News Release

CARAQUET (GNB) – Three tall ships will sail into Caraquet June 30 to July 2 as one of several Canada 150 celebrations taking place across the province.

“Our government is committed to making New Brunswick a top tourism destination for both visitors and residents, with innovative tourism products that offer unique and authentic experiences, and the tall ships are a significant part of our summer tourism experiences and our Canada 150 celebrations,” said Caraquet MLA Hédard Albert. “I invite all New Brunswickers to Caraquet and the surrounding area this summer to experience the Village historique acadien, our beautiful beaches, the historic Miscou lighthouse, and our Acadian hospitality to name a few. And I invite the people of the Acadian Peninsula to discover other areas and experiences of our beautiful province.”

Albert attended for Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister John Ames.

The visit, part of the Rendez-Vous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta Guest Ports Programme, will allow people to tour the vessels and participate in festivals and events in the community. The provincial government is investing $38,000 to bring the tall ships to Caraquet.

“We encourage visitors from near and far to join us this summer and see the many experiences the Acadian Peninsula has to offer,” said Premier Brian Gallant. “We are excited the tall ships will stop into Caraquet for all to see.”

The Rendez-Vous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta is a roughly 13,000-kilometre transatlantic race, visiting seven countries. As part of the Guest Ports Programme, 40 vessels will visit more than 30 Canadian ports. About 3,000 people aged 15-25 will be aboard the vessels.

“Caraquet has always been known for its maritime character, and it is quite an honour for us to welcome these majestic ships,” said Caraquet Mayor Kevin J. Haché. “We hope this opens the door to our hosting other events of this kind.”

The tourism industry is an important job creator, employing more than 42,000 people in New Brunswick, and it contributes more than $520 million annually to the provincial GDP. The budget for the Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture increased by 17.6 per cent this year. In addition, a capital investment of $75 million will be made over the next three years for upgrades to assets of cultural and historic significance.

As part of Canada 150 celebrations, people are encouraged to visit the Canada 150 NB website, use the hashtag #NBProud and follow @Canada150NB on social media and share why they are proud to be New Brunswickers.