It’s maritime culture we celebrate this week with two major events happening on the river this month.

CLIPPER RACE FINALE takes place on July 5 when the Mersey hosts the climax of an epic ocean adventure in July with the return of the Clipper 07-08 Round-the-World Yacht Race. The race is the world’s fastest, non-professional, yachting race with a flotilla of boats following the yachts up the Mersey to the finishing line. Cheer on the Liverpool 08 Yacht. For more details contact www.liverpool08.com

THE TALL SHIPS’ RACE 2008 takes place around Albert Dock, Liverpool, July 18 - 20 Enjoy the biggest gathering of tall ships anywhere in Europe this year as over 70 sailing vessels fill Liverpool’s quaysides and docks, berthing in the Wellington and Albert docks.

Climb aboard to find out more about the realities of life at sea, or enjoy the waterside location with live music, performers and displays to enjoy. The three-day maritime festival culminates with the start of the Tall Ships’ Race 2008 on 21 July as the ships begin their parade of sail and their journey to Norway.

For visitors travelling to the Tall Ships’ Race by car, please note that there is no parking within the Wellington Dock, Regent Road area of the city. Please use Park and Ride sites or City Centre car parks, and the shuttle bus service. Visit the Tall Ships’ Race website for more travel information. For more details contact www.tallshipsliverpool.co.uk