Waveney District Council is delighted to confirm the visit of the magnificent Tall Ship, The Mercedes to Lowestoft from May 1 to May 4.

An impressive 50 metre long vessel with no less than 900 square metres of sails, the Mercedes will be making only five visits to the English Coast in 2008 and will offer 3-hour sea tours out of Lowestoft during its residency. The tours will include a welcome from the captain & crew, a sails demonstration and lessons on seaman knots for children.

Built with the very highest safety standards according to new European guidelines, the Mercedes was originally an ocean fishing vessel built in the late 1950s, redesigned to sail on international waters.

Darren Newman, Waveney’s Service Manager - Tourism & Events said: “We have worked closely with APB and the ship’s owners to bring her to Lowestoft and we are proud to provide a temporary home for such a beautiful vessel.”

Trips take place on the following dates:

• May 1st: 15:00-18:00, 19:00-22:00
• May 2nd: 15:00-18:00, 19:00-22:00
• May 3rd: 15:00-18:00, 19:00-22:00
• May 4th: 15:00-18:00

Although there will be no public access to the docks whilst the Mercedes is in port, members of the public will be able to view the ship from the South Pier each day as it leaves and enters the port. There may also be the chance to see the ship in full sails from the coast.

Tickets go on sale from Friday 11th April 2008 and our priced at £40 per adult and £20 per child; family tickets are also available for 2 adults and 2 children at £100.

Further information and tickets are available from Lowestoft Tourist Information Centre at the East Point Pavilion or call 01502 533600.