Preparations are underway for the 16th annual Richmond Maritime Festival on Saturday and Sunday, July 27 and 28.
Tall ship gun battles, scenic waterfront heritage, wooden boats and entertainment are part of the free, family fun at this summer’s festival at the Britannia Heritage Shipyards.
The festival brings to life the eight-acre shipyards into a colourful, nautical-themed playground with artists, storytellers, dancers and hands-on activities happening in every nook and cranny.
Everyone is invited to view an impressive gathering of West Coast water vessels along the 600 feet of floating docks, including the opportunity to board and explore impressive tall ships like the Lady Washington and the Hawaiian Chieftain.
This year, in addition to the day-time festival, the Richmond Maritime Festival will offer special evening outings out on the water.
Guests can purchase their tickets now to take part in a Tall Ship Gun Battle or a sunset dinner cruise aboard an authentic paddlewheeler.
On Friday July 26 and Sunday July 28, from 6 to 9 p.m., a thrilling Tall Ship Battle, featuring the Lady Washington and the Hawaiian Chieftain will take place off the shores of Garry Point Park.
Featuring booming cannons, close-quarters maneuvers, and a taste of 18th century life aboard tall ships, guests can experience the ships in action as they vie to win the battle.
For $80 a ticket, you can watch the action aboard a ship. Go to RichmondMaritimeFestival.ca/tall-ship-battle-sail.
For those who prefer to watch from land, optimal viewing will be at Garry Point Park, with a selection of over 20 food trucks.
On Saturday, July 27 from 6 to 9 p.m., a three-hour evening buffet cruise along the Fraser River onboard the M.V. Native, an authentic replica of a paddlewheeler, can be had for $130 each. Go online to Richmondmaritimefestival.ca/paddlewheeler-sunset-dinner-cruise.
Festival hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 27 and Sunday, July 28. For more details, visit Richmondmaritimefestival.ca.
