Your Complete Guide as Hull to Host Tall Ships Ahead of Invictus Games

There’s a real buzz around Hull’s marina this April, and for a very good reason. It’s not every day that two magnificent, old-school tall ships sail into the city. But this isn't just about seeing some amazing vessels. This special visit is tied to something much bigger: a journey of courage, a fantastic charity, and the build-up to the world-famous Invictus Games. It’s a story about veterans finding new strength at sea, and it’s an event that everyone in Hull can be a part of. The ships are on an incredible expedition around the UK, and Hull has been chosen as a key stop on their voyage.

A special visit from two magnificent ships

Get ready to see something straight out of a history book docking at the marina. Two traditionally rigged tall ships, the Spirit of Falmouth and Pellew, are set to arrive in Hull on Tuesday 14 April. Think massive sails, intricate ropes, and proper wooden decks – they’re seriously impressive. These ships are not just for show; they are on a massive journey, a special expedition that started down in Falmouth and is taking them all around the country.

Their stop in our city is a brilliant opportunity for the public to get a close-up look. Lord Mayor and Admiral of the Humber, Councillor Cheryl Payne, is certainly looking forward to it. She said:

“It will be really terrific to have these stunning tall ships docked at Hull Marina, and I look forward to welcoming the crew to our city.”

“I’m also really pleased that there will be a chance for the people of Hull to visit the vessels whilst they are here, where they will be docked close to the recently restored Spurn Lightship.”

So, it's a two-for-one piece of maritime history.

More than just a sailing trip

This whole adventure is called the Full Circle Expedition, and it’s a seriously inspiring voyage. The ships’ crew isn't made up of ordinary sailors. Instead, they are manned by a rotating team of 70 wounded, injured, and sick veterans and serving military personnel. This expedition is organised by the brilliant veteran sailing charity, Turn to Starboard. The charity does incredible work, using sailing to help veterans rebuild their lives after facing massive challenges. Think of it like this: learning to sail a giant ship with a team requires trust, communication, and focus. It’s a powerful way to build confidence and feel part of a team again, which can be a massive help when dealing with physical injury or feelings of isolation.

The Full Circle Expedition is making its way around the UK, stopping at 22 different ports before it returns to Falmouth in June. And this journey has a very special purpose. It’s all in partnership with the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027. The Invictus Games, founded by Prince Harry, uses the power of sport to help inspire recovery and support rehabilitation for wounded, injured, and sick service personnel and veterans. This voyage is helping to build excitement for the main event in Birmingham.

The Invictus Games flag and a warm Hull welcome

A key part of this whole expedition is a very important bit of cargo: the Invictus Games Flag. This flag is being carried on the voyage as a symbol of the spirit and determination of the veterans on board. As the tall ships arrive in Hull, the flag will be handed over to the city. It's a special moment, marking Hull's part in this nationwide journey towards the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027. The Lord Mayor will officially raise the flag at the marina, a brilliant public event for everyone to see.

This isn’t just a quick stop. The crew will be getting a proper welcome to the city of Hull. After the flag-raising ceremony on Wednesday 15 April, the Lord Mayor and the crew will visit the Hull4Heroes shop in Princes Quay. It’s a chance for the travelling veterans to connect with local veterans and share stories. This visit shows just how supportive the community is and highlights the incredible spirit behind the entire project.

How to get involved and show support

This is where everyone can get involved. The public has a fantastic chance to step aboard these amazing tall ships and see what they’re all about. It’s a free event, so there’s no reason to miss out. There’s even a special time set aside for veterans, reservists, and their families to have a private tour. This thoughtful gesture ensures those connected to the armed forces get a special welcome.

Sally Terry, the CEO of Turn to Starboard, explained the mission perfectly:

“While Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 harnesses the spirit of sport to inspire recovery and rehabilitation, Turn to Starboard draws on the unique challenges of life at sea to rebuild confidence, restore purpose and help veterans navigate life with intention and fulfilment.” She added, “More than a voyage, this expedition is a powerful story of courage, service and renewal, showing how adventure and the sea can heal, inspire and bring people together. We can’t wait to bring this inspiring message to Hull to reach more veterans and highlight their challenges and remarkable achievements.”

The voyage is also a fundraiser. The charity is hoping to raise a whopping £300,000 for a very good reason: to buy another tall ship. A second ship means they can support even more veterans who are facing challenges like PTSD, physical injury, and isolation. A small donation can make a big difference. Here is a quick look at the schedule for the visit:

Event Schedule

• Tuesday 14 April
  4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
  Tall ships Spirit of Falmouth & Pellew arrive at Hull Marina

• Wednesday 15 April
  1:15 PM
  Invictus Games Flag raising ceremony at the Marina

• Thursday 16 April
  9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  Open to veterans, reservists, and their families

• Thursday 16 April
  2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
  Open to the general public for tours

• Friday 17 April
  ~6:00 AM
  Ships depart from Hull

This is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of resilience and a chance to support those who have served. Seeing the Spirit of Falmouth and Pellew in person will be a memorable experience, but understanding the powerful story of the crew on their expedition makes it truly special.