The Tall Ships are returning to Bermuda for the Race of the Century in the year 2000.

And Government would provide some $450,000 worth of help to promote and assist the international regatta, Tourism Minister David Dodwell said yesterday.

Thirty ships have already signed up for the Millennium event and another 80 to 100 ships are expected to be on the final roster for the trans-Atlantic race from Cadiz, Spain to Bermuda.

Although details are still being finalised, official welcoming celebrations will begin on June 9 with a possible parade of trainees along Front Street, prize giving ceremony, open air concert, street fair, sporting events and fireworks.

Mr. Dodwell explained yesterday Government's contribution to the event would consist of waived charges, taxes and fees -- a traditional practice for sail training vessels.

Government support would also include promoting the event locally and overseas, and providing tugs, tenders, transportation, and accommodation for persons involved in the event.

"It's good value for the tax-payers' money,'' said Mr. Dodwell.

And a Port Committee -- composed of government and private sector volunteers -- would handle fund raising, social events, technical matters and administration.

The Committee would also be seeking private sector support for cash, and goods and services donations.

Also yesterday, Brigadier Robin Duchesne, chairman of the International Sail Training Association, said adventurous young people between the ages of 15 and 25 would have the unique opportunity to sail aboard the ships from Europe to Bermuda, or from Bermuda to the US.

No experience was needed to participate, but aspiring sailors would be expected to engage in their own fund raising to cover transportation costs to and from the ships, and for daily charges.

Interested persons are invited to send written inquiries to Brian W. Billings, c/o The Royal Naval Yacht Club, P.O. Box HM 894, Hamilton HMDX.

The 2000 event will be the fourth time the Tall Ships have visited the Island.

The previous visits were in 1964, 1976, and 1984.

SETTING SAIL -- Brigadier Robin Duchesne of the International Sail Training Association pictured with Tourism Minister David Dodwell.