However, the size of the crowds has created some logistical snags with some people waiting in line for two to three hours just to tour the massive ships.
On Saturday, about 200 ticket holders were turned away; organizers also turned away busloads of people on Sunday. But event organizers said on Sunday that those who have tickets -- and want to -- would have a chance to view the ships.
"The tall ships are just a significant line, and it takes a little while to work through it," said the event's executive director, Don Holloway. "So, we're hoping everybody will be patient with us."
But patience was waning for some frustrated visitors.
"You know, we bought tickets yesterday, and we weren't able to go down there," said one visitor on Sunday. "And we bought tickets this morning, and we're here an hour after it opens, and we can't go down. So, I feel like we're wasting our day."
Those who had tickets and were turned away on Saturday were able to view them on Sunday, or they received a refund, Holloway said.
Thirteen tall ships from around the world have docked in Morehead City, as well as Beaufort, until July 5 for the weeklong festival. Festivities began on Saturday with the WRAL Parade of Sail, with all the ships entering the Beaufort Inlet.
Information on obtaining a refund is available by contacting the ticket box office at 252-728-4110 or 252-728-7471.
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