Tall ships heading for Stornoway

Stornoway Port Authority is preparing to welcome the Tall Ships into Stornoway harbour from this morning.

Stornoway is one of the designated guest harbours for ships participating in the Cruise in Company leg of the Tall Ship Races 2011 – presented by Szczecin and organised by Sail Training International.

So far twenty two ships, including some of the world’s largest sailing ships, are due to arrive in the port between Thursday and Friday, with the first ships expected this morning (Thurs).

The Swan will arrive around 2am with the Eendracht berthing (carrying some of the local trainees) berthing about 7.30am.

The Eendracht will be leaving on Thursday afternoon but will be open to the public while she is in harbour from about 10.30 am. She will be berthed at the East side of No 1 Pier (opposite the Muirneag).

Pipers will greet the ships upon their arrival in the harbour and a variety of events have been planned to welcome the ships including performances by Samba Ya Bamba and dancers on Thursday and Friday evening as well as a laser lights display which will take place over the harbour on Friday and Saturday night.

Chief Executive of Stornoway Port Authority, Jane Maciver said: “We will be doing all we can to let people know when ships will be arriving as we want to encourage everyone to join us in giving these ships a warm Hebridean welcome. We can’t give an exact timetable right now as everything is weather-dependant but we do hope to be able to give at least an hours’ notice.”

She added: “Many of the ships will be open for the public to visit while they are in port. We encourage people to take advantage of this opportunity to discover more about these magnificent vessels. This should be a fun event for all the family – please enjoy it in safety – and keep well clear of pier edges.”

The ships are expected to depart Stornoway over the weekend. A formal parade of sail will take place on Saturday afternoon as some of the ships leave.

The Tall Ships Races are presented by Szczecin and organised by Sail Training International - a charity with a purpose in the development and education of young people, regardless of nationality, culture, religion, gender or social background.

The Mir is one of many sailing ships visiting Stornoway

Tall ships heading for Stornoway 14/7/11