Considering Pensacola’s celebrated maritime history, the announcement by Tall Ships America® that it is bringing the first official TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE® Gulf Coast to downtown Pensacola in April isn’t surprising. Pensacola is one of only three host ports—and the only Florida port—included in the Gulf Coast series of Tall Ships® races and port festivals happening over a three-day period from April 12-15 at Plaza DeLuna, in partnership with Visit Pensacola. The grand event includes onboard tours, sail away adventures, VIP viewing parties and receptions, entertainment, food and vending booths.

TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE® is an annual series organized by Tall Ships America to promote the sail training experience, foster international cultural exchange and keep alive the rich maritime heritage represented by the tall ships community. In between visits to a number of maritime festivals the tall ships take part in races, crewed by young people who may never have sailed before, running educational programs that help them to develop both personally and professionally.

The fleet of traditionally-rigged ships includes the magnificent, three masted top sail schooner Oosterschelde. Built in 1918, it’s the largest restored Dutch sailing ship and considered a monument for Dutch shipbuilding and maritime navigation. Click here to follow the crew in real time as they sail to Pensacola! 

[PHOTO: Arthur op Zee / Provided by Visit Pensacola]