Frequently Asked Questions
SAIL250® MARYLAND AND AIRSHOW BALTIMORE
June 24 – July 1, 2026
What Is Sail250®?
SAIL250® is a five-city, semiquincentennial commemorative program featuring a traveling flotilla of international tall ships. The SAIL250® program starts in New Orleans, LA, May 28 – June 1, then sails to Norfolk, VA, June 19-24, Baltimore, MD, June 24 – July 1, New York, NY, July 4 – 8, and finishes in Boston, MA, July 11 – 16. www.sail250.org
What Is Sail250® Maryland And Airshow Baltimore?
SAIL250® Maryland & Airshow Baltimore is a free, family friendly, week-long celebration of all things maritime and aviation bringing the "Fleet, Flights, and Festivals" back to Baltimore June 24-July 1, 2026.
SAIL250® Maryland & Air Show Baltimore is produced by Living Classrooms’ Historic Ships in Baltimore in partnership with the United States Navy, Maryland Department of Commerce Office of Tourism, City of Baltimore and Baltimore County as well as Sail Baltimore, Air Support, Martin State Airport, United States Coast Guard, and other agencies and organizations.
Sailors and aviators from around the world will come together in the universal fellowship of freedom, hope, and opportunity that our country has always represented in a grand celebration of our Nation’s semiquincentennial.
This event honors the dedication of the service members who have defended our freedoms at sea and in the air, both past and present for the past 250 years.
United States and international naval vessels, United States Coast Guard ships, a fleet of international tall ships, sea service and other historic sailing vessels will be in port and open for free public tours Thursday, June 25 through Tuesday, June 30 at the Baltimore Inner Harbor, Fells Point, North Locust Point, Under Armour Pier, and Baltimore Peninsula.
The U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Team, The Blue Angels will be the stars of the Baltimore Airshow over Baltimore Harbor visible from Fort McHenry and other areas around the harbor June 26 (practice), 27 and 28.
Flyovers and other aviation demonstrations will take place over Baltimore’s Inner Harbor June 26 (practice) 27 and 28.
Festivals with food and beverage and family activities will be held at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor , Fells Point, Baltimore Peninsula and Martin State Airport. The Inner Harbor Festival will also feature maritime and aviation STEM activities and educational programs at Pier 1, Constellation Dock, encouraging youth to explore career paths in the uniformed services and technology sectors.
For the most up to date schedule information please download the SAIL250 App.
Is There A Cost To Enjoy Sail250® Ships, Airshows, or Festivals?
SAIL250® Maryland and Airshow Baltimore events are free, open to the public, and include ship tours, the airshow and flyovers, family-friendly festivals, music and entertainment.
Will SAIL250® Maryland Events Take Place Rain Or Shine?
Festival events and ship visitation will take place rain or shine except in severe conditions. The safety of attendees and participants is paramount. To ensure the safety of pilots and crews, inclement weather may delay or cancel airshow and flyover activities. Get up-to-date information by downloading the SAIL250® Maryland APP.
Is There A Welcome Ceremony?
Yes! The official Welcome Ceremony will be held at the Harborplace Amphitheater, Baltimore Inner Harbor, located at the intersection of Pratt and Light streets, on Friday, June 26th commencing at 1100. This event is open to the public.
Ship Information
When Will Ships Arrive
Ship arrival times are subject to change due to wind, weather and other circumstances. SAIL250® ships will officially begin arriving on Wednesday, June 24th with additional vessels arriving on Thursday, June 25th. Check the SAIL250® App for your favorite ship’s arrival time and opening hours.
How Can I Find Out Where The Ships Are Docked And Their Public Visiting Hours?
The SAIL250® APP will have information on specific ships, their locations, and the hours that they will be open for visitation. Ships will be docked at various locations around Baltimore, including the Inner Harbor West Wall and Inner Harbor Piers 1 - 5, North Locust Point Pier 8, Broadway Pier, Fells Point, the Under Armour Pier, Locust Point, and Baltimore Peninsula.
General ship visitation times are 10AM to 5PM, Thursday June 25 through Monday June 30th.
US Navy Ship names, types, and berth locations will be posted 30 DAYS prior to the event.
