AN AUSTRALIAN FIRST: CLIMB THE MAST OF THE TALL SHIP, THE SOUTHERN SWAN

From 1 October, Sydney Harbour Tall Ships will launch the 'Mast Climb' on the Southern Swan, the ship used for the Australian Bicentennial First Fleet Re Enactment.

Relive the romance of 18th century sailing on the Southern Swan with its tall masts, wide spreads of billowing canvas and the smell of salt in the air as you cruise down Sydney Harbour on this majestic vessel.

Entrust yourself to the elements and watch the silhouette of the city with a gentle sea breeze in your hair and the old world charm of this magnificent ship all around you.

Climbing the mast is an experience like no other. Previously, only qualified crew have been able to do this exhilarating experience. Forget scrubbing the deck and hoisting the sails, Sydney Harbour and all its majesty awaits from the 22 metre high mast.

Consider the sense of achievement as you reach the pinnacle and see the sparkling harbour laid out before you as you sail under the Harbour Bridge from your lofty view point, surrounded by billowing 18th century like sails.

Imagine yourself as one of the Blackbeard pirates, a parrot perched on your shoulder and a bandana on your head, or perhaps as one of the crew on Captain Cook's voyage to our Great Southern Land, as you scale the 22 metre high mast whilst attached to the safety harness.

This once in a lifetime adventure experience will see you step back in time to 18th century sailing. Nowhere else is climbing the mast of a tall ship commercially available. Sydney Harbour Tall Ships have created this incredible experience as an addition to the two hour magical harbour cruise on board Sydney's only authentic tall ship. Enjoy a sumptuous Australian BBQ seafood lunch on board this vessel which leaves from Campbell's Cove and cruises past al the iconic landmarks including Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, Fort Denison, Garden Island, Taronga Zoo, Luna Park and Admiralty House.

This incredible experience is available on the two hour harbour cruise costing $89 with the added thrill of the mast climb at an extra $59.

This is a truly unique Australian experience unlike anything else in the world.

For further information contact Sydney Harbour Tall Ships on 1300 66 44 10 or www.sydneyharbourtallships.com.au

Media contact Nicole Lenoir-Jourdan 02 9449 3088/040409 5326 nicole@fivestarpr.com.au