Ships to Shore Steveston 2012 is proud to present a trio of classic tall ships this Canada Day weekend. From Friday, June 29 to Sunday, July 1 visitors can take a walk down memory lane by reliving the days when Richmond’s Steveston Village was a major port-of-call for several different fleets of sailing ships that came from destinations all over the world.
This year, expect to be blown away by the 46-metre (151-foot) Kaisei, which is a California-based ship which is dedicated towards scientific research. Kaisei is critical for research, and is the figurehead of “Project Kaisei” which is an international program looking for solutions to marine debris issues. Kaisei has also been helping track debris from last year’s Japanese tsunami. When Kaisei comes to Richmond next week, visitors will be able to learn more about the environmental research conducted on it, by the ship’s crew, as well as enjoy the beauty of the ship!
Hawaiian Chieftan, the Canadian Navy’s colourful HMCS Oriole, the Mallory Todd and Grail Dancer, will also be joining the Kaisei this coming weekend. Ships to Shore will take place in the heart of Steveston Village, with the docking of the ships to be at Imperial Landing, which is right by the wooden boardwalk by Bayview Street and No.1 Road.
Ships To Shore will commence at 10 am until 5 pm on June 29 and 30, and from 12:30 am to 5 pm on Canada Day, July 1. Boarding is free but space is limited!
Also, while you’re viewing these magnificent ships, why not check out the 67th annual Steveston Salmon Festival, better known as Canada’s biggest little birthday party. This free event is great for everyone in the family, it features:
- Canada Day parade
- Children’s Festival
- Entertainment
- Food Fair
- Signature Salmon Barbecue
- Carnival rides
- Open access to Britannia Heritage Shipyard and the Gulf of Georgia Cannery
Parking is always tight and limited during this event, and some roads will be closed on Canada Day, so be sure to transit, cycle, walk or car pool if possible!
