Tall Ship Festival in Dana Point

Friday, September 7 – Sunday, September 9 at Ocean Institute in Dana Point Harbor

The Ocean Institute's annual celebration of historical tall ships sails back into Dana Point Harbor this September. Celebrating California’s rich maritime history this extraordinary event takes place each year the second weekend in September. 7-9. Witness history come alive as crews from each ship, along with historical re-enactors, engage the public in cannon battles, pirate adventures, mermaid encounters ,ship tours, and so much more. 

Schedule of Events:

Friday

• Sails ‘n Ales on Friday (6:00 pm -9:00 pm): Craft beer tasting from five (5) different California breweries, live music, mermaids and prime viewing for Parade of Sail!
• Parade of Sail On Friday, September  (4:00 pm-7:30 pm): Join the armada as you cast off for adventure aboard a historic tall ship during the annual tall ships parade at sunset.  Work with the crew hauling up sail or simply sit back and enjoy the spectacular demonstration of skill, knowledge and survival!

Saturday & Sunday:

• Mermaid Breakfast (9:00 am-10:30 am): Join our mermaid friends for brunch, storytime, and under the sea crafts! 
• Festival (10:00 am-4:00 pm): Tall Ships tours, pirate adventures, mermaid encounters, unique vendors, Sierra Nevada Beer Garden, and more await for you at the 34th Annual Festival. For a full list of activities, please click here.  
• Cannon Battles (4:00 pm-7:30 pm): Enjoy blasting cannons, towering rigging, bustling decks, and the magnificence of a canvas full of wind during a Cannon Battle! Work with the crew hauling up sail or simply sit back and enjoy the spectacular demonstration of skill, knowledge, and survival!! Guests ages 4 and older can end their Tall Ships Festival experience with a bang during an exciting mock cannon battle.