The Tall Ships Return to Boston

July 11 - 16, 2026

Celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States at Sail Boston® 2026, an international maritime event that brings tall ships and naval vessels from around the world to Boston Harbor as part of Sail250®, featuring ship tours, educational activities, and cultural exchange.

Boston Found Podcast

Tall Ships in America – Boston Invented That Too

Tune in for the latest episode of Boston Found, as we welcome Dusty Rhodes, President of Conventures, Inc., and Jeff Draeger, CEO of the USS Constitution Museum to share the exciting information about this event, explain the Meet Boston Parade of Sail, and share more about the role of the USS Constitution in Boston’s maritime heritage and during this summer’s festivities.

More Boston Found podcasts are available on our podcast page or wherever you get your podcasts.

Schedule of Events
Top Viewing Spots
Ship Locations
Plan Your Boston Itinerary
View Hotel Rates
FAQs

Schedule of Events

Meet Boston Parade of Sail

The Grand Parade of Sail brings Boston Harbor to life as majestic ships glide in formation past the city’s most scenic waterfront neighborhoods, offering unforgettable views of…

Opening Ceremony
Friday, July 10, 2026 | 11:00 AM | Boston Harbor Hotel Rotunda

Meet Boston Parade of Sail
Saturday, July 11, 2026 | 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM | Boston Harbor

Sail Boston Festival
Saturday, July 11 – Wednesday, July 15 | 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM | 302 Northern Avenue, Boston

Public Boarding of Ships
Saturday, July 11 | 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Sunday, July 12 - Wednesday, July 15 | 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
(at the discretion of the Captain)

CLICK HERE TO VIEW SHIP LOCATIONS

Fireworks
Saturday, July 11 and Wednesday, July 15 | 9:15 PM | Fan Pier

Crew & Cadet Street Parade
Monday, July 13 | 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM | Leader Bank Pavilion to Christopher Columbus Park

Sail Boston Cup
Tuesday, July 14 | 10:00 AM | LoPresti Park, East Boston

Top Viewing Spots

Boston’s waterfront draws thousands of spectators for the arrival of the Tall Ships. Here’s where to get the best view.

Ship Locations

Explore majestic tall ships up close with onboard tours and unforgettable day sails.

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Celebrate America's 250th Anniversary

Commemorate 250 years since the start of the American Revolution with reenactments of Paul Revere's ride, the Battle of Lexington, and the Battle Of Menotomy.

Top Things to Do in Boston

Discover the city for history buffs, music lovers, foodies, cultural travelers, and, truthfully, anyone!

Where to Eat in Boston

Boston's ever-evolving food and drink scene makes dining out the perfect way to experience the cultural fabric of the city.

View Hotel Rates

FAQs

Can you board the tall ships?

Yes, many of the tall ships docked in Boston will be open for free public boarding during Sail Boston 2026, with some restrictions depending on the vessel.

What is a tall ship?

A tall ship is a large, traditionally rigged sailing vessel with multiple masts and sails, often historic or used for training.

When do the tall ships come to Boston?

The tall ships will arrive in Boston Harbor for Sail Boston 2026 from July 11–16, 2026.

Where will the tall ships be in 2026?

The tall ships will be docked along Boston’s waterfront from July 11–16. The fleet will visit New Orleans, Norfolk, Baltimore, and New York City, and culminate their Sail250® tour in Boston.

What other events are happening in Boston during Sail Boston?

Many events are happening during Sail Boston, including Festival Betances, Boston JerkFest, and more.