June 16, 2015
Nick Ut/AP
A giant inflatable rubber duck floats past the USS Iowa Battleship at the Port of Los Angeles on Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2014.
Tall Ships Philadelphia Camden is on its way, docking along the Delaware River Waterfront on Thursday, June 25 through Saturday, June 28. The four-day extravaganza of sailing ships and family fun gives guests the opportunity to step aboard grand vessels and explore life at sea.
Over a dozen international and domestic Tall Ships will be present, including historic replicas of El Galeon and L'Hermione and the official Tall Ships of Philadelphia and New Jersey. Ticketed onboard and sailing tours will be available for many of the ships, and the US Coast Guard Barque Eagle will be totally free and open to the public.
One more special vessel will be in attendance: the giant floating rubber duck sculpture designed by artist Florentijn Hofman. Though Tall Ships is certainly excited to have the 61-foot-tall attraction, Hofman told PhillyMag.com that the use of his duck was unauthorized and he is none too happy about it. Despite the controversy, the "World's Largest Rubber Duck" will float along the Delaware to delight festival goers.
Independence Seaport Museum, New Jersey Adventure Aquarium, the Battleship New Jersey, Historic Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley LEGOS Users Group all have special activities planned for the festival. Live entertainment will come courtesy of the Coast Guard Honor Guard & Silent Drill Team and live musicians. Of course, there will also be plenty of food and drink available.
