Family Fun

The world's most famous Tall Ship, star of the silver screen and ports around the world, takes center stage at the Victoria Tall Ships Festival, June 26-29.

The Bounty, built in 1960 for MGM's Mutiny on the Bounty starring Marlon Brando, makes its first appearance in Victoria in nearly two decades. The 180-foot (54 metre) square-rigged three-master was constructed in Lunenburg, N.S., based on the original ship's drawings still on file in the British admiralty archives.

"The ship is steeped in history. It'll be a real thrill for people to walk her decks and think of Captain Bligh and his mutinous crew, one of the greatest sea stories of all times," said Bob Cross, President of the Victoria Tall Ships Society.

The Kaisei "Ocean Planet" is the third Class A ship to join the festival lineup. The 151-foot (45 metre) brigantine has sailed under the UN flag due to her international crew and global partnership mission. More than two dozen of the world's finest Tall Ships are confirmed for the festival.

Two new history-themed activities at this year's festival mark the province's 150th anniversary as a Crown Colony.

Maritime Mosaic, organized by the Maritime Museum, is a multi-cultural showcase featuring more than 20 ethnic groups, hosting cultural exhibits, interactive displays, and performances on the festival site.

Festival-goers can enjoy a taste of B.C.'s past at History Bites food pavilions. Local chefs offer up historically inspired "Bites" from the 1830s until today, including early Jewish and Chinese food, Gold Rush fare, and Afternoon Tea.

In addition to touring the ships docked in Victoria's beautiful Inner Harbour, the event features a wide variety of dockside activities including a pirate school and interactive learning centre, live music, and mock-cannon battles each evening.

To purchase tickets and for more information, visit www.tallshipsvictoria.ca.