Next year, the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary. Just as occurred for the 200th anniversary, thousands of tall ships, boats, and yachts will gather in New York Harbor. In fact, New York City will be the epicenter of the national observance events, a.k.a. Sail4th 250. Coinciding with this, the International SeaKeepers Society is hosting a gala. SeaKeepers’ Sail4th 250 ocean advocacy event will gather global leaders in ocean conservation and preservation, alongside yacht and superyacht owners who support their efforts.
Set for July 3, 2026, the gala takes place in the historic Cunard Building (below) in New York’s Financial District. Holding landmark status, the Cunard Building, dating to 1922, derives its name from its first owner and occupant, the premier transatlantic passenger-ship company. The Cunard Building has beautifully preserved nautical design particularly throughout its Great Hall, with a vaulted ceiling. All the more fitting, the physical location of the building has been associated with shipping and maritime travel since the 1600s.
Additionally, the Cunard Building is in proximity to three marinas where megayacht owners plan to dock. SeaKeepers is arranging shuttles from South Cove Marina, North Cove Marina, and Pier 11 for guests’ convenience, too.
Notably, on July 4, SeaKeepers’ Sail4th 250 ocean advocacy event festivities continue. Guests can participate in a yacht hop aboard six yachts and superyachts. Throughout the day, until the evening fireworks display over New York Harbor, attendees can explore their decks. Simultaneously, they can take in some of the best views of the dozens of tall ships that will be commemorating the country’s milestone moment. Specifically, organizers of Sail4th 250 expect more than 30 tall ships and naval vessels. It will be the most since the 200th anniversary celebration in 1986. Furthermore, they anticipate upwards of 50,000 boats, vessels, and yachts to spread out across the harbor.
Although the anniversary doesn’t overlap one for SeaKeepers itself, the non-profit has come a long way. It began in Monaco in 1998, with a handful of yacht owners. Initially, it was a yacht-based data program, involving the collection of scientific information. Currently, the organization has direct relationships with scientists and other ocean-advocacy groups. It connects thousands, from superyacht owners and guests to schoolchildren, to at-sea and coastal programs.
Preferred seating is currently available for SeaKeepers’ Sail4th 250 ocean advocacy event, through December 31.
International SeaKeepers Society seakeepers.org