The Mirabella V, the world’s largest sloop, was spotted in Charleston Harbor earlier this month (the photo above shows her anchored off the coast of Monaco and gives some idea of her immense size). Completed in 2004 at a reported cost of $50 million, the single-mast yacht is owned by Joseph Vittoria, former CEO of car rental company Avis. The 247-foot yacht boasts a 292-foot mast and 6 cabins. According to a 2005 post on the official Mirabella V website, the super yacht and its crew of 14 are available for charter at a cost of $250,000 per week.

Visit the Post and Courier website for more information about the Mirabella V’s visit to Charleston, South Carolina.

Eighteen international tall ships can be seen in Charleston Harbor the weekend of July 26-28, marking the annual Harborfest event. The ships have come from as far away as France, Russia, Uruguay and the UK. Some of the ships will be offering deck tours. Other Charleston Harborfest activities include a waterfront air show, food and drink, pirate-themed waterfront activities and an evening concert. On Monday there will be a Parade of Sail as the tall ships leave the harbor.

Admission to Harborfest is $20 for adults and $10 for children under 17, with free admission for children under 5. Parking is free over the weekend. Find out more at the Charleston Harborfest website.

Charleston is a charming city in South Carolina. It’s the second largest city in the state and is located at the mid-point of South Carolina’s coastline. Charleston is a travel destination and offers a variety of accommodations as well as many restaurants and shopping opportunities. Some of the main attractions of Charleston are its beautiful historic homes and residential streets lined with giant live oaks draped with Spanish moss. The city of Charleston is a unique blend of the traditional American South and the cultural elements from France, England and West Africa.