Courtesy Photo Alliance, one of the two tall ships that will be part of Sail Into Your Sanctuary Aug. 14 to 17, is seen sailing on the water.

ALPENA — Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary will host Sail Into Your Sanctuary, featuring historic tall ships, from Aug. 14 to 17 in Alpena.

Sail Into Your Sanctuary is a four-day event that begins at 9 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 14 at the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center and along the Thunder Bay River, where the ships will be docked. The event is in partnership with Tall Ships of America.

Tall Ships of America states that their mission is to build character through sail training, promote sail training, and support sailing education. Uses of sailing ships range from treatment centers for adjudicated youth to corporate team building exercises, according to Tall Ships of America.

The organization explains that sailing teaches teamwork, leadership, resourcefulness, and more.

Tall Ships of America defines tall ships as large, traditionally rigged sailing vessels. TBNMS stated in a press release that two tall ships, Appledore IV and Alliance, will be offering 90-minute sails for $55 per person, multiple times a day. The ships will sail out into the Sanctuary waters.

Tickets for Alliance and Appledore IV can be purchased at thunderbayfriends.org.

During the event, there will be free deck tours, family activities, and a paddleboard, canoe, and kayak race on the Thunder Bay River.

According to TBNMS, the tall ships offer a glimpse into the sanctuary’s maritime heritage. Participants can play the part as sailors or just enjoy the ride. Sails are appropriate for all ages.

Sarah Morrison, TBNMS media and outreach specialist, said that TBNMS is looking forward to the festivities.

“We are excited to partner with Tall Ships of America to bring schooners Alliance and Appledore to Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary,” Morrison said. “They are like floating history, allowing us to get a glimpse and small taste of the shipwreck century that helped shape Alpena. Whether people stop by to see the vessels up close, take advantage of the free deck tours, or purchase a ticket for an interactive 90-minute sail, it will be a great learning experience and of course … fun!”

FULL EVENT SCHEDULE

THURSDAY, AUG. 14

— Sails available at 9 a.m., noon, 3 p.m., and 5 p.m.

FRIDAY, AUG. 15

— Sails available 9 a.m., noon, 3 p.m., 5 p.m., and 7 p.m.

— Free deck tour of Alliance from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

— Dork Brothers Battle of the Paddles race on the Thunder Bay River from 5:30 to 7 p.m., followed by awards and a reception from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Eventgoers can view the race from the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center rooftop deck with beer, wine, and cider available for purchase. Participants will begin at the Rotary Bridge and complete the course with a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. Those interested in competing in the race should register at thunderbayfriends.org.

SATURDAY, AUG. 16

— Sails available at 9 a.m., noon, 3 p.m., 5 p.m., 7 p.m.

— Family events are held at Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center from 2 to 5:30 p.m. Events include a story walk, in partnership with Alpena County Library, chalk art and coloring, and movies.

— Free deck tour of Alliance from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

SUNDAY AUG. 17

— Sails available at noon and 3 p.m.

Kayla Wikaryasz can be reached at 989-358-5688 or kwikaryasz@TheAlpenaNews.com.