Become a volunteer for the Tall Ships!

Sign up as a volunteer and join a team of 300 committed and skilled people from across the region. As a volunteer, you have a central role in the implementation of the Tall Ships Races; and we want Stavanger to be the best host port for the visiting ships, and give the ship crews, young people and visitors an unforgettable experience! 

You will have the opportunity to be part of a large community, to solve tasks together, both small and large, where you can build relationships, networks and expertise. 

Registration 

Registration for volunteers will open towards the end of 2025. If you are interested in joining, follow us on Facebook and Instagram. We will announce as soon as registration opens. 

This is what you get as a volunteer at Tall Ships Races Stavanger 2026 

• Experience making a difference for young people
• Opportunity to contribute to an inclusive event
• Learn something new and increase your skills
• Get to know other volunteers in an international community
• Join social gatherings with other volunteers
• Exclusive Tall Ships Races clothing
• Food and drinks when you are on duty
• Participate in the closing party on 25th July

Tall Ships Races is a large event with many different responsibilities and tasks. Below you will find a description of some of the tasks you can be given as a volunteer: 

Staff

All tasks related to the implementation of the festival and events on land. There are many practical tasks here: 

• Rigging up and down.
• Environmental guardians who help keep the festival area clean and tidy.
• Floater volunteers who assist where needed and who do not have permanent tasks.
• Info points. Volunteers at Information Points are the Tall Ships' primary ambassadors. This group handles all possible inquiries from the public - from informing about the programme, ships, exhibitors, to directions, so it is an advantage if you are local.
• Activities and events: The days will be filled with activities and a cultural programme for crew and visitors, and for this volunteers are needed to assist with everything from backstage to food service and organisation of these events.

Liason Officers (LO) 

A liaison officer (LO) is the link between the sailing vessel and the host port. You will have daily contact with an individual ship and be available throughout the visit. The workload may vary, but your main tasks will be to provide necessary supplies, show the crew the way to the crew centre and other facilities in Stavanger. 

Requirements: Over 25 years old, fluent in Norwegian and English, and preferably the language of the ship's home country. You have experience with sailing, are independent and solution-oriented. 

Crew Friends

A Crew Friend assists the liaison officers and has contact with fellow sailors on board. You provide information about offers, activities, trips, Crew Parade, Crew Party and other onshore events, as well as help with registration and meeting places. As a Crew Friend, you get to know fellow sailors from all over the world. 

Requirements: Age 15-25 years old, fluent in Norwegian and English, and preferably the language of the ship's home country. 

Photo and Media 

Volunteer photographers and content producers will help take pictures of everything, big and small, that happens during the event. Volunteers may be given specific tasks such as covering specific events, or it may be to capture good moments during the entire event. Volunteers must comply with Stavanger municipality's rules for photography and the use of consent. 

Volunteer Centre 

At the volunteer centre, volunteers can relax, take a break, have a snack, and talk to other volunteers. Volunteers are needed here to ensure a good atmosphere, food service, and to ensure  that it is a pleasant place for all volunteers to come to during the week. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is there an age limit to volunteering? 

There is basically a 15-year age limit to volunteer, but we can also arrange for younger participants to join if they sign up with an adult. 

What is required of a volunteer? 

We want to make sure that as many people as possible can have the opportunity to volunteer at the Tall Ships, but we also have some expectations and requirements. To volunteer for the Tall Ships Races, it is expected that the individual must be able to carry out their tasks on the scheduled days. These can be long days, and for many it will involve a lot of walking and some heavy lifting. Otherwise, the individual is expected to meet at the agreed times, comply with the contract, and not least; be motivated to create a fantastic event together! 

Are meals and accommodation arranged for volunteers? 

All volunteers are provided with food and drinks during their shift. Accommodation is not provided. If you need accommodation, you must arrange it yourself. 

Can I choose where and when I want to work? 

You can list your wishes for areas of responsibility and times. We cannot guarantee that your wishes will be fulfilled, however, we will try to put together good teams of volunteers based on your characteristics, wishes and needs. We are looking for motivated volunteers, and if you do not get to work with what you want, we will contact you to find a solution. 

What languages ​​should I know? 

We will try to find tasks for everyone, regardless of language skills. Some tasks require specific language skills, and it is an advantage to know Norwegian and English. The Tall Ships Races is an international event, and other languages ​​can also be useful. 

Do I get paid? 

Being a volunteer at the Tall Ships Races will be a great and wonderful experience.  You will not be paid a salary, but rewarded with new experiences, good memories, and new acquaintances. In addition, volunteers receive unique Tall Ships Races products, food and drinks during their shifts, and are invited to attend the ‘big volunteer party’ once the event is over.