Whitehaven is playing host to its first tall ship visit for a few years next week with the return of Roy Kerr, skippering his ship La Malouine.

She will arrive on Tuesday, August 9, and stay for a couple of days with the arrival time expected to be on the mornings slack tide. 

The visit is being organised by Whitehaven Town Council and supported by Whitehaven Harbour Commission and Marina Projects Whitehaven and the ship will be open to visitors wanting to get their tall ship experience.

The La Malouine is a twin masted French Brigantine tall ship, registered in the Port of Dumfries and last visited Whitehaven during the ever popular Maritime Festivals.

She will be berthed on the Sugar Tongue and is looking forward to receiving visitors of all ages. 

Skipper Roy Kerr said: "We are really looking forward to it as we always get such a lovely reception in Whitehaven. It’s such a friendly port and visitors are always interested in the ship and its history.

"It will be nice to update folk on our recent extensive travels as well, so please do pop along for a catch up."

READ MORE: Businessman Gerard Richardson says Whitehaven is still open ahead of road works

Gerard Richardson local businessman and member of the Town Council event committee said: "I'm delighted that Roy could squeeze us in. This has been a long time in the planning and tall ships just make the town buzz.

"They really are perfect for the town and it’s always lovely to see crowds down there taking photos and having a chat. Well done to all involved and lets hope we can build on this to get the town back on the Tall ships radar."

John Baker, CEO Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners: "We are delighted with this news. Tall ships and Whitehaven just go together so well and the La Malouine is an old friend of the harbour and it’s always especially lovely to welcome old friends back.

"I hope it brings people into the town to enjoy the visit and with luck, we can have more of the same in the future."