NOTE: INDIVIDUAL SHIPS MAY ADJUST HOURS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS. PLEASE DOWNLOAD THE FLEET WEEK APP TO CONFIRM OPEN TIMES AND SPECIFIC LOCATIONS FOR THE SHIP(S) THAT YOU WISH TO VISIT.
What Ships Are Visiting Baltimore?
We have listed many of the possible visiting tall ships and military ships on this website. More may be added. The list of U.S. Navy ship types and names will be announced and available here and on the SAIL250® APP approximately 30 days prior to the event. Please check back!
What Should I Expect From A Tall Ship Visit?
Many countries, including the United States, have tall ships for the training of their Naval and Coast Guard personnel and their merchant seaman. Going to sea on a traditionally rigged sailing vessel offers opportunities for learning not available on a modern motor vessel. Seamanship skills, teamwork, developing self-confidence and a respect for the power of the sea are important aspects of traditional sailing and sail training. When visiting a ship, talk to a crew member, learn about their experience on board, marvel at the miles of rigging, enjoy the ship’s beauty, and imagine yourself sailing across the ocean.
What Should I Wear?
Dress comfortably and for the weather. It will be hot! Lines to visit ships may be long, so pack a water bottle. Protective footwear is a must as ships have lots of items to stub toes on. NO SANDALS, NO CROCS. NOTE: Water Bottles are not allowed on board U.S. Navy ships.
Are There Any Physical Requirements To Visit The Ships And Are They Handicap Accessible?
The visiting ships are not handicap accessible, however Baltimore’s own USS CONSTELLATION, located on Pier 1, Inner Harbor, is accessible. On all ships there may be steep ladders (stairways) to climb and narrow passageways to traverse during a ship tour. Ship tours may not be appropriate for individuals with heart conditions, breathing difficulties, or other medical conditions impacting their ability to navigate such challenges.
Are Strollers Allowed On Board Ships?
No. Strollers may be “parked” at the bottom of the ship’s gangway and retrieved when your tour is complete. SAIL250 cannot be held responsible for parked or lost strollers.
May I Bring My Pets?
We love our pets too, but due to the large crowds, loud noises, and the difficulty they would have making their way through ships, as well as the potential for changing weather conditions, we ask for their safety that pets remain at home. Service animals are welcome at the festivals.
Special Conditions For Boarding U.S. Navy Ships
For the security of our sailors and all who visit our U.S. Military vessels, additional security and safety protocols are in place and will be enforced.
Will I Be Able To Board And Tour U.S. Navy Ships And What Should I Expect?
Yes! Be prepared to pass minor security screening. Prior to boarding the ships, all bags will be searched and anyone above the age of 18 will be required to show a form of identification. There is no age requirement to access naval vessels during SAIL250® Maryland; however, there may be steep ladders and/or stairways to climb and uneven surfaces to traverse during a ship tour, and thus, tours may not be appropriate for small children and may be difficult for parents carrying young children. Guests should wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. NO SANDALS OR CROCS.
Also, ship tours may not be appropriate for individuals with heart conditions, breathing difficulties, or other medical conditions or mobility challenges impacting their ability to navigate active-duty ships. Strollers or baby carriages are permitted on the pier but are not allowed on ships. They may be retrieved after your tour.
Are There Any Special Security Considerations For Visting U.S. Navy Ships?
U.S. Navy ships participating in SAIL250® Maryland Airshow Baltimore are within a Department of Defense Restricted Areas, designated pursuant to 50 USC § 797 and applicable Department of Defense directives. Entry into this Restricted Area constitutes consent to search of personnel and property, physical surveillance, and concealed monitoring, in order to ensure the safety and security of Department of Defense personnel and equipment, as authorized by Title 50, Chapter 23 and Title 18, Chapter 37, U.S. Code.
What Should I Wear When Preparing To Board The U.S Navy Ships?
Visitors should plan on wearing comfortable clothing. If you are bringing a bag or camera case, it will be searched prior to entering. Remember to bring sunscreen and sunglasses if it is going to be sunny. A ship is an industrial environment, so high-heels, open-toed sandals, or Croc-style shoes are prohibited. Also, avoid necklaces or jewelry that can get caught and bags that are too heavy to carry comfortably.
What Items Are Allowed On U.S. Navy Ships?
Small hand-carried items such as handbags, small cameras, or diaper bags are permitted. All visitors will be security screened, and all authorized bags will be searched before entering the pier. Please note that water bottles of any kind will not be allowed through the security checkpoint.
