Victoria Tall Ships 2008 FAQs

What are Tall Ships®?
Tall Ships® are sailing vessels that are traditionally thought of as the old square-rigged sailing ships like those seen in pirate movies. However, to be more precise, the Tall Ships® that will come to Victoria are boats that are fore and aft-rigged, as well as the traditional square-rigged ships. The vessels will range in size from 40 feet to over 300 feet.
 
When will the Tall Ships® be in Victoria and where will they be moored?
The ships will arrive in the Inner Harbour on June 26th, 2008. They will all rendezvous outside the Inner Harbour on the 26th  for a "Parade of Sail" around 11:30am on that day. They are expected to depart on June 30th . The vessels will tie up at Ship Point and the Wharf Street docks. As we get closer to the event a map showing the location of each ship will be available.
 
How many ships will be coming to Victoria?
About 25 vessels will participate from various parts of BC, the US and the world.
 
Will I be able to go aboard the vessels?
The public are able to purchase passes that will allow boarding.   Check the Ticket section of our website for more information.
 
What other events will take place while the ships are in port?
In addition to touring the ships, the festival will feature a wide variety of dockside activities – from a pirate school, interactive learning centre and maritime marketplace to live music as well as mock-cannon battles each evening. There will be something for everyone to enjoy

Are the vessels handicap accessible?
Floating docks and ship gangplanks are unstable as they move and shift with the winds and tides. Use of these facilities by strollers or wheelchairs could be dangerous and will not be allowed during the festival.
Tall ships are designed and constructed to historical specifications rather than modern accessibility standards such as you now find on cruise ships. There is no provision on the tall ships for wheelchairs, strollers, or people with balance problems who are unable to cope with moving surfaces and decks without guard rails.

Are pets allowed on the site?
Pets will not be permitted on any of the festival venues with the exception of assistance dogs.  

Is there a safe place to secure my bike?
For a nominal fee, the Victoria Tall Ships Festival is encouraging people to cycle to the event by offering secured bike storage for up to 300 bikes. This will be located west of the Tourism Information Centre , at 812 Wharf Street ,adjacent to the festival grounds. 

 How can I get involved?
Volunteer with the Tall Ships Festival by completing the on-line volunteer form. Our staff will be in touch with you about your specific area of interest and orientation sessions.
 
Who is producing the Victoria Tall Ships Festival?
The Festival is produced by the Victoria Tall Ships Society, a registered non-profit society.