'Pirates of Caribbean' Ship Visits Newport

A pair of wooden, 18th-century ships will stage cannon battles and host public tours in Newport Beach over the next two weeks as part of an educational tour to various California ports.

The Lady Washington and Hawaiian Chieftain arrived in town Tuesday, docking at the Newport Sea base, 1931 W. Coast Highway, according to a news release from the Grays Harbor Historical Seaport Authority.

You might recognize the Lady Washington from its role in the movie "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl," released in 2003. The
Hawaiian Chieftain serves as Lady Washington’s sailing partner. Both ships, along with crews dressed in period costumes, will welcome visitors aboard on the following days and times:

• This week through Friday: from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Saturday, New Year's Eve: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Jan. 3 to 6: 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Jan. 7 and 8: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m
• Jan. 10 and  11: 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

No reservations are required for the walk-on tours, but a $3 donation per person is appreciated. 

Cannon Fights

At 2 p.m. on New Year's Eve and again on Jan. 7 and 8, the ships will stage a three-hour "Battle Sail" featuring close-quarters, naval-style maneuvers similar to those used in the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. Guests will be invited to help raise a sail and steer the ships.

Tickets for the cannon fight are $60 for adults, $50 for students/seniors/active military and $40 for children 12 and under. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling 800-200-5239. Groups of eight or more will receive a 15 percent discount.

Both vessels will be closed New Year's Day.