A fleet of tall ships demonstrate their seafaring power, beauty at Tall Ships Challenge

Oxnard, CA -- (SBWire) -- 06/16/2011 --Tall ships are coming to Channel Islands Harbor. A total of seven tall ships will weigh anchor at the harbor as part of the American Sail Training Association’s Tall Ships Challenge race series. These majestic ships will be open for visitors to explore Jun. 24-26.

While at the Channel Islands Harbor, people of all ages can climb aboard the decks and relive the ships’ colorful history through docent stories. Battle re-enactment sails, a pirate camp, Civil War encampment, tours and educational programs are also part of the festivities. Visitors can also enjoy live entertainment as well as arts & crafts and food and beverage from the many vendors.

Some ships visitors can explore include the Californian, the Official Tall Ship Ambassador for the state of California. Built in 1984, it is a replica of the speedy 1847 Revenue Cutter, the C.W. Lawrence. The ship is 145 feet long, 101 feet tall and with all nine sails flying, carries 7,000 square feet of sail.

The Spirit of Dana Point is a traditionally built replica of a 1770s privateer employed during the American Revolution. The ship is classified as a 118-foot topsail schooner, with a sparred length of 118 feet and 5,000 square feet of sail.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for seniors and kids 12 and under. Cash ticket sales will be available at the festival. Credit card purchases will be available online at http://www.tallshipschannelislands.com and through Ticketmaster. For more information on the Tall Ships Challenge, visit the Channel Islands Harbor website at http://www.channelislandsharbor.org.