Tall Ships at Cape Charles Steering Committee
As an official affiliate port for OpSail 2012 Virginia™, Cape Charles and her sister towns on Virginia’s Eastern Shore present an unprecedented boutique visitor experience commemorating the War of 1812 and the writing of the Star Spangled Banner.
For the first time, Eastern Shore communities of Cape Charles, Onancock and Tangier Island are participating in this type of event. Visitors of all ages will be treated to a rich panoply of events encompassing nearly 50 miles of our pristine coastline.
Beginning June 8, 2012 and continuing through June 12th, Cape Charles, our deep water “Harbor To Hospitality” presents a rare opportunity to get up close and personal as you explore the decks and meet the costumed crews of three magnificent Tall Ships. Each will be open for public visitation free of charge. In addition, you may book day-sails on each of the vessels at specified times throughout the long weekend.
The Tall Ships will be surrounded and welcomed by a bevy of other craft of every conceivable kind and shape: buy boats, sloops, skipjacks, Navy and Coast Guard vessels, private yachts, kayaks, dinghies and even paddleboards!
This is small town America the way it used to be. Explore our historic villages, watch fireworks “by the dawn’s early light”, join professional musicians singing sea chantys and other rollicking tunes; view historical re-enactments, art shows, and plays. Kids may make and sail a model boat, go on pony rides, or try their hand at hauling the yard-arm. Everywhere savor our succulent seafood and revel in our spectacular sunsets.
Cape Charles (photo courtesy of Chris Glennon)
