We don’t know what it costs to put boat insurance on them, but there’s no better way to spend a day on the water than aboard a tall ship. Tall ships, in case you weren’t aware, are large sailing vessels. The ships are wooden, with wood masts and square rigging, and are generally modeled after the ships of yesteryear. Some of the more popular models of tall ship today include brigantines, schooners, barques and brigs.

Tall ships have been with us since man first ventured off familiar shores and inlets to sail the open ocean in wooden hulled, tall-masted ships, though the name “Tall ships” has only been applied since the early 1900s. Originally, the ships were designed to cross the oceans, and today they often still do.

So, why would anyone continue to sail, especially across the ocean in a tall ship when modern technology has given us more efficient means of travel? If you have to ask that question, chances are you’ve never been sailing.

These days, tall ships serve many purposes. While their days of carrying cargo and passengers for profit are over, they continue to be sailed in ceremonial, educational, and recreational programs.

Many of today’s modern navies continue to maintain a tall ship or two in their arsenal. This includes the US Navy, which still has Old Ironsides, the USS Constitution under sail. Of course, as with all other tall ships, she’s seen all the combat she ever will, but the tradition lives on in the American Navy, and in several other navies around the world. We’re not sure whether or not the lack of chain shot being hurtled at them helps their boat insurance rates, but we’re pretty sure it doesn’t hurt them any.

Many tall ships are used for educational purposes. An example of this are the Appledore IV and Appledore V, docked in Bay City, Michigan, USA. Both two masted schooners are typically used for educational and team building sails. The professional crew consists of a captain and three crewmembers, with many of the typical crew tasks being performed by students.

Other tall ships offer recreational cruises ranging from a couple of hours to several days. Depending on the ship, passengers may be allowed to perform some of the sailors’ duties, or may simply enjoy the cruise.

If you ever get the chance to sail on one of these tall ships, whether it be in the Great Lakes or the open ocean, take it. There really is no better way to enjoy the wide open blue water than aboard a tall ship.

Photo via mikebaird