We hope that visiting crew members, tourists and residents all have a wonderful time enjoying the magnificent spectacle that is the Tall Ships Bermuda Festival 2017. The Port Committee has spent hundreds of hours designing activities to appeal to everyone, so please take advantage of all that is happening throughout the festival.

Ron and I first became involved with the Sail Training Association of Bermuda and its Tall Ships event in 2000, to celebrate the Millennium, and then again in 2009, to celebrate Bermuda's 400th anniversary. Initially, our motivation was to be involved in a fun and interesting celebration, but over the years we have come to appreciate the uniqueness of Bermuda's Tall Ships events.

Of all the celebrations that occur in Bermuda, Tall Ships is distinctive in its appeal to the entire community. Regardless of your age, gender, race, nationality, politics or religion everyone enjoys the grandeur of these stately reminders of our maritime past! It is a joy to watch parents and grandparents take their children aboard a vessel and to see the look of wonder and joy on everyone's faces as the child stands behind the wheel or when they gaze up at the intricate web of lines and sails.

Enjoy your time at the Tall Ships Bermuda Festival, which is part of the Rendezvous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta.

Cindy Campbell (chairman, Tall Ships Bermuda 2017)

Ron Campbell (deputy chairman)