HUNDREDS of thousands of visitors are expected to visit the North-East after it was confirmed the 2018 Tall Ships Race will set sail from the region.

Race organisers announced today (Friday, July 3) that the world famous race will start in Sunderland, with more than 70 majestic ships taking part in the race across the North Sea.

Last year, the city was confirmed as one of the venues for the 2018 race, but the announcement that it will be the home port for the event means ships will berth in the city for four days before the start, which in turns means the city can expect hundreds of thousands of visitors and a multi-million pound tourism boost to the economy.

Cllr John Kelly, from Sunderland City Council, revealed the news from the deck of the 200-ft two-masted brig Stavros S Niarchos, currently on a four-day visit to the city.

He said: "Securing starting port status for the Tall Ships Races 2018 means we've got the icing on the cake.

"The Tall Ships Races attract hundreds of thousands of visitors. There are opportunities for residents, visitors, businesses and all the region to again benefit and enjoy the spectacle that the races provide."

Ships will begin berthing on Sunderland’s waterfront from July 11, 2018 ahead of the race which starts on Saturday, July 14.

The vessels will then race to Esbjerg in Denmark, the cruise to Stavanger in Norway, before the final leg of the race to Harlingen, in The Netherlands.

Tim Law, Marketing and Operations Director of the Tall Ships Youth Trust,

said: "Making this announcement from the deck of Stavros gives people an idea of what they can expect in 2018 - an amazing and colourful spectacle.

"We delighted to be in Sunderland for the first time and encourage people to come down and visit Stavros tomorrow as we will be hosting an open day.

"We are very much looking forward to coming back again in the future, including 2018”.

Cllr Kelly added: "There are lots of exciting plans under discussion including an event village spanning both sides of the river with a particular focus on family fun and easy access to prime viewing sites.

“With Wearmouth Bridge and the gorge overlooking the river, we've also got some of the best viewing points imaginable."

Gary Hutchinson, commercial director of Sunderland AFC and chairman of the Sunderland Business Group, said: “The Tall Ships Race is a huge opportunity for the city to have its name heard around the world.

“An international spotlight will shine on the city, and that is something to be proud of.

“The event will undoubtedly provide a huge boost to our city, putting Sunderland on the map, as well as the wider region. We have a stunning waterfront – and hosting the Tall Ships will provide a great opportunity to show that off, and promote our fantastic city by the sea.”