Two traditionally rigged tall ships are set to sail into Liverpool on Friday, May 29, as part of a special expedition linking Falmouth and Pellerin.
The vessels are expected to arrive at Canning Half Tide Dock around midday, where they will remain for three days of events and activities aimed at engaging communities across the city.
One of the ships, Spirit of Falmouth, was previously known as Spirit of Merseyside after being built by unemployed young people from Liverpool more than four decades ago. The ship remains a well-loved part of the region’s maritime heritage.
The visit forms part of the Full Circle Expedition, a 2,000-mile voyage around the UK carrying the Invictus Games flag to 23 ports ahead of the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027.
Crewed by a rotating team of 70 wounded, injured and sick (WIS) veterans and serving personnel, the expedition aims to celebrate the resilience of the armed forces community while encouraging engagement with veterans across the country.
Founded by Prince Harry in 2014, the Invictus Games uses the power of sport to support the recovery and rehabilitation of wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women, bringing together competitors from around the world.
During the Liverpool stopover, the Invictus Games flag will be handed to the City of Liverpool and raised in recognition of the crew, local veterans and all those preparing to compete in the Games.
The expedition is being coordinated by local veterans’ sailing charity Turn to Starboard in partnership with Invictus Games Birmingham 2027.
The challenge is also helping to raise £500,000, which would allow the charity to purchase a second tall ship and expand support for veterans experiencing PTSD, physical injuries, isolation and loss of confidence.
You can support the charity here.
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