Orange County Real Estate and Events Information.

In celebration of California’s rich maritime history, the Ocean Institute annually hosts a fleet of historic tall ships that sail into Dana Point Harbor.  This extraordinary event takes place each year the second weekend in September.  History comes alive, as crews from each ship, along with historical re-enactors, engage the public in cannon battles, pirate adventures, mermaid encounters , ship tours, and much more.

Where: Ocean Institute - Dana Point

When: September 7-9, 2018

What to expect: feel like a pirate! Come hungry for a special 'Mermaid Breakfast' . This a crowd favorite and tickets sell out every year.  Tour the ships, watch 'real life pirates' and come aboard the 'Spirit of Dana Point'.

Mermaid Breakfast (9:00 am-10:30 am): Our special mermaid friends deliver a one-of-a-kind breakfast experience. Meet our mermaid friends, make a fun mermaid craft, enjoy pancakes, and watch our mermaids swim underwater! Family fun for all mermaids at heart.

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. 

Cannon Battles (4:30 pm-7:30 pm): Come aboard the Spirit of Dana Point and the armada of ships as they set sail to engage in the Festival’s most exciting and captivating experience. Join the crew as they harness the power of the wind to maneuver and position themselves to gain the advantage.

For more information, visit the Ocean Institute's Tall Ships Festival.