The 3rd Annual Maritime Heritage Festival kicks-off today at 2:00 p.m with the largest flotilla in 50 years making its way down the Willamette River.  The Portland Fire Boat will lead the flotilla of 45+ classic vessels from the Broadway Bridge to the RiverPlace Marina.  If you are joining in on the fun at the Oregon Brewers Festival, that is also taking place on the waterfront, be sure not miss this spectacular of classic boats coming down the Willamette!  The Portland Fireboat will be sure to show off its stuff by performing a water demonstration (pictured below).

The Maritime Heritage Festival will be taking place all weekend long at the RiverPlace Marina & Docks.  Here are some highlights of the planned public events:

Friday, July 24, 2009

2:00-4:00 pm:
- Arrival of boats:  Ship Flotilla & Water Parade

Saturday, July 25

10:00 am-4:00 pm:
- Maritime Festival Village (land displays, demonstrations boat building, children’s events, etc.)
- Civil War Naval & Cannon Demonstration
- Dockside Boat Show (many owners available for questions)
- Concours d’Elegance
- Musical performances from regional favorites
- Vintage boat rides (owners’ discretion)

11:00 am & 2:00 pm
- Vintage water skiing show

12:00 noon & 3:00 p.m.
- Civil War Cannon Fire

12:00 – 2:00 pm
- Music: White Rhino

4:00 pm
- Festival ends for the day

Sunday, July 26

10:00 am-4:00 pm
-  Maritime Festival Village (land displays, demonstrations boat building, children’s events, etc.)
- Civil War Naval & Cannon Demonstration
- Dockside Boat Show (many owners available for questions)
- Musical performances from regional favorites
- Vintage boat rides (owners’ discretion)

11:00 a.m. & 2:00 pm
- vintage water skiing & water sports demonstrations

12:00 pm & 3:00 pm
- Civil War Cannon Fire

12:00 – 2:00 pm
- Music: White Rhino

4:30 pm
- Festival Ends