could be one of the most stirring sights of the year.

Tourism is hoping to raise the number of vessels taking part in the Tall Ships 2000 Race to top the 100 mark.

And on a recent visit to London, Tourism Minister David Allen and department officials attended meetings in a bid to increase the number of competitors taking part.

It is understood that their ultimate aim is to add another 20 to 30 ships to the list.

The current number stands at between 70 and 80, but Tourism officials hope their move will bear fruit. Next June 9, the ships are expected in Hamilton, where they will remain until June 12.

There will be various events during their stay, and at one point all of the vessels will be moored alongside in Front Street.

The event begins in Spain in May, sailing to Bermuda and then on to the east coast of America. Following that, the vessels will call at Halifax, Canada, before heading back to Amsterdam, Holland.