Frequently Asked Questions
Security
What are the prohibited and allowed items during Sail Boston?
To comply with city rules and ensure the safety and comfort of all guests, some items such as backpacks/large bags, weapons, outside alcohol, and non-service pets are prohibited during event hours. Please refer to our Prohibited Items page for the complete list of what is and is not allowed at Sail Boston.
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. Personal cameras and handheld video recorders are permitted for personal use and may be subject to security screening. But please be sure to respect those around you if they are not comfortable being filmed.
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, Rowes 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.
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 not permitted during Sail Boston festivities. Unauthorized drone use is punishable by law as the event space is within five miles of Logan 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! Guests are welcome to bring selfie sticks for personal use and can feel free to share their experience on social media using #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?
Yes, tickets are now available for the MassMutual Sail Boston Grandstands! Click here to learn more.
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.
What if it rains?
The event is rain or shine, but the following conditions will limit or cancel the Parade of Sail:
- Less than one (1) mile visibility
- Winds greater than twenty (20) knots
- Constant downpour
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 prohibited items.
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, which is a two-mile, entirely flat and wheelchair-accessible loop with a clear view of the ocean.
Will there be food and beverage available for purchase at Castle Island?
Yes, there will be food and beverage available for purchase.
Will there be restrooms available at Castle Island?
Yes, Castle Island will have various porta-johns available along walkways and paths. There is also a public restroom available close to the parking lot.
Attractions
Where can I view the Crew & Cadet Street Parade?
The Street Parade on Monday, July 13 goes from the Leader Bank Pavilion (290 Northern Avenue, Boston) to Christopher Columbus Park (110 Atlantic Avenue).
Route Overview:
- Step off at 12:00 PM from Leader Bank Pavilion on Northern Avenue, heading west
- Continue straight on Seaport Boulevard passing Commonwealth Pier
- Cross the Evelyn Moakley Bridge
- Turn right onto Atlantic Avenue
- Continue north along Atlantic Avenue
- End at Christopher Columbus Park
Click here to view parade route map.
Is the Crew & Cadet Soccer Tournament open to the public?
Yes, we encourage you to come support the teams from the sidelines! It will take place on Tuesday, July 14 from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM at LoPresti Park (33 Sumner Street, East Boston).
What are the various options for Harbor cruises?
Click here to see all of the Tall Ship viewing experiences available with Boston Harbor City Cruises.
Where can I book overnight accommodations?
There is a wide variety of hotels in the area and you can check out our Plan Your Visit page to schedule.