The Program
The year 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding—the United States of America’s Semiquincentennial. To celebrate, a fleet of international tall ships and military vessels will sail into the Port of Virginia as part of Sail250® America, an epic peacetime gathering.
Rotarians and guests were transported into the vision and logistics of Sail250® Virginia by Captain Hank Moseley, Director of Maritime Operations. Norfolk is one of only five U.S. ports selected to host the Sail250 America tour, the largest event in the worldwide 2026 celebration.
Captain Moseley is highly qualified for this role. His maritime experience began with the Jamestown settlement recreations of the Discovery, Godspeed, and Sarah Constant. He also served as maritime consultant for the film Master and Commander: Far Side of the World and was Director of Maritime Operations for OpSail2012 Virginia.
As host, Norfolk and affiliated harbors will welcome ships from 20 nations and nearly 7,000 crew members and diplomats. With a projected budget of $93 million, the event is expected to deliver a significant economic boost to the region. Affiliate harbors include Alexandria, Cape Charles, Chesapeake, Hampton, Onancock, Portsmouth, Richmond, Smithfield/Isle of Wight, and Yorktown. Planning involves local, state, and federal partners to ensure smooth operations and security.
Ships will anchor in the Chesapeake Bay Lynnhaven anchorage in the days before the June 19th Parade of Sail. More than 60 vessels—including tall ships, military vessels, traditional Chesapeake Bay watercraft, and character vessels—will sail a 26-mile parade route, arriving at Norfolk’s Town Point at noon. here will be multiple viewing locations along the parade route. Ships will be open for free public deck tours throughout their stay.
Additional harbor events, ship tours, and opportunities such as the “Adopt-a-Ship” program and a speaker series are planned across the region. For details, visit sail250virginia.com.
