Canadian Destinations

Tall ships to visit Halifax next summer

Next summer, just as in days of yore, the flap of sails and the creak of cordage will be heard as square rigged sailing ships arrive in Halifax Harbour.

More than 35 of the world's most unique and historic sailing vessels will gather at the Nova Scotia port from July 13 to 16 in the Tall Ships Challenge, the largest gathering of tall ships in North America in 2007. Tall ships are large, traditional square rigged and fore-and-aft rigged vessels, including topsail schooners, brigantines, brigs and barques. They are manned mainly by crews of young people 16 to 25 who are taking part in sail training.

A tall ship arrives in harbour.

The ships will be accompanied by a fleet of traditional Maritime schooners and private yachts to celebrate Nova Scotia's maritime heritage.

(Visitors will be able to view the tall ships from both land and water, including the spectacular Parade of Sail. They can also board the vessels and meet the crews from around the world.

(In addition there will be a shore-side festival of entertainment, food and fun, with a pirate day camp for the younger mariners.

Not only that, you can hear and see a cannon battle between ships.

Also taking place in Halifax at the same time as the Tall Ships Challenge is the TD Canada Trust Atlantic Jazz Festival Halifax, which features more than 450 local, national and international performers, from July 13 to 21, plus the Musique Royale, a summerlong celebration of Nova Scotia's musical heritage.

For further information about the Tall Ships Challenge call 902-405-7700. For Nova Scotia Travel information call 1-800-565-0000 or go to www.novascotia.com.