(This article by Louisiana-based writer Kathie Rowell originally appeared in the June 2025 issue of Military Officer, a magazine available to all MOAA Premium and Life members. Learn more about the magazine here; learn more about joining MOAA here.)

Sail250, a gathering of international tall ships and U.S. Navy and Coast Guard ships in celebration of the nation’s 250th birthday, will set sail in 2026 on a seven-week journey from New Orleans to Baltimore to Norfolk to New York to Boston.

Dozens of ships from around the world are expected to participate, including the USCGC Eagle, a 290-foot barque used as a training cutter for future Coast Guard officers; Juan Sebastian de Elcano, a Spanish Navy schooner barque and the third-largest sailing ship in the world at 371 feet long; and a Royal Malaysian Navy sail-training vessel, a two-masted brigantine.

Cmdr. John Burns, USCG (Ret), a Sail Baltimore board member, is helping plan the event.

“There will be something for everyone — visiting international sailing ships and U.S. and allied military vessels, all open for tours and all set in a festival atmosphere,” he said. “I always look forward to getting back on deck to tour the participating vessels and interacting with the crews.”

The schedule (subject to change):

• New Orleans: May 28 to June 1. In addition to the nautical spectacle along the Mississippi River, plans include a welcome parade, fireworks, family activities, and ship tours.
• Norfolk: June 19-23. Events include the Parade of Sail, free ship visits, and Norfolk Harborfest (va250.org/sail250).
• Baltimore: June 24 to July 1: In addition to Sail250 Maryland, Airshow Baltimore is also scheduled during the celebration.
• New York: July 3-9. Events include a ship parade, ship tours, an international aerial review featuring the Blue Angels and other aircraft, and fireworks.
• Boston: July 11-16. Events include a ship parade, ship tours, and educational events.