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Cannon Battles, Mermaid Grottos: Details Released For Annual Maritime Fest In Dana Point

The 42nd Annual Maritime Festival is scheduled to roll into Dana Point. What to know.

DANA POINT, CA — Looking for a little nautical action in Dana Point?

The 42nd Annual Maritime Festival is scheduled to return Sept. 11 through Sept. 13, bringing with it historic tall ships, live cannon battles, pirates, mermaids and more.

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Here's a run-down on events happening at the annual festival:

Cannon Battles at Sea

Sept. 11–13, 3:30 p.m. –7:30 PM

"Step aboard one of our historic tall ships including the Spirit of Dana Point, Mayflower, Bill of Rights, Irving Johnson, Exy Johnson, and Curlew and witness the excitement of live cannon battles on the open water. Experience the thrill of sailing, booming cannon fire, and maritime history as these iconic vessels bring California's seafaring past to life."

Friday: $68

Saturday & Sunday: $80

*Festival Adventure Pass included with ticket purchase.

School for Scallywags

Sept. 12–13, 8:45 a.m., 9:45 a.m. & 12:10 p.m.

"Join Cap'n Will for pirate training aboard a historic tall ship. Young sailors will learn pirate skills, hear stories from the high seas, and earn their place among the crew."

Tickets: $35 | Infants: $10

*Festival Adventure Pass included with ticket purchase.

Mermaid's + Matey's Breakfast

Sept. 12–13, 9:30 a.m.–11:15 a.m.

"Start your day with breakfast alongside Ocean Institute's resident mermaids and pirates. Guests will enjoy breakfast, entertainment, photo opportunities, and magical mermaid experiences."

Tickets: $70 | Infants: $15

*Festival Adventure Pass included with ticket purchase.

Mermaid Swim Shows

Sept. 12–13, 9:00 a.m., 11:45 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 1:30 p.m.

"Watch Ocean Institute's enchanting mermaids perform underwater before meeting them for photos and magical memories."

Tickets: $45 | Infants: $10

*Festival Adventure Pass included with ticket purchase.

Mermaid Tea by the Sea

Sept. 12–13, 2:15 p.m. –4:00 p.m.

"Enjoy an elegant afternoon tea complete with finger foods, sweet treats, storytelling, and unforgettable mermaid encounters."

Tickets: $70 | Infants: $15

*Festival Adventure Pass included with ticket purchase.

Mermaid Grotto Meet & Greet

Sept. 12–13, 11:15 a.m.–12:00 PM

"Meet Ocean Institute's resident mermaids up close with interactive storytelling, photos, and one-on-one magical moments."

Tickets: $35 | Infants: $10

Festival Adventure Pass included.

FREE PUBLIC ACTIVITIES

Pirate Adventure Shows

Sept. 12–13

Watch daring pirates clash in lively performances aboard the Spirit of Dana Point. These family-favorite shows are free to watch from the dock and are filled with sword fights, comedy, and high-seas adventure.

Peddler's Village

Browse local artisan vendors, enjoy delicious food, live music, and family entertainment while exploring the heart of Maritime Festival.

Historic Tall Ships

Stroll the harbor and admire one of the West Coast's largest gatherings of historic sailing vessels.

For information on festival ticket prices, deals and more, visit the website.

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