Classic Tall Ship

The vessels, also known as schooners, will sail to Grand Cayman to take part in the Quincentennial Seafarers Festival, taking place 9-11 May where the public will have the opportunity to tour their facilities and learn more about these impressive-looking craft. The tall ships will also participate in the Parade of Sail on Saturday, 10 May alongside local boats and yachts, and their crews will attend a church service on Sunday, 11 May at Elmslie Memorial Church.

Used for coastal work and ocean voyages, and able to haul anything, from lumber to apples, tall ships have also been utilized as pleasure craft, cargo carriers, privateers, slavers, fishing boats and pilot boats. Today, most tall ships are charter ships, school ships, or historical replicas.

At least five schooners plan to drop anchor in Hog Stye Bay for the Seafarers Festival. The Meka II, Larinda, Serenity, Wolf and Rain Dancer are expected into port during the week starting May 5th and people will be able to purchase a passport during the Festival which allows them to board the ships and meet the crew.

“The Seafarers Festival promises to be a most enjoyable three-day event. Caymanians are very proud of their maritime heritage and this pride will be clearly displayed for the entire world to see during the Festival,” says Angela Martins, Executive Director of the Quincentennial Celebrations Office.

Other highlights of the Seafarers Festival include the construction of a Fisherman’s Village – Cayman of Yesteryear - which will feature old Caymanian buildings, a Memory Lane of old Cayman and numerous displays including fishing net and fish pot exhibits and rope making and knot tying demonstrations. There will be an abundance of local cuisine and partakers will be able to watch their food being prepared and cooked in a caboose. A spectacular laser light and fireworks show is planned and will be set against a backdrop of musical entertainment provided by several bands. Festival-goers will also enjoy watching quadrille dancing, Maypole plaiting, an old time kitchen dance and a fascinating reenactment of Columbus’ landing on the shores of Grand Cayman.

The Seafarer’s Regatta is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 10th May immediately after the Parade of Sail comes into the harbour, at which time His Royal Highness Prince Edward will declare the festival open and start the regatta. A gospel concert on Sunday night will conclude the weekend’s festivities.

“We know that anyone who visits the Seafarers Festival will have a wonderful time!” says Mrs. Martins. “We have ensured that there is something for everyone, young and old alike.”

For more information about the Festival, visit the Quincentennial Celebrations website or call the QCO on 946 9992.

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