KEYPORT SAILING FIELD GUIDE
Front-Row Seats to History: The International Tall Ships Parade!
A daylight cruise from Keyport aboard the Keyport Princess to watch 25+ international tall ships sail past New York’s skyline; this guide tells you what to expect and what to bring.
Front-Row Seats to History: The International Tall Ships Parade!.
On the afternoon before July 4th, the Keyport Princess departs Keyport for a six-hour daylight cruise that puts you within sight of more than 25 international tall ships as they descend the East River, pass under the city’s bridges and gather in the harbor against the Manhattan skyline.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
The Class B Parade—25+ Traditionally Rigged Ships
Be among the first to welcome the global fleet: the Class B parade features over 25 traditionally rigged, working tall ships from around the world—a rare chance to see a forest of masts and classic sail handling up close.
The East River Descent with a Skyline Backdrop
The parade sails down from the Hell Gate Bridge, past the United Nations and under the Brooklyn Bridge; watching historic spars and rigging set against modern glass is a view that only the water can deliver.
Anchoring in Gravesend Bay and Near the Statue of Liberty
As the ships reach their anchorages toward Gravesend Bay and the Statue of Liberty, they drop anchor and prepare for the holiday—transforming the harbor into a calm, awe-inspiring assembly of international vessels.
What the day feels like
What the Cruise Feels Like
It’s a relaxed, daylight outing: board in Keyport mid-morning, head north into Raritan Bay and the harbor, then take up a viewing position as the parade moves through the East River. Expect a slow-sail pace for long viewing windows, time for photography, and an afternoon harbor pass before returning to Keyport in the early evening.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this cruise suits best—and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The cruise is a six-hour daytime outing; boarding is mid-morning with a return to Keyport in the early evening.
Bring sunscreen, hats and sunglasses; pack a lunch and snacks; alcohol is allowed but there is a strict no-glass policy (use cans or plastic); many guests bring cushions or blankets for deck seating; binoculars and cameras are recommended.
Boarding takes place in Keyport at 10:30 AM aboard the Keyport Princess operated by Northeast Fishing LLC; departure toward New York Harbor follows at 11:30 AM.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the cruise?
The cruise is six hours in total.
When and where do we board?
Boarding is at 10:30 AM in Keyport; the Keyport Princess departs north toward New York Harbor at 11:30 AM.
What part of the parade will we see?
You’ll take up a viewing position to watch the Class B ships sail down from the Hell Gate Bridge, past the UN and under the Brooklyn Bridge, and then see them anchor near Gravesend Bay and the Statue of Liberty.
Can I bring food and drink?
Yes—pack a lunch and snacks. Alcohol is allowed but the operator enforces a strict no-glass policy, so bring cans or plastic containers only.
Is this a good trip for photographers?
Yes—this daylight cruise offers 360-degree views and unobstructed photo opportunities of tall ships against the Manhattan skyline.
What should I bring for comfort on deck?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and consider cushions or blankets for deck seating; binoculars and a camera will enhance viewing.