THE ports of Scarborough and Whitby are hoping to attract more tall ships to boost the Yorkshire Coast's holiday industry.

Charges are to be reduced for tall ships and other vessels registered with Sail Training International to encourage more interest and business for the ports.

The changes proposed include scrapping berth dues for vessels over 40 metres and offering berths for those under 40 metres at half- price.

Councillor James Preston, Scarborough Borough Council's cabinet member for harbours, said: "This move will be a big incentive to attracting more tall ships, which will, in turn, be a big boost to the tourist industry."

Port manager Bill Estill said: "There is considerable interest from a number of vessels wanting to utilise Whitby Harbour in July 2005 as part of the Cruise in Company Race, and also to visit outside the Tall Ships Races which only take place in UK waters at infrequent intervals.

"Itineraries for these ships are often planned well in advance, so getting the right incentives in place now will enable us to market Whitby and Scarborough ports to these vessels during the 2005 Tall Ships Race and secure regular visits for the future.

"Enticing these captivating vessels to the borough in the early or late part of each season will provide additional attractions for the towns and will have a significant impact on the local economy.

"More frequent visits will also help to balance out the cost of the concessions made and should mean that there will be no negative effect on existing harbour income."