Sail250® Virginia and America’s 250th Anniversary

Welcome to Norfolk, Virginia for your Sail250® Virginia experience. This global gathering of tall ships and military vessels was created to kick off the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States. It will offer crews, cadets and visitors from around the world to experience a world-class maritime celebration. Tonight, meet your Tour Manager and traveling companions at 6:00 p.m. for a welcome dinner. Meal: D

Begin the day at the Norfolk Botanical Garden, Virginia’s premier nature experience. From its humble beginnings the garden has grown to a 175-acre garden filled with thousands of blooming flowers and plants. Visit the more than 60 themed and formal gardens, natural areas and breathtaking landscapes. Then, make a stop at the General Douglas MacArthur Memorial before climbing aboard the Hampton Queen for a narrated cruise of Hampton Harbor. With over 20 points of interest and over 400 years of history from the founding of Jamestown in 1607 to current Norfolk Naval Base, the cruise is filled with history. Some highlights of the tour include Virginia Air & Space Science Center, Fort Monroe, Old Point Comfort Lighthouse and possibly even some dolphin sightings. Meals: B, L

Travel to Fort Monroe this morning to take your reserved spots to witness the incredible Sail250® Virgina’s “Parade of Sail.” Sit back, relax while taking in this milestone occasion. Witness the sailing of a fleet of the world’s most magnificent international tall ships and military ships in an epic peacetime gathering. Norfolk is a selected gathering port for more than 55 ships from 20 nations. Numerous food trucks will be available for you to have lunch. Then, explore the history and significance of Fort Monroe, a National Historic Landmark, whose history spans 400 years. Later, visit the Virginia Air and Space Center whose permanent collection spans 100 years of flight, featured over 30 historic aircraft and the Apollo 12 Command Module. Meals: B, D

Begin the day at Sail250® Virginia with a closeup look at the celebration’s many vessels before the ships open to the public. Take time to stroll among the tall ships, costumed characters and military vessels, shop among the many festival vendors and enjoy the demonstrations and live entertainment. Then, visit Nauticus, the maritime discovery center where you will immerse yourself in the world of sailing and the U. S. Navy. Interactive exhibits, the sailing center and the Schooner Virginia tell the story of the maritime environment, industry and the military. Step aboard the Battleship Wisconsin, the largest and last battleship ever built by the U. S. and lets its decks tell the story of the vessel’s five-star battles during WWII. Tonight, your Tour Manager hosts a special farewell dinner at a local favorite restaurant. Meals: B, D

Bid a fond farewell to Sail250® Virginia with a group transfer to Norfolk’s International Airport for flights out after 12:00 p.m. Meal: B