International Tall Ships on Liverpool Waters

The international fleet of Tall Ships continues to make its triumphant return to Liverpool waters. This year marked the fifth time Liverpool has hosted these historic vessels and during Capital of Culture year an estimated one million people packed the banks of the river to catch a glimpse of the parade of sail. The prestigious event is organised by Sail Training International. The race, which is a celebration of international friendship and understanding, represents countries from all over the world. From the one million people who are estimated to have seen the Tall Ships on the Mersey during their four days in the city, it brought in a boost to the local economy of almost £10million.Liverpool’s experience includes hosting the Tall Ships Race and the Irish Sea Tall Ships Regatta in August 2012.  This, together with the city’s outstanding reputation for staging other maritime-related events such as the Three Cunard Queens visit in 2015 and the annual International Mersey River Festival, ensured it became a host city for 2018.Other activities include the “Changing Tides” creative programme of international and local artworks, installations, music, dance and theatrical performances commissioned by Culture Liverpool and part funded by Arts Council England.From 60ft masted schooners to private yachts, the ships are an absolutely stunning sight and give visitors the rare opportunity to ‘come on-board’ for a closer look at these incredible vessels as well as bringing the local community together.