Tall ships return to Maritime Festival next weekend

The Ocean Institute is bringing tall ships, cannon battles and hands-on maritime experiences back to Dana Point Harbor for the 42nd annual Maritime Festival, happening September 11-13.

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Photos courtesy of Ocean Institute

A tall ship fires its cannon during a previous Maritime Festival

The three-day event celebrates Dana Point’s maritime history with historic sailing ships, educational programs and family-friendly activities that let visitors experience California’s seafaring past.

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Visitors explore artisan booths and festival offerings

Visitors can board historic ships like the Spirit of Dana Point, Bill of Rights, Curlew, Mayflower, Irving Johnson and Exy Johnson. The festival also features live cannon battles, sailors showing traditional skills, pirate camps, mermaid encounters, artisan vendors, live music and local cuisine.

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Families enjoy some of the entertainment on offer at the Tall Ships Festival

“Ocean Institute was founded on the belief that the best learning happens through experience,” Robyn Takeshita, the institute’s director of education, said in a statement. “The Maritime Festival embodies that philosophy by inviting guests to experience our maritime heritage where it happened. Whether they’re climbing aboard a historic tall ship, watching a live cannon battle, exploring our marine science exhibits, or seeing their children become pirates for the day, every experience is designed to spark curiosity, celebrate our coastal heritage and inspire the next generation of ocean stewards.”

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Tall ships sail off the Dana Point coast

Now in its 42nd year, the festival supports the Ocean Institute’s mission to preserve and share Dana Point’s maritime heritage, while inspiring future generations to care for the ocean and coastline. Festival Adventure Passes include tours of the tall ships, entry to the Ocean Institute campus, touch tanks, interactive marine science exhibits and other educational activities.

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A young festivalgoer dressed as a pirate takes the helm of a historic sailing ship

During the festival weekend, visitors can use the expanded morning service on the Dana Point Trolley, making it easier to get between the Ocean Institute, Dana Point Harbor and festival events.

The Maritime Festival takes place September 11-13 at the Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive. Festival Adventure Passes, cannon battle experiences, tall ship sails, escort cruises and other ticketed activities are available. Visit www.maritime-fest.org for tickets and more information.