It should be quite the sight when the Mexican Navy’s tall ship Cuauhtémoc sails into New London Harbor on Monday, part of a goodwill mission that will allow the 81 cadets from Mexico’s naval academy to meet and interact with cadets from our Coast Guard Academy.

It’s a great way to kick off the tourist season, even if the forecasted damp, cool weather isn’t cooperating. Those who want to view the Cuauhtémoc’s arrival shouldn’t be discouraged from doing so.

When Cuauhtémoc arrives in the harbor she will render the traditional 21-gun salute, which will be returned by the Groton Naval Submarine Base’s mobile saluting battery, which will be positioned at Fort Trumbull.

Commanded by Capt. Pedro Mata Cervantes, the Cuauhtémoc is scheduled to arrive at 10 a.m. The ship is coming here after a stop in Baltimore where the cadets will have visited the Naval Academy in Annapolis.

When she leaves New London next Friday morning, Cuauhtémoc will head for Halifax and then on to several stops in Europe.

Those unable to witness the arrival — it is a Monday, after all — will still have the opportunity to view and visit the tall ship next week.

The Cuauhtémoc will be open to the public for tours starting at noon Monday until 4 p.m.; and from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Admission is free.

The coming event is another reminder of the potential of New London’s harbor to bring visitors into the city and help drive revitalization of its downtown.