Tall Ships Races 2023: Falmouth festival gets under way

The Mexican Navy tall ship Cuauhtemoc

A festival to mark the start of one of the Tall Ships Races 2023 has officially got under way in Cornwall.

The event is being hosted in Falmouth for the sixth time, until Friday, and features live music, parades and food stalls.

Up to 12 of the ships due to compete in the race arrived on Monday and visitors are allowed to climb aboard.

The Magellan-Elcano class vessels' race begins on Friday, with legs in A Coruña and Cádiz, Spain and Lisbon, Portugal.

Dar Mlodziezy, the Polish ship, arriving in Falmouth

Ships that are in port include five Class A square-rigged ships.

Events in Falmouth also feature an arts and crafts market.

Tall Ships Race sailor Mackenzie Williams, said participating in the event was a "once in a lifetime opportunity".

"I've done little bits of sailing out in the bay, but I wanted a real experience, and to spend six days at sea and sail to Spain is a once in a lifetime opportunity," he said.

"I'm a little bit nervous but it's cancelled out with excitement."

Up to 12 of the ships due to compete in the race are in port in Falmouth and welcoming visitors aboard

Cat Cusack, who is also taking part, said it was a "completely new experience".

"The Tall Ships is all about getting young people into sailing," she added.

Richard Gates, lead organiser, said: "It's really about camaraderie and people working together and developing their skills."

The race begins on Friday