Spectators described the grand arrival as "amazing." Organizers are just glad they got most of the ships in before the severe weather hit.
They're hoping they move through quickly so all these people can enjoy the rest of the three day festival.
The ships started arriving at the mouth of the Saginaw River around 1:30 p.m. Just after 2 p.m. the first three ships made their way to the downtown area.
In all, Bay City welcomed 12 Tall Ships to port. The oldest in the group dates back to 1952.
Many of the ships are used a training vessels for young sailors learning the ropes. Others have appeared in movies, while some are used to promote tourism.
Thursday was a chance for visitors to check out the boats from shore. On-board tours don't start until Friday. They run from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday.
In order to tour the boats, you have to have a $15 passport. If you don't want to get onboard, it's $6 to get into the park and enjoy the other festivities.
At the last Tall Ships event in 2006, organizers estimate more than 100,000 people took part, pumping millions of dollars into the local economy.
