Frequently Asked Questions

Security

What are the prohibited and allowed items during Sail Boston?

Due to federal, state, and city public safety plans, there are a number of items that are strictly prohibited. Please view the Prohibited Items page for more information.

What days will the prohibited items be enforced?

Prohibited items will be strictly enforced during Parade of Sail as well as on the piers during the week of Sail Boston.

Are cameras and video recorders allowed?

Yes.

Will there be bag storage?

There is absolutely no bag storage at any location. Please pay close attention to the Prohibited Items list as there are no exceptions. Patrons must comply or they will not be granted access to the viewing areas. There will not be a discard area for those items not allowed.

What restrictions are placed on spectator vessels?

Please view the Spectator Anchorages and Spectator Vessel Movement pages.

What time will the security check points be open?

Screening areas will be open at 7:00 AM on July 11 and during open pier hours.

Are you allowed to re-enter after going through a security check point?

Patrons are allowed to leave the secured area, but must repeat the screening process each time they re‑enter.

General

How many ships are coming?

There will be over 50 ships participating in Sail Boston. Visit the Participating Ships page for more information.

Where will the ships be berthed?

There will be ships at the Boston Fish Pier, Commonwealth Pier, Pier 5 South Boston, Courthouse Dock, Fan Pier, Rowe’s Wharf and Charlestown Navy Yard.

Is there a cost to board the ships?

There is no cost to board and view the Tall Ships during visiting hours.

What days/times will there be access to the ships?

The pier hours for Sail Boston are:
Saturday, July 11 | 4:00 – 10:00 PM
Sunday, July 12 – Wednesday, July 15 | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Hours are subject to change and may vary at each Captain’s discretion.

Will there be security screenings to get onto the ships?

Yes, there will be stadium style security screenings to gain access to festival spaces. Please see the list of Prohibited Items to ensure you are allowed access with your belongings.

What if it rains?

The event is rain or shine. Please prepare for the weather by bringing sunscreen, rain jackets and/or umbrellas. There will be a lot of walking involved, so comfortable, flat shoes are recommended. Please see the list of Prohibited Items to ensure you are allowed access with your belongings. There will not be a storage area for those items not allowed.

Are the ships accessible?

The ships are not equipped for wheelchair access, but the piers are accessible.

Will crew be on board the ships during viewing hours?

There will be opportunities to interact with crew members during your visit aboard the ships.

Will there be restrictions for private boats in the Harbor?

Please see the Spectator Vessel Movement map for more information on restrictions from the conclusion of the Parade of Sail on Saturday, July 11 through Wednesday, July 15

Will the ships travel through the Cape Cod Canal?

Sail Boston does not have a schedule of if/when the ships will transit the canal.

Are pets allowed at Sail Boston?

Pets are not allowed at the Sail Boston festivities (excluding certified service animals).

Can I bring a drone?

Drones are never allowed during the Sail Boston Festivities. Failure to comply is punishable by law as the event site is within 5 miles of an International Airport.

Can I bring a stroller?

Strollers are allowed on the piers and festival sites. Strollers are not allowed on the ships, but there will be space on the piers for strollers.

Can I bring a selfie stick?

Yes! Share your story with #SailBoston and #Sail250.

Will there be fireworks?

Yes! Fireworks will be on Saturday, July 11 and Wednesday, July 15 around 9:15 PM. Click here to see our events schedule.

Where is the Lost & Found located?

Sail Boston is not responsible for lost items.

Where can I buy Sail Boston merchandise?

Merchandise can be purchased at our Sail Boston Festival sites. Click here to purchase online.

How can I volunteer for Sail Boston?

Please visit our Volunteer Page for more information. All volunteer positions are currently full.

How can I become a sponsor of Sail Boston?

For a sponsor package or more information, please contact 617-439-7700 or rpatten@sailboston.com.

How can my business participate in Sail Boston?

Please visit our Business Opportunities page and fill out the form to receive updates and information as opportunities become available.

Parade of Sail

What is the Parade of Sail?

The Meet Boston Parade of Sail will highlight the day’s activities as vessels parade in flotillas from Broad Sound into the main channel of Boston Harbor, turning at Charlestown, before proceeding to their assigned berthing areas. Public viewing of the Parade will be spectacular from Castle Island, the Seaport District, the Boston Waterfront, East Boston, the North End and Charlestown.

When is the Parade of Sail?

Saturday, July 11 from approximately 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

Is there a Grandstand Section?

Grandstand seating will be going on sale in early May.

Will there be food and beverage available for purchase at the Grandstands?

Yes, there will be food and beverage available for purchase.

Can I bring my own food and beverage into the Grandstands?

No, outside food and beverage are not permitted.

What is the best viewing area for the Parade of Sail?

Castle Island, Long Wharf, Charlestown Piers 4 & 6, Harborwalk, and East Boston.

Will there be restrictions for private boats in the Harbor on the Parade of Sail day?

Yes, view the Spectator Anchorages map and specifications for these restrictions.

What is the best accessible viewing location for those with limited mobility/wheelchairs?

Castle Island.

Will there be food and beverage available for purchase at Castle Island?