What Items Are Not Allowed On U.S. Navy Ships?
The following items are not permitted on board ships: electronic smoking devices, bottles, water bottles, cans, or glass containers of any type; banners, posters or signs of any type; mace, pepper spray, or other defensive sprays or chemicals; knives, firearms, fireworks or any explosive; illegal drugs or paraphernalia; flammable liquids or aerosol spray cans; club weapons; and animals. All electronic devices are subject to examination for functionality. The military services reserve the right to prohibit other items not listed above.
May I Take Photographs Or Video On U.S. Navy Ships?
Photographs of U.S. Navy ships are allowed from the pier prior to boarding and at some designated locations on the ships. While you are taking your tour, the tour guide will tell you where and when you can take pictures. Until then, we ask that you keep your camera/cell phone secured in a pocket, purse, or backpack. Individuals who violate this policy may be asked to depart the ship. Photo and story sharing is encouraged on all social media platforms. Whenever possible, please use #SAIL250MD on photos/videos posted to social media.
Are Navy Ships Accessible?
Unfortunately, Navy ships, due to the nature of their mission, are not handicap accessible.
Are There Any Physical Requirements To Visit The U.S. Navy Ships?
There may be steep ladders (stairways) to climb and narrow passageways to traverse during a ship tour. Ship tours may not be appropriate for individuals with heart conditions, breathing difficulties, or other medical conditions impacting their ability to navigate such challenges.
Airshow and Flyover Information
Where Is The Best Place To See The Blue Angels And Airshow Baltimore
The best places to witness the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and Airshow Baltimore are Canton Waterfront Park (3001 Boston St., Baltimore MD 21224), Baltimore Peninsula, or from your own boat on Baltimore Harbor. NOTES: 1.) Fort Avenue will be closed to vehicular traffic at the intersection of Fort Ave. and Andre Streets from Thursday June 25th through Sunday June 27th. There is no public parking at Fort McHenry and public parking in Locust Point neighborhoods is limited. Use public transportation (MTA #94 bus or Charm City Circulator Banner Route) or walk to get to Fort McHenry. 2.) Boaters must stay outside the perimeter of the “airbox” the safety zone marked by buoys in which the Blue Angels and other aviators fly. U.S. Coast Guard and other law enforcement agencies will be on patrol around the airbox to ensure compliance with safety rules and regulations. A map showing the airbox and viewing locations coming soon.
Where Is The Best Place To See Inner Harbor Flyovers?
Military and civilian aircraft will conduct flyovers centered over the Inner Harbor on Friday, June 26 (practice), Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, June 28, from approximately 11AM-4PM. Flyovers may be viewed from anywhere on the Inner Harbor Promenade. Federal Hill, on the south side of the Harbor is a nice place to view the flyovers. Stop by Flyover Control located at the Harborplace Light Street Pavilion and hear up-to-the-minute announcements about the flyovers and aircraft from Aviation Experts.
What Aircraft Will I See Along With The Blue Angels And When And Where Will They Fly?
We have listed some of the aircraft on this website – more may be added. A complete list of aircraft, their scheduled flight times, and where they will fly will be listed on the SAIL250® App. Note that flight times and aircraft availability are subject to change due to weather conditions and other factors.
Is Ear Protection Necessary For The Airshow And Flyover?
Ear protection is highly recommended, especially for children and anyone with sensitivity to loud noise while planes and jets are flying over.
Can I Get In The Aircraft That Are On Display?
For your safety, we can’t let people in our vehicles or aircraft. Static displays, however, can be photographed but you will need to remain behind the ropes at all times.
Festival Information
Where Are The Festival Sites Located?
AT THE INNER HARBOR: From Friday, June 26 to Sunday, June 28, 11AM-8PM, the free, family-friendly Inner Harbor Fleet Week Festival takes place along the Inner Harbor Promenade from the Science Center to the Harborplace Amphitheater to Pier 5. West Shore Park, which is located near the Baltimore Visitor Center at 401 Light Street, Baltimore Maryland 21202 will feature food and souvenir vendors. Festival goers will enjoy hands-on activities and exhibitors from maritime, military, cultural, and historical organizations, local food and drinks, musical performances by the U.S. Navy and many local bands, a kid’s zone, and more! SPECIAL EVENTS include the Crab Soup Cook-off, a Kids on the Bay Mermaid themed parade on the Promenade, Family Fun Zone activities, and Sunday Funday. Children are invited to don costumes and take part in the Kids on the Bay parade around the Promenade on Saturday, June 27 starting at 11AM at the Maryland Science Center plaza.
