Get your “sea legs” ready for this weekend. The Tall Ships are here! The Tall Ships festival, which runs through July 14, features a fleet of replica and restored ships from the U.S. It provides a rare experience for families.
The festival, which last came to Cleveland in 2013, provides opportunities for attendees to tour the ships, talk to the crew, and enjoy a maritime festival, which includes live music performances, festival food and beverage options. Guests also can take a 90-minute excursion on Lake Erie, and learn more about the maritime heritage of North America.
This fleet of historic tall ships includes the S/V Denis Sullivan. Recently, I went aboard the tall ship after the Project YESS students — a program by the Rotary Club of Cleveland for ages 13-17 to develop teamwork, leadership and navigational skills — got back from their weeklong sailing adventure.
According to tallshipcle.com, The S/V Denis Sullivan, owned and operated by Discovery World Ltd., was completed by over 900 volunteers in 2000. This replica of a Great Lakes schooner, and Flagship of Wisconsin, operates as a floating classroom and goodwill ambassador for the State of Wisconsin. The homeport is in Milwaukee.
Walking on the S/V Denis Sullivan, I felt that I was taken back to another time. The ship provides more than a history lesson — it’s also a great reminder to kids about water and boat safety.
Visit tallshipscle.com for more information and tickets.
