There were ghosts (no, we don't know why either), pirates, Aztec chiefs and Spanish and Mexican dancers when crews from the Tall Ships paraded through Falmouth this afternoon.

Falmouth Packet: How did that pirate get there?How did that pirate get there? (Image: Paul Armstrong)

Thousands of people lined the streets of the town to watch the crews of the ships from the UK, Mexico, Denmark, Poland, Uruguay, Spain, Italy and Belgium head from the docks to the Moor.

Falmouth Packet: Spectacular Mexican dancersSpectacular Mexican dancers (Image: Paul Armstrong)

They made their way through Falmouth, taking in Arwenack Street, Church Street, Market Street on its way to The Moor, before returning back to Events Square.

Falmouth Packet: The Polish crew pass Falmouth parish churchThe Polish crew pass Falmouth parish church (Image: Paul Armstrong)

Crews wore fancy dress or their ship’s uniform bringing along the crew musicians to add to the excitement.

Falmouth Packet: Falmouth Marine Band bring up the rear of the paradeFalmouth Marine Band bring up the rear of the parade (Image: Paul Armstrong)

Falmouth Marine Band lead the throng followed by young people from Falmouth Sea Cadets and Falmouth Rugby Club.

Earlier the ships’ crews took each other on in fun-fuelled games of five-a-side football, volleyball and tug of war. Teams of up to eight from each vessel battled each other at the Rugby Club in knock out leagues.

Falmouth Packet: It was a colourful parade!It was a colourful parade! (Image: Paul Armstrong)

Still to come on Friday, August 18 at 3pm is the spectacular Parade of Sail. However, be warned the forecast is not great.

Falmouth Packet: The sober Danes!The sober Danes! (Image: Paul Armstrong)

Prior to the Falmouth race start to A Coruna, Spain, the tall ships, along with hundreds of supporting local boats, yachts, and marine craft, will sail in company from their moorings, along the coast past Pendennis headland and Falmouth’s beaches. 

This is a truly fantastic spectacle, one not to be missed and it can be viewed from several coastal vantage points in and around Falmouth or from the water.