We're back! Introducing Parade Of Sail 2021

2019 Parade of Sail © Doug Thost

The news is out! We're back, and what better way to start the year than with wind in our sails. We would like to introduce the Parade of Sail 2021, to be held on Sunday 7th of February 2021 on the River Derwent.

The Parade of Sail is one of the most spectacular and popular events during our biennial festivals, anyone can be involved, even if you don't have a boat and that's why it is loved so much! Some of the best viewing points are from easily accessible spots along the shores of the River Derwent including Alexander Battery Park, Long Beach Sandy Bay, Wrest Point and anywhere near the wharf. We can practice social distancing and still have a great day out. Any excuse for a sail, right?

So get onboard your wooden boat or your friend's wooden boat, whether it's motorised or wind powered, we want to see as many boats as we can out on Sunday 7th February.

We are also looking into options for berthing before and/or after the event, so stay tuned for more details as well as a confirmed sailing route and departure time. We told you we wouldn't give up that easy so save the date and start scrubbing those decks.

If you're a wooden boat owner, please register your interest to participate in the Parade Of Sail 2021 by emailing with your name, boat name, email and phone number. We have extended the original EOI cut off date, we just want more boats!

If you're a spectator, grab the kids, grab the picnic basket and head to the shores of the River Derwent. Try and count the boats, we dare you!

The Maritime Trail 2021

What's better than one great announcement? Two of course!

Matt Morris working on his Tarkine build - photo © Matt Morris

Save the date - on the 10th and 11th April we will be inviting you to discover places you never knew existed before. You'll be given the rare opportunity to find the origin of wooden boats, speak with the great people who design and build these boats and try your hand at varnishing in a tucked away boat shed. We will have guided boatyard tours, marina adventures showcasing classic wooden boats, Tall Ship sailings and heaps more.

This visionary has been something we have wanted to bring to life for sometime and COVID-19 has given us the perfect opportunity to get this off the ground, considering we all can't come together to Sullivan's Cove this festival. By spreading the love across the state, heading to regions rarely seen, you might be surprised at what you discover. By dispersing our crowds among the state, we are encouraging people to stay the day, have a look around, buy an ice-cream or souvenir from the local shop. It will allow us to celebrate the past, present and future of wooden boats and maritime culture with our community, in a safe manner.

Whether you're a diehard fan of wooden boats, an enthusiast or a family wanting a nice day out, whatever floats your boat, there will be something for you.

If you are a wooden boat owner and want to showcase your pride and joy during the Maritime Trail, register your interest by sending an email with your boat name, marina/mooring location, phone number and email address.

We are so excited to invite you on the journey! A full program will be released in March, in the meantime keep an eye on our socials for sneak peaks...