Tall Ships' Races

Ahoy there! Get your sea legs on and head to Liverpool this month, where the city is the host port for the start of the Tall Ships' Races. The Tall Ships fleet will be berthed in Liverpool from Friday 18 - Monday 21 July, and their arrival will trigger a 4-day free maritime jubilee celebrating Liverpool's 800-year history on a World Heritage waterfront.

The Tall Ships' Races are held every summer in European waters. Each year between 70 and 100 vessels from 15-20 countries, crewed by around 6,000 young people from over 30 countries take part in this extraordinary race. This unique event consists of 4 days of activities in each port, races and cruising-in-company in between ports.

During the races, the young crews have the chance to gain experience on a Tall Ship (sailing ship) by sailing to different countries across rough oceans.

While the ships are berthed in Liverpool's docks, you'll have the chance to climb on board, meet the crew and explore the ships. The big day of celebrations is Monday 21 July, when you shouldn't miss the Parade of the Sail - the defining moment of the Tall Ships' visit to Liverpool. Expect stunning views in the afternoon as the ships line up in the River Mersey, led by HMS Liverpool, before parading out of the River to the start of the challenging 11-day race to Maloy in Norway.

The start of the Tall Ships' Races is a great event for all the family, and an exciting chance to get up close to some beautiful ships. For more information on the start of the Tall Ships' Races, visit Liverpool 08 - Tall Ships' Races (www.liverpool08.com/sport/news/details.asp?id=1113).