Apprentice pirates Ash Huppatz, 3, of Barrack Heights and Elijah Palmer, 4, of Thirroul.
Lisa, 10-year-old Ethan, eight-year-old Riley and Paul Vezghoff of Austinmer.
Zachery Cox, 6, from Warrawong. Pictures: KEN ROBERTSON
Melissa Muscat, 16, of Shellharbour.
One of the world's oldest sailing ships was the main attraction at the third Maritime Community Day on Saturday.
The 140-year-old tall ship James Craig was in port and visitors were able to climb on board and explore.
Port Kembla spokeswoman Sandy Rae said it was a rare chance to see the ship.
GALLERY: Historic beauty sails into Illawarra
"The vessel only does open water sails a few times a year. It normally just conducts day sails within Sydney Harbour. We are very privileged to have her here with us in Port Kembla," Ms Rae said.
"In the previous years we have had naval vessels as the feature attraction but having a historical tall ship is something special. It is a chance for the Illawarra community to get up close to a unique piece of Australia's maritime history."
Other events on the day included exhibitions from Australian Hydrographic Service and Australian Seabird Rescue, guided tours of the Heritage Park precinct and local military artefacts and a jumping castle, giant slide, and marine-themed characters for the kids.
"The aim of the day is to raise public awareness of the Port Kembla Maritime and Heritage precinct, to achieve recognition of the port as part of the local community and to promote safe boating and fishing practices in the area."