AT FELLS POINT: Friday, June 26 from 2pm-9pm, Saturday, June 27 from 11am to 9pm and Sunday, June 28 from 11am to 4pm. Festival activities will take place on and around Broadway Square near 1701 Thames St., Baltimore MD 21231. Visiting ships will be berthed on the Broadway Pier and other close by locations.
AT MARTIN STATE AIRPORT: Martin State Airport and the Glenn L. Martin Maryland Aviation Museum will host a two-day community open house and festival on Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, June 28 from 9AM- 4PM each day. The event will feature aircraft on display, musical entertainment, souvenirs, and local Maryland food vendors. The weekend activities offer fun for families and exhibits that highlight Maryland’s rich aviation history.
The Martin State Airport open house and festival will also provide special opportunities for the public to see the airshow and flyover aircraft and aviators. See the Blue Angels take off and land, and maybe meet a pilot! Aircraft will depart and arrive at Martin State Airport throughout the weekend. The best place to see the aircraft up close will be at the airport.
The gates to Martin State Airport at 701 Wilson Point Road, Middle River, MD 21220 open to the public at 9AM on both Saturday and Sunday, with aircraft displays starting at 10AM. Free off-airport parking and shuttle bus service will be provided to and from the open house and festival. The public should look for parking information along Eastern Blvd as well as MD-43, near the airport.
Airport visitors will be required to pass through security screening to access the aircraft displays on the airport tarmac. The airport gates will close each day at 4PM.
AT BALTIMORE PENINSULA: Friday, June 26 from 2pm-9pm, Saturday, June 27 from 11am to 9pm and Sunday, June 28 from 11am to 4pm. Festival activities will take place on and around Baltimore Península near 225 E Cromwell St, Baltimore, MD 21230. Visiting ships will be berthed at the Baltimore Peninsula Pier and other close by locations.
Where Are Public Restrooms Located At The Inner Harbor?
Portable restrooms will be located on the north end and south end of West Shore Park at 401 Light Street, on USS Constellation Dock, and on Pier 5.
Where Are Public Restrooms Located At Falls Point?
Locations coming soon.
Where Are Public Restrooms Located At Baltimore Peninsula?
Locations coming soon.
Where Are Public Restrooms Located At Martin State Airport?
Locations coming soon.
Where Are Public Restrooms Located At Fort McHenry?
SAIL250 Maryland will have portable restrooms located on the grounds of Fort McHenry and the historic site’s Visitor Center also has restroom facilities.
Parking
Where Should I Park At The Inner Harbor?
There are several parking garages located in downtown Baltimore and around the Inner Harbor. Please be prepared to pay for parking. Metered street parking is available but very limited. Consider using the Light Rail, the free Charm City Circulator, and other public transportation options.
Where Should I Park At Fells Point?
There are parking garages located in Fells Point. Please be prepared to pay for parking. Metered street parking is available but is very limited. Consider using the free Charm City Circulator and other public transportation options.
Where Should I Park At Baltimore Peninsula?
There are parking garages located in Baltimore Peninsula. Please be prepared to pay for parking. Metered street parking is available but is very limited. Consider using the free Charm City Circulator and other public transportation options.
Where Should I Park At Locust Point and Fort McHenry?
Parking is extremely limited in Locust Point and there will be no public parking at Fort McHenry. Consider using the free Charm City Circulator and other public transportation options like the MTA #94 bus.
Where Should I Park At Martin State Airport?
Parking is available at satallite lots located near the airport and there is free shuttle service from the satellite lots. Martin State Airport Shuttle Buses stop at Lockheed Martin parking lot on Eastern Boulevard in Middle River, MD 21220 to Martin State Airport at 701 Wilson Point Road, Middle River, MD 21220. Additional stop at satellite parking lot at 11572 Crossroads Circle, Middle River, MD 21220 if needed. Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, June 28 from 9AM to 5PM.
Public Transportation
Are There Shuttle Buses To Ship Locations?
