Military allies, historic tall ships converge on New Jersey shores to launch America 250 celebrations

An international fleet of tall ships arrived on the shores of New Jersey Friday to mark a once-in-a-generation celebration of America’s Semiquincentennial.

Organizers and officials gathered in Sandy Hook to outline the scope of the historic "Sail 4th 250" tribute.

"Nearly 250 years ago, it was here at Sandy Hook that George Washington's army drove the British from New Jersey," said Gov. Mikie Sherrill, a former naval officer. "It was from this day that the last British ships of the Revolutionary War departed."

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The site is also home to the country's oldest continuously lit lighthouse, which has guided maritime navigators since 1764.

The area is now preserved as part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, a 27,000-acre national park spanning New York and New Jersey that welcomes more than 9 million visitors annually.

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Roughly 20 nations have dispatched their premier tall ships to participate in the celebration, with vessels arriving from as far away as Italy, India, Peru, Poland, Spain and Sweden.

The legendary U.S. Coast Guard cutter Eagle, which was acquired as a war reparation from Nazi Germany, will lead the official parade of ships. 

It is the only active square-rigged sailing vessel in federal service, and has been sailed by every Coast Guard Academy cadet.

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Sherrill said the presence of the international crews represents something far deeper than a simple tourist attraction, noting the event is a testament to the strength of global security alliances.

"America never fights alone because we fight alongside our friends and allies," Sherrill said. "Today, it's a joy to be here, to celebrate with all of our allies and friends."

Planning for the monumental maritime review has been underway since April 2020, when organizers first began coordinating with foreign military attachés, according to Christopher O'Brien, president of Sail 4th 250.

The main festivities will kick off Saturday morning and will include the Tall Ships Parade, International Naval Review and a coordinated International Aerial Review.

"Fifty years ago, people lined the Hudson to cheer [on] hundreds of ships from around the world," Sherrill said, referring to the country’s 1976 Bicentennial celebration. "This week, millions will turn out again for another massive boat parade, united by a shared love of country, pride in our history and hope for the future."