Tall Ship Festival To Offer Rides This August

By Anna Deem in News on May 8, 2010 7:00PM

More than 20 tall ships from all over the world are set to dock at Navy Pier for the Tall Ships Chicago 2010 festival, taking place Aug. 24-29, for the first time since 2006. With the purchase of a ticket, festival goers will be able to sail on several of the ships for the first time in the history of the event.

"Previously, the most they could do is board the ship and look around," said Jon Kaplan, director of public relations for the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority, which owns and manages Navy Pier, to the Chicago Tribune. Four of the ships will offer 60 and 90 minute rides, he said.

Younger festival goers will also be given the opportunity to learn about sailing and speak to the crews on the ships in a new youth-oriented program that is being introduced at this year's festival. Kaplan revealed to the Tribune that there will also be fireworks and international music and food at the festival. Tickets are available now.