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Liverpool is the host port for the start of The Tall Ships' Races 2008. The race has not been to the UK since 2005.

The arrival of the Tall Ships fleet will trigger a four-day free maritime jubilee celebrating the port's 800-year history on Liverpool's spectacular World Heritage waterfront.

The ships can be seen from Quayside, Albert Dock, Canning and Canning Half Tide Docks Parade of sail can be viewed from the Wirral and Sefton coastline.

Essential Information
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Essential information for Tall Ships - Whats On

Friday 18 July: 10am - the event opens with quayside events and activities throughout the day.

Saturday 19 July: 11am - event opens with quayside events and activities and cultural visits programme throughout the day

Sunday 20 July: 10am - event opens with quayside events and activities and cultural visits programme throughout the day

Monday 21st July: Parade of Sail - the Parade of Sail is the defining moment of the visit of the Tall Ships to Liverpool. 8am onwards - class A ships start departing from Wellington and Sandon Half Tide docks to River Mersey

12.30pm onwards - class B, C and D ships start departing from Albert Dock, Canning and Canning Half Tide Docks

2pm (approx) - during the afternoon the ships will sail south and line up in the River Mersey. Expect stunning views as this spectacular fleet commences on the parade north out of the River Mersey and to the start of the challenging first race to Maloy (Norway). It is expected that HMS Liverpool will lead the parade and the official "Parade Salute" will be taken from the flight deck of HMS Ark Royal. Best views will be gained from the Wirral side of the Mersey.

Access to Ships: Please note Tall Ships are officially closed to the public in the north end docks on Monday 21 July but ships in the south docks may be open to the public in the morning.

Special park and ride facilities will be provided for the event - details tbc

Visitors are advised to use public transport where possible. Driving within the city centre will be severely restricted for the duration of the event weekend.

If you are wishing to stay over this major event, please book your accommodation now either on-line or by calling our Accommodation Booking Service on 0844 870 0123 to save disappointment.

This page will be updated frequently - please visit again for further details.