Falmouth Tall Ships Regatta reached it climax today

The hugely popular Falmouth to Royal Greenwich Tall Ships Regatta reached its climax earlier today with the evocative Parade of Sail

The regatta has drawn almost 50 ships, including a dozen square-rigged tall ships from across Europe, to the Cornish port. And tourist numbers, keen to see the ships up close while they are alongside, have not disappointed with some 35,000 people a day being visiting the town.

Another 100,000 people were said to have lined the coast to witness the ships as they leave the port for arace to the Isle of Wight. The crews, more than half of which are young people, will then head on to Greenwich.

John Hick, chairman of Falmouth Tall Ships Association, said: “This event is like no other the town has ever seen – being even more spectacular than its 2008 predecessor."

“Ships and the sea is such a huge and significant part of Falmouth’s, and indeed Cornwall’s, heritage and this year’s stunning event is a real honorary celebration of our proud history."

“With ships coming in from all over the world, the Falmouth Tall Ships Regatta 2014 has showcased true Cornish hospitality at its very best to our global friends, visitors and sailing colleagues.”

The race was started by the Royal Navy off shore patrol vessel, HMS Severn. Its commanding officer, Lieutenant Commander Steven Banfield, it as veteran of tall ships racing.

The picture is a fabulous aerial photo of the #TallShips during their #ParadeofSail earlier today! Please share with family + friends #loveFalmouth Credit Mike Ward