Barrow-in-Furness, 5th and 6th August - The Barrow Tall Ships 23 Event recently concluded its two day extravaganza, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of nearly 20,000 attendees. This unparalleled celebration of maritime heritage brought together maritime enthusiasts, art enthusiasts, and families from across the region, resulting in an unforgettable experience for all.
The vibrant quayside served as the epicentre of excitement and joy, resounding with the melodies of traditional shanty songs. Attendees were treated to an immersive experience with an extensive display of school and community art paintings, which beautifully captured the essence of the sea and its captivating creatures. Furthermore, the event showcased awe-inspiring sea creature statues made from recycled plastics, and fabric materials and a mermaid made entirely from recycled scrap metal - a testament to the Love Barrow Families and local artist Tom Jackson commitment to sustainability and environmental consciousness.
Visitors had the unique opportunity to embark on boat tours, exploring the dock and witnessing the grandeur of the tall ship Pelican of London, Tug Brocklebank, Bay Towage & Salvage Commercial boats, and an impressive line-up of sail boats, including The Hearts of Oak boat, all of which were on display at the ADEB site. Beyond the ADEB site attendees were invited to have a tour of a carrier ship operated by PNTL and AW Ship Management. These magnificent vessels acted as a backdrop to the event, instilling a sense of wonder and admiration in the hearts of attendees.
With a staggering turnout of 19,900 visitors over the two-day period, the Barrow Tall Ships 23 Event undoubtedly emerged as a resounding success. The event not only captivated attendees but also bolstered community spirit by creating a deep appreciation for our rich maritime history and the tireless efforts of those who preserve it.
David Cooksey & Andrew Naylor (Something Leisure Community Managers): “What can we say? All the hours of work invested into the planning of this year’s 23 event over the past year was truly worth it, the attendee numbers are amazing, thank you to everyone who came forward to be a part of the event, a very special thank you again our sponsors, supporters and
volunteers."
Adrian Ragbourne (Seas Your Future CEO): "It has been a delight to be back in Barrow again for the 2023 festival. Over the weekend we had 10,000 visitors aboard our tall ship Pelican of London learning about what we do and meeting crew and trainees. We continue to look forward to annual visits to Cumbria in the future offering youth development programmes through sail training to youngsters from the area."
The organisers would like to express their sincere gratitude to the Barrow Tall Ship 23 Event sponsors, BAE Systems/Barrow, ABP Associated British Ports/Barrow, Westmorland & Furness Council, and everyone involved in making this extraordinary event possible, Morrisons, Furness First Aid Association, Apollon Security Services, The Rotary Club of Furness, Barrow Transport Museum Trust Ltd, Something Leisure Community Event Marshals. Love Barrow Families, our supporters, Seas Your Future, The Dock Museum, Signal Films and Media, The Forum, AW Ship Management, Hearts of Oak Boat Trust, Cumbria Police, Lakes Loos, Piel Ferry, Duddon Canoe Club, Barrow Island Community Trust, Barrow Raiders, Barrow Sea Cadets, Paul Bibby & Co, Sea Shanty groups – Lytham St Ann’s & The Mizzen Crew, all the vendors and all the attendees. Together the unwavering support and dedication ensured that Barrow Tall Ships 23 Event became a monumental celebration that will be fondly remembered for years to come.
If you would like to get involved in next year’s tall ship event, please contact:
Something Leisure Community M: 07368 426789 E: office@somethingleisure.co.uk
