Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for places to stay?

Check out Brockville Tourism Places to Stay

Failure What can I expect from this year’s festival?

This year’s Tall Ships Festival is bigger and better than ever! With a larger fleet of breathtaking ships, expanded interactive experiences, and exciting new activities for all ages, we’ve worked hard to make this festival truly unforgettable. From hands-on exhibits to immersive ship tours, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We can’t wait for you to experience all the maritime magic we’ve prepared!

What if it rains?

The ships will be here rain or shine. This festival will take place rain or shine. Our ship crews aren’t afraid of a little water and we aren’t either! Deck tours will be available even if it is pouring.

Do I need life jackets for my child/children?

Children 5 and under will need to provide their own life jackets for the sail-out cruises. Life jackets are not required for other activities.

What is the age requirement for a sail out? Can my child go for free on a sail out?

The cost of those cruises is priced based on the total ship capacity and therefore every person on board requires a ticket. Children require a regularly priced ticket for sail outs, including babes in arms. Children that are under 5 are free for grounds admission and deck tours but not for sail outs.

What’s the difference between the evening sail outs and the parade of sail cruise?

The Parade of Sail Cruise is a unique opportunity to be a part of the festival opening “Parade of Sail” from onboard the Empire Sandy. The parade of sail is when all of our participating tall ships and other vessels sail past Brockville’s waterfront and is the best opportunity to see these ships with their sails up and take photos of them on the river. During the rest of the festival, the ships will be docked for deck tours so this is the best time to see them on the water. This unique sail out offers the opportunity to be on board the Empire Sandy during the parade and be part of the action and get some unique photos that those on land will not be able to experience. The parade of sail cruise is also slightly longer than the evening sails.

Can I exchange my sail out ticket for a different time?

No. All cruises and other tickets are non-refundable with no exchanges. This is a rain or shine event.

Does my child need a “Boarding Pass” for deck tour?

Children under 5 are free but they will not be issued a Passport or wristband. They are permitted on deck tours accompanied by a Boarding Pass holding adult.

Are dogs allowed?

Attendance is at your discretion, keeping your dog’s comfort and safety in mind. Please note, dogs are not allowed on the ships. While we provide water stations to ensure your pet’s well-being, please be aware that there may be cannon fire from the ships and the event does attract large crowds. Dogs must be leashed, well behaved and cleaned up after at all times. Failure to comply will result in penalties, including fines or removal from the festival.

Additional Information

Do you have another question you don’t see here? Please email info@tallshipsbrockville.com or call Brockville City Hall at 613-341-2220 for festival inquiries.

Frequently Asked Questions