International Ships Sail Into Tampa Bay In July, Tours Available

Celebrating the maritime history of Tampa Bay, international sailing ships will dock in downtown Tampa July 10-14 for Sail Tampa Bay 2010.

The 5-day festival will include the U.S.C.G. Eagle from the United States, Captain Miranda from Uruguay and the Gloria from Colombia. The event will feature live music and dockside tours of the ships located at the Tampa Convention Center and Channelside Channel. Sail Tampa Bay 2010 is made possible under the guidance of Tampa Bay and Company, which leads efforts to gain "Economic Development Through Tourism."

The event begins with the "Parade of Sail" at the Tampa Convention Center on July 10 from 11am-1pm. The ships will be open for tours from 2 to 9 pm. Attendees will have an opportunity to see these vessels up close by boarding the ships, and attendees will have a chance to interact with the crew and experience daily life on a sailing ship.

From July 11-13, tours will be scheduled between 11am-7pm, and the event will end with closing ceremonies on July 14.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $3 for children ages 3-12 (combo tickets that include admission and food are available for $15 for adults, and $8 for children ages 3-12). Tours of the U.S.C.G. Eagle will be available at no charge.

Writer: Nancy Vaughn
Source: Paul, Catoe, Tampa Bay and Company