It was a remarkable sight in the Halifax harbour on Tuesday: more than 25 tall ships gliding across the city鈥檚 coastline, their sails snapping in the cool Atlantic breeze.
The Parade of Sail brought tens of thousands of spectators down to the shore to get a glimpse of the boats.
鈥淚 love it, it鈥檚 so cool. It鈥檚 just like Pirates of the Caribbean,鈥� one spectator told CTV Atlantic.
The ships docked in Halifax last week. They鈥檙e participating in the , an international race that covers 10,000 nautical miles and brings sailors from around the world to Portugal, Bermuda, France, the U.S. and Canada.
The Halifax leg of the journey was celebrated with nightly fireworks, buskers, culinary events and other celebrations. The spectacle was held as part of ongoing Canada 150 celebrations.
Hotels have been booked solid in the city, but the event鈥檚 economic impact to the local economy won鈥檛 be known until figures are released this fall.
Jennifer Angel, acting president and CEO of Halifax Waterfront Development, said the event has been a success.
鈥淚t鈥檚 sad to see them go. This is what the waterfront is all about and we couldn鈥檛 be happier with the last few days,鈥� Angel said.
The majestic vessels come from far and wide, including Germany, Finland, Latvia and the South Pacific nation of Vanuatu.
Nova Scotia鈥檚 Bluenose II -- a replica of the famous schooner featured on the Canadian dime -- made an appearance as well.
Spectator Mike McPhee said the event was a rare up-close glimpse of the Maritime province鈥檚 nautical past.
鈥淲ell I guess it鈥檚 going back to our history and the way things used to be,鈥� McPhee said.
The tall ships have already made stops in Ontario, New Brunswick, P.E.I. and Quebec.
After sailing out of Halifax, some of the ships will make their way to Sydney, N.S. over the coming days. Others will begin gearing up for a trans-Atlantic race to France.
With files from CTV Atlantic
