Published: Friday, 14th April 2017

Glenn Tilbrook and a spell-binding dance and visual performance from Avanti marked the official opening.

With 30 magnificent Tall Ships moored on the banks of the River Thames throughout Greenwich and Woolwich offering visits and cruises, along with a vast array of family-friendly activities, the Rendez-Vous Tall Ships Festival truly offers something for everyone.

Still to come

A stunning farewell fireworks display at the Royal Arsenal riverside in Woolwich is scheduled for 9.45pm on Saturday, 15 April (dependent on weather and conditions)‎.

The fleet of Tall Ships taking part in the Parade of Sail on the River Thames at Deptford Creek and Maritime Greenwich, on Sunday 16 April. The ships depart Greenwich at 5pm, passing Woolwich at around 5.45pm, and will be visible along the whole of the borough's riverfront.

Visitors can join the queue to get on board ships moored at Woolwich Pier from 9.30am to 4.30pm free of charge. For ships moored in the river at Greenwich, tickets are available on the day to visit the ships via the Greenwich Pier shuttle service running from 9.30am to 4.45pm. The tickets cost £10 for adults, £8 for children under 16 and £30 for a family (two adults and two children).

Saturday's entertainment

On Saturday 15 April the Tall Ships festivities will also be taking place on Eltham High Street. From 10.30am onwards, there'll be musical performances at Passey Place, by:

  • Brothers in Swing
  • Pete Hicks
  • Decks & Quartz
  • Santino Fabbricatore
  • Make a Noise Choir.

'Unique opportunity to enjoy the Tall Ships'

Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Councillor Denise Hyland, said: "The Rendez-Vous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta offers a unique opportunity for residents and visitors from far and wide to enjoy these magnificent Tall Ships first hand. There is still so much to see and do throughout Woolwich, Greenwich and across the borough - set sail with us this Easter weekend for a once-in-a-lifetime experience."