Belfast, Northern Ireland has been chosen as the finishing port of the Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge in 2009. The annual race organised by Sail Training International brings together some of the worlds finest tall ships. The first race was held in July 1956 from Torbay on the English south coast, to Lisbon in Portugal. Since then the event has flourished and now involves 70 to 100 vessels from 20 countries.

Four thousand young people are given the opportunity to join the professional crews to live life on the ocean waves. The purpose is to give them an unforgettable experience and to promote friendship and understanding between different nationalities and traditions.

This year’s event is based in the North Atlantic covering some 7000 nautical miles, following the traditional trading routes of sailing ships over the centuries. Starting in Vigo, Spain in late April they will sail to Charleston on the US East coast, via Tenerife and Bermuda. From Charleston they will follow the East coast to Boston before reaching further north to Halifax in Canada. From Halifax they will cross the Atlantic to arrive in Belfast in mid August for the grand finale celebrations. The fleet will include 12 'Class A' vessels which are the largest of the tall ships and include square-riggers and classic sailing ships.
Belfast has big plans for the arrival of the Tall Ships, last seen in Northern Ireland in 1991 when 400,000 visitors swarmed the Pollock Dock to visit the ships. This time around Belfast is expecting far in excess of 400,000 visitors and have arranged a four day Maritime Carnival of street music, street theatre, fireworks and international food and drink markets. If it's anything like the last time, it is sure to be an extravaganza for all ages.