All aboard! Canada’s largest sailing tall ship is making a stop in Buffalo as part of War of 1812 Bicentennial celebration.

Originally a British deep sea tug, the “Empire Sandy” is the last of 1,464 “Empire” ships built or acquired for war service during WWII that is still serving with her original name. The impressive ship will be visiting Canalside late in the evening on August 6 (ETA 9 to 10 p.m.) through August 8.

At 200 feet overall, 11,000 square feet of sail, 740 tons, and double cannons on deck, this authentic replica of a 19th-century three-masted schooner will offer a unique experience with a historical flair that commemorates the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 and Star Spangled Banner. 

Dockside tours will be available on August 7 from noon to 9 p.m. and on August 8 from noon to 5 p.m. Tickets are $5 per person and children age 12 and under are free.

A VIP party with food, drink and music will also be held onboard August 8 from 6 to 8:30pm. Tickets are $30 per person and $50 per couple and can be purchased at the Naval & Military Park Gift Shop, by calling 716-847-1773 x10 or emailing .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). Be sure to plan ahead for this event because the ship has a 275-person capacity.

“The Naval & Military Park received a grant to bring Canada’s Empire Sandy to Buffalo as part of our War of 1812 Bicentennial celebration,” said Park Executive Director Patrick Cunningham.  “ Having a ship of this size and illustrious history will draw thousands of people and excitement to Buffalo’s waterfront.”

For more information on the ship and the event, head over to the Buffalo Naval Park’s website.