The historic UK coastal town of Falmouth, Cornwall, has today (Wednesday 18th November) announced it will host the start of the prestigious Tall Ships Race in August 2021.

At its annual online conference, Sail Training International, the global organisers of Tall Ships events and races, endorsed Falmouth as the 'Race Start Partner' of this iconic race, one which will also commemorate 500 years since the first circumnavigation voyage around the world.

The maritime event will mark the sixth time Falmouth has hosted the tall ships, with the inaugural one for the town being held in 1966.

Given current surrounding circumstances related to COVID and potentially necessary social distancing and safety measures, the 2021 Falmouth event will be operationally innovative, whilst adhering to all necessary Government guidelines.

Reacting to the announcement Falmouth Town Mayor, Cllr Steve Eva said:

"This really is fantastic news for the town and Falmouth Town Council is only too pleased to support.

"Credit must go to the efforts and behind the scenes negotiations by our team in Falmouth for securing this event for the benefit of our community, businesses and visitors alike.

"We have a strong pedigree in delivering memorable tall ships races and regattas over the years; they really hold a special place in the hearts and minds of so many. We greatly look forward to viewing the ships under full sail in Falmouth Bay once again."

Tall Ships Falmouth 2021 will be underwritten by Falmouth Town Council, with financial support from its key partners Falmouth Business Improvement District (BID) and Falmouth Tall Ships Association.

The exciting event will be organised by the Falmouth Town Team - the partnership between Falmouth Town Council's Town Management function and Falmouth Business Improvement District (BID), Falmouth Tall Ships Association and Sam Groom Director of Perfect Events Group (PEG).

The Falmouth Harbour Commissioners as in previous events will provide 'on the water' logistical management.

The new event format will welcome around 40 vessels into the sheltered, deep waters of the vibrant port town. Tall ships from various nations will arrive prior to the 19th August race start date (subject to weather, tides and other factors).

The 2021 event will see the introduction of water-based inner harbour tours to view the tall ships out in their 'natural' surroundings, as there will be no public access onto the ships.

This up-close opportunity, on the water, rather than on land, will offer a unique and unforgettable experience.

The traditional Tall Ships Captain's Dinner will take place at the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club, while visitors to Falmouth will enjoy a varied shoreside programme, organised by the Town Team and South West Bars and Events.

Then on Thursday August 19th and prior to the start of the tall ships race from Falmouth to A Coruna in Spain (a Royal Naval Vessel will also be present on the start line), a spectacular Parade of Sail will take place around the stunning natural amphitheatre of Falmouth Bay, creating a wonderful spectacle for those watching on water or from the many vantage points along Falmouth's scenic coastline.

Touching upon the economic impact of such events, Falmouth BID Manager Richard Wilcox added:

"This is another brilliant example of the partnerships that work so well in Falmouth, coming to the fore to secure this opportunity. These events are not only wonderful occasions, thanks to the hard work of many individuals, organisations and volunteers but they provide a significant economic boost as well."

Click here to see more from The Tall Ships Race.

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