Hundreds Watch as Tall Ships Dock in Presque Isle Bay

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By Christyn Allen

ERIE, Pa. (Erie News Now) – It was elbow to elbow excitement on Dobbins Landing in Erie, Pa. for the Parade of Sail Thursday afternoon.

“We came out to see the tall ships. I got the pirate bandana and sword for my nephew, so I figured I would dress up as well,” said Brett Ploss, holding his nephew waiting for the parade to start.

Hundreds of people looked on from land as all seven tall ships come to port in Presque Isle Bay. “They do a fantastic job here, as far as the crowd, and the show itself. It’s great to see what Erie does for this event,” Dave and Diane Varsottini told Erie News Now.

For many, it was their first go around in attending Tall Ships Festival. People traveled from all over to experience the majesty.

Sandy and Mike Vehmeier drove four hours from Binghamtonl, NY, for the weekend. “We’ve heard about this festival for quite a few years, and just never came to see it. We do a little sailing in a small boat, but we just love ships.”