The highly anticipated arrival of the Tall Ships to Boston harbor is finally upon us! This exciting event comprised of over 50 majestic ships from around the world will commence this Saturday, June 17, with the Grand Parade of Sail. The parade kicks off five days of nautical festivities including re-enactments, musical performances, ceremonies and daily free public boarding of the ships. Don’t miss out! Read more below to learn everything you need to know to have the best Tall Ships experience.
What is Sail Boston 2017?
Sail Boston 2017 is part of the Rendez-Vous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta, a transatlantic race organized by Sail Training International. The regatta commenced in the UK on April 13, raced to Portugal, then to Bermuda, and is now on its way to Boston. In Boston, the European, South American and North American fleets will congregate before sailing en masse to Quebec for Canada’s National 150th Celebration.
What is the schedule of events for Sail Boston?
There will be an opening ceremony on Friday, June 16, at 12pm and then the Grand Parade of Sail, led by US Coast Guard Barque Eagle, will begin Saturday, June 17, at 9am. A US Navy jet flyover will kick off the parade around 10:15am. Read descriptions of the full schedule here and find additional information at sailboston.com/events/.
Where should I go to watch the Parade of Sail on Saturday?
Public viewing sites will be at Long Wharf, Sargents Wharf, Rowes Wharf, the Harborwalk, Puopolo / Langone Park, and Christopher Columbus Park. Several additional viewing areas are in the Seaport District and East Boston. See map below to learn more (potential viewing locations are in green).
What’s the security going to be like?
Sail Boston, Boston Police and the US Coast Guard will implement a series of security protocols similarly to the Boston Marathon and the July 4th Celebration on the Esplanade for Saturday’s Parade of Sail. Twenty-one screening area entry / exit points will be spaced out along the waterfront, including Atlantic Ave. and Commercial Street, with many carry-in items prohibited. No vehicle access will be allowed in secured areas. Several surrounding streets will be closed and parking restricted. The map below shows viewing locations (green), no parking zones (yellow) and barriers (black).
How can I get there?
Attendees are strongly encouraged not to drive on Saturday. The MBTA will be running extra buses, commuter rail service, and the T will run on a rush hour schedule. Ferry service and commuter boats will be suspended.
Can I see the ships from my personal boat?
If you’re planning to view the Tall Ships from your own recreational boat, make sure you read these boating guidelines regarding traffic patterns and anchorage areas. See the map of anchorage restrictions and the Parade of Sail route below.
Where will the ships dock after the parade?
The public will have the opportunity to board the ships free of charge to stroll the historic decks and interact with the crew daily from Saturday (following the Parade of Sail) to Wednesday. Boarding hours and ship docking locations are listed here. You can also see a list of all participating ships at sailboston.com/participating-ships/.
Where can I find more information?
Visit sailboston.com or download the Sail Boston App for a complete list of events, participating ships, and latest updates.
Ahoy! There are still a few excellent opportunities for affordable private charter vessels.throughout the duration of the TALL SHIPS visit! Can’t believe that 2017 is Boston Yacht Charters’ 4th Tall Ships (1992, 2000, 2009, and now)!! :)…Please reach out if you have a wish to get out on our outstanding, historic harbor!! 🙂 Cruises can often be arranged with hours!
Thank you Ann. Good to know this info for this splendid event !