Though barred from participating officially in the Tall Ships Race due to the ship’s historical roots in St. Petersburg, the Shtandart continues her steadfast journey—both literal and symbolic—as a living tribute to cooperation, peace, and maritime heritage.
Despite being prohibited from docking at the Port of Aberdeen by local port authorities, Shtandart anchored in the small harbor of Buckie, approximately 100 kilometers north. Undeterred, several of her 25 international crew members made their way by public transport to Aberdeen to take part in the race festivities. Although excluded from the official event and its facilities, the crew immersed themselves in the spirit of unity and camaraderie the Tall Ships Races were built to celebrate.
“We may not have had a berth in Aberdeen, but we found anchorage in the hearts of the people,” said Captain Vladimir Martus, who has helmed the Shtandart through many challenges. “The crew’s resilience is matched only by the kindness of those who welcomed us.”
Crew members marched proudly in the parade, and one sailor—an accomplished musician—delivered impromptu organ recitals at St. Andrew’s Cathedral.
“Their music lifted the spirits of many. It was a joy to open our doors to such brave and talented young people,” said Father Isaac Poobalan, Provost of St. Andrew’s.
“Though they arrived without fanfare, they brought something sacred—an unshaken belief in peace and unity.”
The warmth extended far beyond the cathedral. Local volunteers embraced the Shtandart crew as their own.
“We don’t need a flag to tell us who’s welcome here,” said Deacon Doug Duncan port chaplain of the Stella Maris Seafarers’ Organization. “These are sailors. They belong.”
“I just did a bit of laundry for one of them this morning,” shared Ann Ryans, a volunteer from Aberdeen Seafarers Organization. “He’s an amazing young man. I feel blessed to have met him, a true ambassador for his country. It felt like I was helping a neighbor. They’re not strangers—they’re family.”
With limited accommodations, crew members found rest wherever they could. Some shared tight hotel spaces, while others slept at the Breakneck Comedy Club, generously offered by the cathedral.
“There was fellowship, thoughtful discussion, and a shared sense of humanity,” added Poobalan. I was grateful we could offer accommodation—and it’s been heartening to hear how others in the community reached out with kindness and practical support.”
In a moving gesture, Poobalan journeyed to Buckie to bless the Shtandart and her crew at anchor. “It was a moment of solemn grace,” he said. “And tomorrow, I will bless all the ships from the lighthouse—including Shtandart. Because exclusion has no place in faith.”
The Shtandart’s diverse crew—representing 14 different nations—continues to demonstrate unity in action. They remain undeterred by politics and focused on their shared mission: fostering understanding through the living heritage of the sea.
“This ship is no menace to Europe,” said Captain Vladimir. “She is a floating symbol of cooperation, courage, and hope—a lighthouse in troubled waters.”
ABOUT THE VESSEL
Français 
English 
Русский 
Deutsch 
Español