SAIL250® Maryland and Airshow Baltimore stongly recommends using the Charm City Circulator, a FREE bus service, for accessing ship locations. The Purple “Banner Route” Busses depart approximately every 20 minutes from the Baltimore Visitor Center on Light Street to North Locust Point ships, and the Orange Route departs approximately every 20 minutes from the Harborplace Pratt Street Pavilion to Fells Point. For more information visit the Circulator Website: HTTPS://TRANSPORTATION.BALTIMORECITY.GOV/CHARM-CITY-CIRCULATOR.
Is Public Transportation Available Around Baltimore?
Yes, MTA buses, Light Rail Link, and Metro Subway Link are available. For schedules, visit the website WWW.MTA.MARYLAND.GOV.
The Charm City Circulator buses operate in Baltimore as well. For schedules, visit HTTPS://TRANSPORTATION.BALTIMORECITY.GOV/CHARM-CITY-CIRCULATOR.
The MARC Train Station is just STEPS away at 301 W. Camden Street near Oriole Park at Camden Yards. For info, visit HTTPS://WWW.MTA.MARYLAND.GOV/SCHEDULE/MARC-CAMDEN.
To enjoy travel around the Inner Harbor by water, the Baltimore Water Taxi operates a regular schedule from the Inner Harbor, Fells Point, Canton Waterfront Park, and other stops. For info, visit WWW.BALTIMOREWATERTAXI.COM.
What Other Sights And Attractions Can I Experience While I'm In Baltimore?
Baltimore is a city rich with history and culture, an array of world-class museums and attractions, a topnotch culinary scene, and an impressive selection of hotels. Our many one-of-a-kind neighborhoods – which continue to expand with the opening of restaurants, shops, cafes, and more – as well as an exciting calendar of annual events, bring enjoyment to people of all ages. In Baltimore, you can honor the past while enjoying endless opportunities to explore, learn and have fun. For centuries, Baltimore has played a significant role in our nation’s history. Many of our museums and attractions paint a spectacular picture of how Baltimore has helped shape America through exhibits, special programs and events, interactive activities and “hands-on” history. HISTORIC SHIPS IN BALTIMORE, located at the Inner Harbor, features the Sloop-of-War USS CONSTELLATION, the last all-sail warship built by the US Navy, the US Submarine TORSK, which sank the last two enemy combatants in the Pacific at the end of WWII, and the US Coast Guard Cutter WHEC-37, the last surviving warship to witness the 1945 attack on Pearl Harbor. FORT MCHENRY NATIONAL MONUMENT AND HISTORIC SHRINE is the “birthplace of our national anthem”. Other sites you will only find in Baltimore include the B&O RAILROAD MUSEUM, which contains the country’s oldest and most comprehensive collection of American railroad artifacts and the MARYLAND CENTER FOR HISTORY AND CULTURE, which houses the original manuscript of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Adventure seekers can climb the WASHINGTON MONUMENT located in the Mount Vernon neighborhood, the nation’s very first monument dedicated to our first President, or take a walking tour along the STAR-SPANGLED BANNER NATIONAL HISTORIC TRAIL or THE BALTIMORE CIVIL WAR TRAIL. Baltimore has a celebrated African American history as well, which can be explored at the REGINALD F. LEWIS MUSEUM OF MARYLAND AFRICAN HISTORY & CULTURE, the largest African American museum on the East Coast, the NATIONAL GREAT BLACKS IN WAX MUSEUM, the only wax museum of its kind in the country, and the FREDERICK DOUGLASS-ISAAC MYERS MARITIME PARK MUSEUM, which recounts the history of these two influential men and the nation’s first black-owned shipyard; and more. In addition to our rich historical attractions and museums, the whole family can enjoy other spectacular Baltimore institutions including the NATIONAL AQUARIUM, the MARYLAND SCIENCE CENTER, the free BALTIMORE MUSEUM OF ART and THE WALTERS ART MUSEUM, the MARYLAND ZOO IN BALTIMORE, PORT DISCOVERY CHILDREN’S MUSEUM and many more. Afterwards, stop at one of our renowned restaurants for a great meal or stroll and shop in any of our charming neighborhoods. A visit to Baltimore is sure to be full of fun and excitement and an experience that is not only one-of-a-kind, but memorable, too.