5 Things You Need to Know if You’re Going to See the Tall Ships in Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

The Tall Ships are coming back to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, according to sailportsmouth.org.   This event attracts a lot of people from the Seacoast and throughout the region.  Here are a few things you should know before you go.

The event starts with the Parade of Sail on Friday, July 26, from 9am to 11:30am.  That event is free for all.

Where to Park?

The Ships themselves will be coming into port at 555 Market Street.  If you know that specific area, you know that parking can sometimes be challenging, depending on the day.  You might want to park in one of the huge parking garages across the street, then walk to see the ships.

Where is the Best Place to Watch the Parade of Sail?

The best places to watch the Parade of Sail, according to a 2022 article from Seacoast Current, is Fort McClary State Historic Site on Pepperell Road in Kittery.  There is a fee to enter the park, but it's a beautiful place and you'll get a good view.  New Castle Commons is a great place to see the ships before they come into Portsmouth.  That's the starting off point.  Four Tree Island and the Memorial Bridge are great viewing spots as well.

Will They Will Fire Cannons?

Yes. Some locations, including Fort McClary and the Portsmouth and Kittery Point Yacht Clubs, fire cannons during the Parade of Sail.  If the ship has a cannon, they will fire back (it's just the noise, they're not actually firing at each other).  You might want to be aware of the noise if you have sensitive kids or dogs (remember the 4th of July?).

Wanna Take a Tour of the Ships?

If you are looking to tour the ships, you can do that on Saturday, July 27, and Sunday, July 28, 2024

Wanna Sail on One of the Ships?

If you are looking to sail the ships, there are various days and times to do that on July 25 through July 28, 2024.

Volunteers are the backbone of this event, according to Sailportsmouth.org.  Training is scheduled for July 14, 2024.  If it's too late this year for you, you might want to consider it for next time.  Volunteers are always needed for a myriad of things, but mostly to ensure that the event runs smoothly.

Have you ever seen these ships up close?