Vessels of all shapes and sizes sailed into town for four days of festivities attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors in August 2010.
They came from all over the country and left with great memories of the town.
Hartlepool Borough Council in partnership with the National Museum of the Royal Navy Hartlepool, PD Ports and Hartlepool Marina Ltd have submitted a bid to host the event again in 2023.
In the meantime, take a look at these great pictures. Do they bring back memories? Are you in them or were you too young to remember?
5. That's entertainment
Singer Ian Monaghan of Hartlepool band White Negroes entertained the crowds at a night time concert during the event. Photo: Tom Collins
6. Let's dance
These crew members brought their rhythm to the streets of Hartlepool. Photo: File photo
7. Soaking up the atmosphere
Brian and Audrey Scollen were just two of the visitors who enjoyed the races. Photo: CRAIG LENG
8. Charter trains bring in visitors
It was a busy scene at Hartlepool railway station as passengers arrived on special charter trains from London to visit the Tall Ships event. Photo: Mail file