Over the Memorial Day weekend, the Piscataqua Maritime Commission is sponsoring Sail Portsmouth 2011,  featuring the Gazela Primeiro. The Gazela, a three-masted, square rigged barkentine  built in 1883, is said to be the world’s oldest active wood hulled sailing vessel.  Joining the Gazela will be the the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Flying Fish.

Sail Portsmouth 2011- Tall ship Gazela Primeiro

Beautiful tall ships, including the 177-foot high Portugese ship ‘Gazela Primeiro,’ and the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Flying Fish will be docked at the state pier on Market Street.

The Flying Fish, an 87-foot coastal patrol boat based in Boston, Mass., joins the historic Barquentine Gazela, built in 1883, and Portsmouth’s own Gundalow, the Edward H. Adams.

The weekend will commence Friday morning at 9 a.m. with a boat parade starting from buoy 2KR. Enjoy the majestic beauty of these ships as they reach the state pier around 10 a.m.

Welcoming ceremonies will begin at noon and tours will start at 1 p.m. The boats can be also be toured Saturday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m Also enjoy educational exhibits, shanty singers and more.