professional futures of young people.
To become a sponsor, please contact: +370 687 35375
Strong Support from Partners
Klaipeda University is pleased to see growing support from partners. The Klaipėda State Seaport Authority has already set an example for future sponsors by becoming the first project partner, supporting Brabander’s participation in The Tall Ships Races 2026.
“Klaipėda Port opens the vastness of the sea to all of us and offers the opportunity to set sail toward the horizon. We are proud to see vessels such as the sailing ship Brabander departing through the port gates, proudly carrying the Lithuanian tricolor across the world. In the rustling of its sails and in the voices of its crew, we hear pride in our maritime nation. For the young people who choose to become part of the crew, the Baltic Sea will offer unforgettable experiences and adventures that cannot be found anywhere else, making us fall in love with its waves, wind, and ever-inviting horizon. We wish Brabander fair winds and assure you that we will enthusiastically follow this journey,” says Algis Latakas, Director General of the Klaipėda State Seaport Authority.
Another supporter joining the initiative is OJ Crew, which previously sponsored Klaipeda University’s yacht Odisėja during The Tall Ships Races 2024. This year, the company will provide one Lithuanian Maritime Academy student with the opportunity to complete a so-called classical training practice aboard the sailing vessel, offering experiences and impressions that not every seafarer gains throughout their entire career. The company will organize a competition to select the student who will participate in The Tall Ships Races 2026.
The Maritime Community Support Fund has become the third sponsor of the race.
“One of the goals of the Maritime Community Support Fund is to nurture maritime culture and traditions and promote them among young people. We wholeheartedly support the participation of Klaipėda University’s sailing vessel Brabander in The Tall Ships Races 2026. As part of the international maritime community, we feel a responsibility to encourage such initiatives,” says Aleksandras Kaupas, the fund’s manager.
Register for the 2026 Sea Adventure
Klaipeda University invites sea enthusiasts and young people aged 15–25 to register for the Brabander crew and become part of this extraordinary journey.
It is an opportunity not only to test yourself on the open sea but also to represent Lithuania in the international tall ships community, build friendships with people from around the world, and bring home an experience that will last a lifetime.
Choose your sea adventure of 2026 – join the crew of Brabander!
