Where to go, what to see, and what to eat during Sail Boston

Six scenic spots

More than 4 million people are expected to attend the maritime celebration.

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Welcome back to Scenic Six.

I’m in North Carolina (visiting family in Charlotte), so I’m writing this newsletter in advance and dedicating it to Sail Boston 2026. The Tall Ships haven’t visited Boston since 2017 and we’re one of only five stops on the Sail250 tour, so I think the event is worth a deep dive!

The ships sail into Boston Harbor on Saturday and more than 4 million people are expected to attend the maritime celebration. Ahead, find out everything you need to know.

Your comprehensive guide to sailing in Boston 2026

The long ships are coming! The much-anticipated Parade of Sail takes place on July 11, when more than 60 majestic ships from around the world sail into Boston Harbor. Find out everything you need to know, including upcoming ships, (free!) activities happening, security measures being taken, and more.

Find out what makes a ship a “tall ship”

For those who want to brush up on their knowledge of tall ships before the ships get here, an expert explains what makes a ship a “tall ship.” It turns out that altitude is not the main reason.

Find out where tall ships will be docked

Planning your own tall ship adventure? Here is the complete list of historic docking sites coming to Boston. Many of them will offer free tours on a first-come, first-served basis. Did you know that over twenty ships came from New England? Below is a list of participating ships.

Travel tips

  • You can eat and drink around the world, thanks to many hotels adopting international ships during the event. For example, visitors can sip a clerico (the South American version of white wine sangria) at the Omni Boston Hotel in the Seaport in honor of Capitan Miranda of Uruguay; Polish pierogi tasting at the Hyatt Place Boston/Seaport District as a nod to Młodzieży House from Poland; Enjoy a Swedish dessert experience at Boston’s Newbury Hotel in celebration of HMS Gladan from Sweden.

Deals and theft

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  • Kings Dining & Entertainment in the Seaport It will offer $8 specialty cocktails From July 10-16, including Dark ‘N’ Stormys, Navy Grogs, Cabin Coolers and a limited edition Sam Adams Tall Ships Ale on draft.
  • Sailors in uniform can get stuck 20% discount on food at the Capiz Lounge in the Renaissance Boston Seaport District during Sail Boston 2026, which takes place July 11-16.
  • Book “Sailing away stayingPackage at The Liberty Hotel, available for stays in July. The package includes a one-night stay for two people, a champagne toast, kayaking on the Charles River, and a voucher ($156.21 value) redeemable at CLINK or Liberty Bar for a dozen Wellfleet oysters paired with a bottle of Decoy Brut.

Spending time in Boston? Check out 10 free things to do in Boston in July.

I’ll leave you with this photo of the drone display during the Boston Pops fireworks spectacular.

Where have you traveled recently? Please share your photos by sending them to [email protected] They may be featured in an upcoming Scenic Six newsletter.

Whether you’re traveling this week or planning your next trip, enjoy the ride.

-Christy

Profile photo of member Christy Palma

Christy Palma

Travel writer

Christy Palma is a travel writer for Boston.com, focusing on the six New England states. They cover airlines, hotels, and things to do in Boston and New England. She is the award-winning author of Scenic Six, a weekly travel newsletter.


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