Special Boarding Passes Available in Advance

For the first time at a tall ships event, Nova Scotians can buy special boarding passes in advance for ships visiting Halifax from July 29 to Aug. 2, during Tall Ships Challenge 2004.

From now until July 28, a limited number of passes can be purchased at a special cost of $10 (including HST). The pass allows onboard access to the ships that charge admission and is valid from Thursday, July 29 to Sunday, Aug. 1. Day passes will also be available onsite during the event. These passes are $10 each and are valid on the day of purchase only.

"People love to board the ships and talk to the crew about their adventures. These advance passes will help ensure you get on board and at a very reasonable price," said Eric Thomson, chair of the Waterfront Development Corporation. "Although you don't need a pass to board all ships in the fleet, it does guarantee that you will be able to visit all of the spectacular vessels during their four-day visit."

The boarding passes are available:

• online at www.halifaxmetrocentre.com;
• at the Halifax Metro Centre Box Office, Monday-Friday, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.;
• charge by phone 902-451-1221;
• at 14 participating Sobeys outlets (cash only).

There is an additional service charge on each ticket purchased over the phone, at Sobeys or online. Children under the age of 12 can board all ships free.

More information about Tall Ships Challenge 2004 and the boarding passes is available on the website at www.novascotia.com/tallships under Schedule, and on CBC's website at www.cbc.ca/tallships2004 .

Tall Ships Challenge 2004 - A Salute to l'Acadie is being presented by the Waterfront Development Corporation. The event is being sponsored by the province, Halifax Regional Municipality, Grou Tyme Acadian Festival, Aliant, Atlantic Lottery Corporation, Alexander Keith's, Sobeys, Casino Nova Scotia, Captain Morgan, The Herald, McCain, Pepsi and Atlantic Photo Supply. CBC is also a sponsor and the host broadcaster for the event.