Make waves at this larger-than-life tall ship festival coming to Richmond

One of the world’s largest tall ships is journeying to Richmond this spring, and to celebrate, the city is hosting Ships to Shore at Garry Point Park on May 2 and 3.

This free family-friendly festival is a unique cultural and maritime experience for nautical enthusiasts and curious visitors alike, and we have everything you need to know in order to plan your visit.

Return of the Kaiwo Maru

Kaiwo Maru

The Kaiwo Maru is finishing an incredible month-long journey across the Pacific Ocean, stopping in Richmond for the first time since 2017.

Based in Yokohama, Japan, the Kaiwo Maru is a sail training vessel that trains future navigators and engineers. It spans 30,000 square feet, boasts 36 sails, and is home to 140 cadets and crew on any given voyage.

The last time the Kaiwo Maru docked in Richmond, over 75,000 visitors flocked from across the region to see her. If there’s one thing that draws people together, it’s a big boat!

Set sail for Steveston

City of Richmond

To mark the Kaiwo Maru’s much-anticipated return, the Ships to Shore festival invites visitors to view the ship, enjoy dockside entertainment, and learn about Richmond’s fascinating maritime history.

Three stages in Garry Point Park will host live performances, including headliners such as top 40 cover band Cookin’ With Brass, seven-piece Filipino showband Coco Project, Canadian Folk Music Award singer-songwriter Ginalina, and children’s favourite Oh Clementine.

Visitors are also invited to reach new heights in the Sails in the Sky field, which will host both kite professionals and local enthusiasts demonstrating their aerial skills.

Meanwhile, the Kid’s Cove is a dedicated space for young visitors to explore and play through hands-on workshops like traditional fish painting (gyotaku), origami, woodcarving, and carp streamers (koinobori). If you’re inspired by any of these creations, you’ll want to check out the Maker’s Corner, where you can browse a selection of stalls featuring Japanese artisanal goods and unique local crafts.

On top of the special festivities and workshops, the festival grounds will be home to plenty of interpretive panels, multicultural food trucks, roving performances, and more.

Viewing the ship

City of Richmond

There will be a number of tickets available for visitors to board and explore the Kaiwo Maru on May 2 and May 3, with limited boarding opportunities on May 4. But don’t worry if you don’t manage to get a ticket – everyone is welcome to view the ship from the dock and the park.

The festival is totally free to attend, so bring your friends, family, and fellow nautical nerds down to Garry Point Park on May 2 and 3 for a free celebration of history, culture, and really big boats.

Ship to Shore: Kaiwo Maru

Where: Garry Point Park, 12011 7th Ave., Richmond
When: Saturday, May 2, and Sunday, May 3
Cost: Festival is free to attend, with limited ship boarding for $10.29 (+ GST)