Tall 2010 Tall Ships Festival

Tall 2010 Tall Ships Festival

The Ocean Institute presents the largest annual gathering of tall ships on the West Coast the weekend of September 10th through 12th. The event kicks off on Friday evening, from 5 to 7 p.m., with The Tall Ship and Great Schooner Parade. The festival continues Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Certainly the highlight of the festival, The Tall Ships parade commences in South Laguna Beach and the flotilla slowly appear off the Dana Point Headlands. The fleet gathers in preparation for entering the harbor around sunset. From shore, watch the crews of the Tall Ships furl the sails and make preparations for entry into the harbor. All this furious activity occurs while the crews are defending themselves from the cannon blasts of renegade vessels. Participating Tall Ships and Great Schooners will include the “Spirit of Dana Point,” “Pilgrim,” “Irving Johnson,” “Curlew,” “Californian,” “Exy Johnson,” “American Pride,” and “Lynx.”

Come and explore the majesty and wonder of tall ships through the smells, sounds and sights of real working vessels. Walk aboard and tour these living museums or take a cruise to experience the sensation first-hand. Interactive living-history encampments, including knottiers, blacksmiths, scrimshaw artists and the infamous Port Royal Privateers are sure to entertain and amaze guests of all ages. Visitors can also participate in knot tying races or witness the spectacular art of traditional rope work.

Visit the Ocean Institute during the festival to explore their work protecting the local watersheds through hands-on labs and art activities and get up-close and personal with some of the ocean’s most amazing sea creatures, including rays, sea stars, jelly fish and octopuses. Travel back in time to the seafaring world of Richard Henry Dana Jr. as the Dana Point Historical Society reads aloud his famed novel, Two Years Before the Mast, and learn the history behind the city of Dana Point.

Live music concerts will take place at Baby Beach throughout the festival on Saturday and Sunday. The air will be filled with sea faring’s best music. Sea chanteys, forebitters, ballads and more will be performed, featuring nationally acclaimed musicians and storytellers. With a spectacular view of the tall ships, the grass park and Baby Beach host a fun-filled variety of activities. Check out the unique fine arts and craft show that has continued to grow each year, offering a fabulous array of creative works. Last but not least, enjoy the delicious variety of foods and tasty treats offered in the food court.

Visit www.tallshipsfestival.com for admission prices, event information and cruise tickets.