By Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday June 28, 2013
Ahoy, tall ships arriving
If you hear cannons blasting on the bay Friday afternoon, don’t be alarmed.
It will be friendly fire to signify the start of an amazing weekend of maritime history.
Between 2 and 4 p.m., six majestic tall ships from around the world will sail into and around Hamilton Harbour in a stunning display of marine history to officially begin the Tall Ships Hamilton event.
As each vessel enters the bay, those with armaments will fire their cannons in salute and the Haida, a Second World War destroyer permanently docked at Pier VIII, will blast return charges from its four-inch guns to welcome the arrival.
Unfortunately, rain is expected during the Parade of Sail, but officials say they plan to continue with as much of the ceremony as possible. The ships will be on display Saturday and Sunday at Pier 8. (Source: Hamilton Spectator)