Tall Ships Return to Toronto Waterfront Festival This June — Here’s What to Expect
The Toronto Waterfront Festival is bringing back the beloved Tall Ships event this summer, offering rare access to historic sailing vessels from around the world. The festival runs June 28–29, 2025, at Sugar Beach, marking the first appearance of the fleet in Toronto since 2019.
This year’s event will include deck tours, sail-away experiences, family-friendly programming, and several new ships making their Toronto debut.
What Are the Tall Ships?
Tall Ships are traditionally rigged sailing vessels known for their historical design and educational value. Many were built decades ago and serve as working museums. Visitors can tour these ships, speak with their crews, and learn about their unique stories.
New Ships Joining the Fleet
Three historic vessels will dock in Toronto for the first time:
- Lettie G. Howard (built in 1893): A “living history” schooner used for education and maritime training
- Ernestina-Morrissey: Famous for its role in early immigration and transatlantic voyages
- Liberty Clipper: Modeled after a revolutionary-era ship named by John Hancock
Returning ships include:
- Empire Sandy: Canada’s largest passenger tall ship
- Pride of Baltimore II: A vessel with a global legacy, having visited more than 40 countries
Set Sail on the Empire Sandy
For those eager to go beyond the deck, the Empire Sandy offers public sail-away experiences:
- Four sailings daily, including a sunset cruise
- Tickets must be purchased in advance
- It’s the only ship at the festival offering this experience
This is a rare chance to sail on Canada’s largest tall ship, complete with crew interaction and panoramic views of Lake Ontario.
More Than Just Ships: What Else Is Happening?
The festival isn’t limited to the waterfront piers. Activities extend into Sherbourne Common and include:
- Interactive exhibits by the Royal Canadian Navy, Canadian Armed Forces, and Canadian Coast Guard
- Displays by Live Green Toronto and Moccasin Identifier
- Food vendors, giveaways, and live performances
Admission to the event is free, but deck tours and sail-away tickets require advance booking.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Sugar Beach, 11 Dockside Drive, Toronto
Dates: Saturday, June 28 & Sunday, June 29, 2025
Time: Daytime tours and evening sails available
Admission: Visitors enjoy free general entry, but you must purchase tickets for deck tours and Empire Sandy sailings.
To secure your spot, visit the Toronto Waterfront Festival website and purchase your tickets early.
The 2025 Tall Ships Festival brings maritime history to life in downtown Toronto. With rare ships, hands-on activities, and the chance to sail aboard the Empire Sandy, this is one summer event not to miss.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a sailing fan, or simply looking for a scenic waterfront outing, mark your calendar for June 28–29.
More…
- https://towaterfrontfest.com/?utm_source=pressrelease&utm_medium=newswire&utm_campaign=launch
- https://www.toronto.com/news/historic-tall-ships-return-to-toronto-waterfront-festival-in-june-heres-whats-new-and-how/article_d526bc5a-a2b5-50ba-838a-564fb48fb68e.html
- https://www.instagram.com/towaterfrontfest
