Tall Ships festival to attract 250,000

Neans McSweeney, South-East Correspondent

As many as 250,000 visitors from all over the world are expected for the four-day event which should generate over E30 million in Waterford and the south-east region.

It’s the first time the Tall Ships Race has begun in Ireland and the organisers have put in place a family-centred festival billed as the country’s top summer event.

More than 3,000 crew members from 21 different countries will join the crowds from today and wander through the historic city, enjoying free music from seven open-air stages.

John Noonan from the Tall Ships Committee said they were hoping the event will leave a lasting legacy for Waterford and the entire south-east area.

The ships will berth on the city’s quays, allowing visitors a chance to get up close to the world-class vessels. While other pleasure craft have been barred from the marina area until the Tall Ships have berthed, harbour master Captain Phillip Cowman said everyone will be welcome from this afternoon.

“Safety is paramount. We have issued advice and notices. Jet-skis are banned and we’ve set a speed restriction in the area where the ships are berthed. We expect a very safe and enjoyable few days,” he said.

The 87 ships will include the Russian vessel, Kruzenshtern, which is 113.5 metres in length, and the three Irish entrants the Dunbrody, Jeanie Johnston and Asgard II. The Dewaruci, an Indonesian tall ship, which was adopted by Waterford City Council following last year’s tsunami disaster in south-east Asia, will also be taking part.

The race begins from 7am on Saturday when the first of the Tall Ships will sail down the River Suir. The three Irish Tall Ships, the Asgard II, the Dunbrody and Jeannie Johnston will lead the parade.