06/14/2026
Sails are going up in less than one month for Sail Boston’s tall fleet of ships, which will find 60 beautiful sail boats, including the iconic USS Constitution, harboring in and around Boston and Charlestown. Mark your calendars, grab you sunblock, and head to the harbor beginning July 11th!
The USS Constitution, known as “Old Ironsides,” is the world’s oldest commissioned warship still afloat. Built in 1797 as one of the first six ships of the United States Navy, she was designed to protect American trade and interests around the world. The ship became famous during the War of 1812 when her strong wooden hull helped her defeat British warships, earning her legendary nickname after sailors noticed enemy cannonballs appeared to bounce off her sides.
Throughout her history, the USS Constitution served in diplomatic missions, anti-slavery patrols, and as a training ship for Navy officers. Saved from scrapping in 1830 after the poem Old Ironsides inspired public support, she remains an important symbol of American naval history. Today, she is docked in Boston, Massachusetts, where visitors can tour the ship for free and learn about more than 225 years of history. She will also be one of more than 60 Tall Ships participating in Sail250.
