Tall Ships Charleston 2007 will feature the Charleston Maritime Festival on land and majestic tall ships from around the globe on water. Many of the world's most famous classic tall ships will descend on the waterfront starting May 17, 2007 to be viewed from several waterfront locales. Governor Sanford will greet the ships and that evening honor the Captains and Naval Officers at the Governor's Celebration of Sailing.

Tall Ships Charleston is an official port of the Tall Ships Challenge series managed by the American Sail Training Association (ASTA). In fact Charleston is the very first port of this multi-ship voyage traveling north up the eastern seaboard. Tall ships from around the globe will gather here to celebrate the launch of the Spirit of South Carolina ship, before departing for Norfolk, Virginia, Newport, Rhode Island, and finally Halifax, Nova Scotia. Each port will offer an amazing opportunity for the public to view the classic beauty of these ships and visit with sailors from around the world. From the official Naval tall ships of South America measuring 300+ feet overall to the understated elegance of the smaller ships, it will be a chance to showcase the importance of continuing the legacy of sail training.

The Tall Ships will be open for tours and Maritime Festival grounds will be open from Friday, May 18th –Sunday, May 20th from 10am to 5pm daily. Participating in a Tall Ship tour will offer a unique chance to board the ships, meet the crew, and witness a true cultural exchange. Entrance to the festival grounds is FREE, but a boarding pass is required to tour the Tall Ships. Passes are $10 per person, 10 years and under are free. Passes are valid for all three days and may be purchased by clicking here.

The FREE Charleston Maritime Festival on land will include pirate camps, classic wooden boat displays, sailing, rowing, children's village, family boat-building, maritime art, music, food and more. Key features also include a launch celebration of the Spirit of South Carolina tall ship and the start of the Charleston to Bermuda yacht race. Free family fun in the heart of Charleston!